Teaching in focus: Elly Park
Learn more about the work of our educators at UBC
August 21, 2023
Name:
Elly Park
My pronouns:
She/her
Title:
Assistant Professor of Teaching
Faculty/Department/Unit:
Faculty of Medicine – Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy
Location:
Prince George, University of Northern British Columbia
Year I started working at UBC:
2021
What first motivated you to become an educator?
During my post-graduate studies I had the opportunity to teach while completing my research. My passion in social justice really aligned with my teaching approach which underscores the value of experiential learning. As I worked with students in the occupational therapy program at the University of Alberta, I felt grateful for the opportunity not only to teach, but also to learn from students. I knew I found my dream career and haven't looked back!
Tell us more about your work.
Our program has expanded and will have additional sites in the near future. I am located in Prince George, at UNBC, where the first cohort began in 2022 as part of the OSOT program with UBC. I work with students locally, and also connect with faculty and students at the Point Grey campus through video conferencing. It has been a year of creative problem solving, deep reflection, and growth.
What inspired your particular approach to teaching?
As I mentioned, I am a proponent of experiential learning. I believe the deepest impact comes from doing, and hearing about others' experiences. Being in a distributed site has added layers of complexity as we seek ways to incorporate high touch teaching. We also need to consider the contextual differences that shape and impact our learning. I am trying to use technology and teaching experiences to stay true to my teaching values.
What have you learned while teaching that has surprised you the most?
I have learned that vulnerability and humility are my greatest strengths. I have so much to learn - from students and colleagues and I am grateful for the incredible opportunities I have had. I also continue to realize the importance of considering others' perspectives. I learned that creating spaces where students are encouraged to share and be vulnerable can lead to powerful insights and understanding, and students welcome these spaces!
What impact do you hope to have on your students?
I hope to share my passions with them; I think relationships are the foundation of learning and healthcare. We need to develop skills and knowledge to work with patients but without the relationship, our efforts are futile. Students have their own unique perspectives that I will encourage them to value and embrace- and I hope through my interactions with them, they can grow their strengths and confidence to be competent and compassionate clinicians.
Are there any colleagues or mentors you’d like to acknowledge and why?
I have had so many wonderful, supportive colleagues at UBC. I have worked closely with Katie Lee Bunting, who has inspired and motivated me to aspire for greater things. My mentor, Laura Nimmons, has been a gentle and loving support as I learn and grow in my position. Elisha Williams, my colleague in Prince George, is who I commiserate and collaborate with as we go through the growing pains of developing a distributed site.
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