Teaching in focus: Shelina Babul

Name:

Shelina Babul

My pronouns:

she/her

Title:

Clinical Professor/Associate Director

Faculty/Department/Unit:

Medicine/Pediatrics/BC Injury Research and Prevention Unit

Location:

Vancouver

Year I started working at UBC:

1996

What first motivated you to become an educator?

When I completed my PhD in Exercise Physiology in 2001, I was already working as a researcher at the BC Injury Research and Prevention Unit. The Injury Unit has a long history of engaging and mentoring students from diverse backgrounds. Having benefited so much from my instructors and mentors over the years, I knew that I wanted to give back and provide this type of support to the next generation of students.

Tell us more about your work.

As the Associate Director at the BCIRPU, I provide leadership for injury prevention efforts in British Columbia to ensure the safety of British Columbians. My concussion program of research has a strong knowledge translation component – translating “research to action”. My work includes recognition, diagnosis, treatment, management, and prevention. The science around concussions is constantly changing. I work with many key partners to ensure all audiences have access to up-to-date evidence-based information.

What inspired your particular approach to teaching?

I have received a lot of support and encouragement that has shaped how I approach new challenges. I feel fulfilled when I see how I can influence others to think about injury prevention, and our common goal to keep everyone safe. I am excited about making connections with my students and learning about their aspirations. I understand the pressures students are under to build their experience and CVs, and do my best to support them.

What have you learned while teaching that has surprised you the most?

I have learned that teaching involves constantly updating and revising my teaching content and style to ensure it is relevant and up-to-date. Curricula and presentations need to be engaging for the students and need constant "hooks" to ensure they are able to comprehend the content.

What impact do you hope to have on your students?

I want to inspire others to discover their interests, and to shape their education and future careers in ways that are meaningful to them. I want them to know that their career path and trajectory are important and valued and my goal is to ensure whatever they are involved with, has a benefit to them.

Are there any colleagues or mentors you’d like to acknowledge and why?

Dr. Jack Taunton has been my mentor and colleague for well over 20 years. His passion for teaching, coupled with the innovative work being done in sports medicine, inspired me to pursue my PhD. He strives for excellence in everything he does, and encourages everyone to do the same. It amazes me how much he has accomplished, and how he collaborates to raise others up. I continue to learn from his wisdom, knowledge, and insight!