Students from the Early Childhood Education program were visited by
dollmaker Rose Moses for a lesson on Indigenous doll making. While this activity helps practice fine motor skills, the Indigenization elements are part of the curriculum to incorporate Indigenous knowledge into classroom learning.
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Online educational games are big business, but also a fun way for children to
learn about important issues. A recent competition hosted by the Ingenium Innovation Lab has greenlit the creativity and passion of a group of Algonquin College students to create a fun and educational product for young learners.
Their product, Artifice, is a climate action themed educational game, and was recently awarded $15,000 along with dedicated funding and mentorship to further develop the proof-of-concept into a marketable, educational product for youth. The game will be available to the public in 2024. Continue reading
Two graduates from Algonquin College’s Paramedic program have received the inaugural Ontario Medal for Paramedic Bravery, which recognizes and honours exceptional courage in the line of duty.
Kimberley Fitzsimmons, a primary care paramedic with the Frontenac Paramedic Services, received the award in honour of her actions on Aug. 2, 2022. The off-duty Fitzsimmons had just finished a swim in Lake Ontario when she noticed another swimmer struggling to stay afloat. When the man sank beneath the water, Fitzsimmons dove 15 feet to rescue him from the bottom of the lake. She brought him back to shore and gave the man life-saving CPR, continuing to do so until help arrived.
Ottawa paramedic Maciej Wisniewski was honoured for his efforts following a plane crash near Carp Airport on Sept. 4, 2021. He was called to the scene after a passenger plane carrying two people crashed in a field after hitting a hydro pole. Alongside his partner and with the help of bystanders, Wisniewski worked to overturn the downed plane and free the trapped occupants, who were fuel-soaked and suffering extensive injuries. The rescued passengers were then sent to hospital to be treated for their injuries.
In both scenarios, the pivotal and timely efforts of Algonquin College graduates prevented terrible tragedies. The actions of Fitzsimmons and Wisniewski serve as a testament to both the rigorous and high-calibre training found in the AC Paramedic program and to the overall quality of Algonquin College. We are incredibly proud of these brave graduates and the courageous work being done by all AC alumni who work to preserve and strengthen public safety.