E74: Lethbridge City Scholars — Building Stronger Bridges Between Campus and Community

E74: Lethbridge City Scholars — Building Stronger Bridges Between Campus and Community

From Learning Innovation: The Teaching & Learning Podcast by learninginnovation

January 6, 2026 · 47 min · Episode 74

About this episode

The episode discusses the benefits of Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) for students and communities, featuring insights from Dr. Natalie Barfuss and Perry Stein.

"We know WIL has this really magical ability to create a stronger connection between students and this community." ~ Perry Stein, City of Lethbridge Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships Manager Dr. Natalie Barfuss (business instructor at Lethbridge Polytechnic) and Perry Stein (Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships Manager at the City of Lethbridge) share the overwhelming benefits of WIL for students and their communities. Work-integrated learning (WIL) helps students develop skills like teamwork, collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking. These real-world skills help students step out more confidently into their careers. Because WIL allows students a glimpse into the community, these experiences can even kindle an interest in staying around Lethbridge after graduation. Natalie also shares how instructors can dip their toes in WIL experiences. Hint—it's easier than you think! During the show, Perry, Natalie, and Donna (host) mention: ☀️SUMMER BONUS☀️ E58: LITL-Pod LIVE – Preparing learners and shaping community through Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Lethbridge Polytechnic REB Bachelor of Nursing Trades & Technologies School of Business University of Lethbridge…

People in this episode

Host: Donna

Guests: Dr. Natalie Barfuss, Perry Stein

Topics covered

  • Work-Integrated Learning
  • Community Engagement
  • Student Development
  • Career Readiness
  • Higher Education
  • Collaboration

Keywords

  • Work-Integrated Learning
  • student skills
  • community connection
  • career development
  • Lethbridge
  • education
  • collaboration

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Lethbridge Polytechnic, City of Lethbridge, University of Lethbridge, Mitacs, University of Calgary, NorQuest College, WIL Symposium, CASA, Downtown BRZ, Universal Design for Learning

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