Everyone communicates, but are they doing it well? Communicative competence takes practice and self-awareness. In this foundational course, students will learn through discovery and project-based activities to practice approaching situations critically and collaboratively. By developing their communication skills, students will improve their interpersonal ability, intercultural competence, and digital fluency to prepare for success in the workplace and beyond. The strategies students will gain in this course will be useful throughout their program and in their chosen industry.
Skills in mathematics and measurement are essential in trades. In this course, students will focus on enhancing and/or developing the foundational mathematical abilities and problem-solving skills required to enter into the trades field. A wide-scoped approach is taken in mathematical topics to set students up for success in any field they wish to pursue. Topics include arithmetic, fractions, algebra, ratio and proportion, scientific calculators, measurement (metric and imperial), unit conversions, trigonometry, and geometry. An Indigenous perspective will be taken within the classroom through collaboration and knowledge sharing in assignments and activities.
Science is integral to every trade. This course provides students with a working knowledge of scientific topics that directly affect the trades. Students will explore the principles of mechanics, gas laws, thermodynamics and electricity in relation to the safe operation of tools/equipment. Science in the trades also translates to innovation in the field. Innovation, through an Indigenous perspective, will provide students the opportunity to conduct research into past, present, or future innovation in their field of interest through a self-directed research project.
In the trades, a wide range of tools and technical documents are used. Incorporating Indigenous perspectives and practices, this course will introduce students to common hand and power tools, including their proper usage, maintenance, and safe handling. Students will also explore the use of measurement and layout tools and learn how to interpret the basic drawings and documents used in various trades. Through experiential learning, students will engage in hands-on projects guided by experienced Red Seal instructors in fields such as Plumbing, Refrigeration, Carpentry, Electrical, and Automotive, among others. Students will showcase their readiness for further studies or entry into the trades workforce by documenting their learning and projects in professional portfolios.