For some years now, the University of Ottawa has welcomed many students from sub-Saharan Africa into the Faculty of Education. Although most of them succeed in their practicums, the current literature on this topic focuses mainly on the problems they encounter. In light of this, Allison Gagné, who holds a MA from the Faculty of Education, decided to conduct a study that would highlight the positive experiences of these teachers in training.
Allison’s research underscores the highly complex nature of the practicum experience, which is influenced by the sense of vulnerability that occurs when trainees try to negotiate the various interpretations that arise in their interactions with the teachers mentoring them.
“I am very proud of my journey through graduate studies, but most of all, I am grateful to have joined a Francophone community whose diversity and openness really shines.”
Allison Gagné
— MA graduate ("23)
“There are many words to describe my path to earning a master’s degree at uOttawa: videoconferences, perseverance, success, discouragement ... but I think that the only one I will really take away is: community. During the upheaval of leaving home to attend university, followed by dozens of online meetings and courses, and then a return to my native city, I have met some extraordinary people who have helped me to realize my full potential. Meeting these people has opened the door to a world of opportunities. I am very proud of my journey through graduate studies, but most of all, I am grateful to have joined a Francophone community whose diversity and openness really shines. And I think that I have succeeded in contributing to it in my own way,” said Allison Gagné.
In addition to her research, Allison Gagné has made other significant contributions to the University community. She co-edited the first entirely Francophone journal published by the Faculty of Education, a testimony to her commitment to promoting the French language and linguistic diversity. In recognition of her achievements, Allison was awarded a SSHRC grant, which she accepted. She has also worked with GACRAN on creating an anti-racism podcast, pamphlet and video. Allison has also helped to organise and run a number of events with the GaCran group, including 'Briser le code' round table.
- Find out more about Allison Gagné's thesis: The teacher training experience of two sub-Saharan African students new to Canada
- Discover Allison Gagné's achievements on Becoming an ally of black people