Recognizing great teaching in the Geology Department

Posted: June 24, 2015 4:00 p.m.

Dr. Janis Dale, “IceMaiden, Durt Girl and Teacher Extraordinaire” in the Department of Geology, has been honoured with an Award for Excellence in Teaching by the University of Regina Alumni Association.

Dr. Dale has been an enthusiastic and committed teacher in the Department of Geology since 1993, and she is known for skillfully combining classroom and experiential learning.

Over her 21 years of teaching at the University of Regina, Dr. Dale has taught 13 different undergraduate classes, eight different graduate classes, and a field school.

Her enrolments have ranged from four to over 270 students per class. Dr. Dale has always taught her own laboratory sections for her 200, 300 and 400 level classes, demonstrating a keen understanding that laboratory work is integral to properly instructing students in the subject matter.

Dr. Thomas Chase, Provost and Vice-President (Academic), remarked that the University is proud of Dr. Dale’s accomplishment.

“Teaching is the backbone of our university. It provides students with the knowledge and skills they need in order to lead successful careers, contribute to the economy, and shape our communities. We could not be more thankful for Dr. Dale’s ongoing commitment to her students and her instruction in the classroom, lab and field.”

Dr. Dale’s students consistently note several characteristics that make her an exceptional teacher. She knows her subject matter intimately, and this mastery of knowledge is evident in the classroom, laboratory and field.

She emphasizes experiential learning, demonstrating an understanding that a strong geoscientist must be able to apply his or her knowledge in many settings. But more than anything, Dr. Dale exudes enthusiasm, both for the subject matter and for her role as an instructor. Students find her energy infectious and inspiring, and they know that she cares deeply about their academic success.

The University of Regina and the University of Regina of Alumni Association have collaborated since 1990 to celebrate the achievements of our most accomplished faculty in the areas of teaching, research, service and graduate research mentorship.

For more information on the awards and each of the recipients, please visit www.uregina.ca/external/alumni-relations.