Program Overview

Global Learning, Intercultural Development and Engagement Certificate

The Global Learning, Intercultural Development, and Engagement (GLIDE) certificate is designed to enhance intercultural skills, offer flexible learning options, and allow students to contribute to global goals while fitting seamlessly into their existing schedule. GLIDE is designed with inclusivity, accessibility, and flexibility in mind, making it perfect for any graduate or undergraduate, domestic or international student at the University of Waterloo.

What is GLIDE?

GLIDE enhances intercultural skills, offers flexible learning options, and allows students to contribute to global goals. The certificate is designed to be completed at the student's own pace, accommodating unique timelines and schedules. No international travel is required, though experiences like exchanges or co-ops can count towards the requirements.

Why should I register for GLIDE?

Understanding and appreciating diverse cultures is essential in today's world. Intercultural competence fosters empathy, effective communication, and enhances critical-thinking skills and personal growth. By connecting intercultural and academic learning, students gain a competitive edge and enrich their educational experience.

The GLIDE program is flexible

GLIDE allows students to complete the components at their own pace, accommodating their unique timelines and schedules. No international travel is required, though experiences like exchanges or co-ops can count towards the requirements. GLIDE fits seamlessly into the existing schedule with no extra courses or costs involved.

How can I get a GLIDE certificate?

To obtain a GLIDE certificate, students must complete the following components:

1. UNDERSTAND: Start this component as soon as registered for GLIDE. Choose one of the three options and follow up:

• Option 1: Attend two virtual foundation workshops, complete the PebblePad activities, and three interactions from the AICC modules.
• Option 2: Attend one virtual foundation workshop, complete the PebblePad activities, and one full AICC module.
• Option 3: For students going on exchange, attend IC4E Touchpoint 1 and Touchpoint 3 sessions, complete the PebblePad activities, and three interactions from the AICC modules.

2. ENGAGE: Start this component any time after registering for GLIDE and complete the PebblePad activities:

• Option 1: Engage in 20 hours of volunteering programs at the university and 10 hours of volunteering outside the university with multicultural groups.
• Option 2: For international students, engage in 10 hours of volunteering programs at the university or volunteer with local organizations.
• Option 3: For students on exchange or international co-op, engage in 10 hours of volunteering programs at the university or volunteer with local organizations.
• Option 4: Participate in a 10-day service-learning program in Peru through SJU and engage in 10 hours of programs at the university or volunteer with local organizations.

3. EXPAND: Start this component any time after registering for GLIDE:

• Participate in a minimum of three events organized by the university and submit the follow-up interactive activities in PebblePad.
• Eligible Events: Should involve global and local contexts, promote cultural appreciation, recognize different experiences, address challenges, and can directly connect to the program.

4. SHOWCASE: Create an ePortfolio to showcase intercultural skills and achievements. This highlights growth, reflects on intercultural awareness, develops learning strategies, and expresses skills. Choose between two content options and use the PebblePad guide provided to create the ePortfolio. The ePortfolio can be taken after graduation and linked to a CV or LinkedIn profile.