Karyn Gagnon
WINNIPEG, MB– There are one billion active Facebook users around the globe who are constantly communicating — but is anyone listening? This is the question that Karyn Gagnon, UWinnipeg alum and middle years teacher, will address tomorrow at the Winnipeg Art Gallery as part of TEDx Winnipeg, an independently-organized TED event.
Gagnon’s TEDx Talk resulted from a new graduate-level course offered through UWinnipeg’s Faculty of Education. Taught by Dr. Jan Stewart, the course explores theories and practical examples of global education, peace education, social justice and sustainable education in post-conflict situations and fragile states.
“A course requirement is to watch specified TED Talks related to the theme and then prepare an online discussion, explains Dr. Stewart, Acting Associate Dean and Associate Professor of Education. “Students presented a ‘Ted Talk Junior’ on the final day of class, which was attended by TEDx Winnipeg. The students selected the best talk, which was chosen to be in the event.”
Gagnon has a long-standing philosophy that joy can be found in any situation and that laughter should always be heard. A UWinnipeg Bachelor of Education graduate, Gagnon is currently working towards her Post Baccalaureate in Education for Sustainability at her alma mater. She has taught in Thompson, Winnipeg and Thailand, which has broadened her ideologies about education and its connection to social justice. She has also visited more than 35 countries, which has opened her eyes to the uniting force of storytelling and helped her appreciate other cultures.
“I cannot help but recognize how connected this event is to my philosophies of education and learning as a whole,” says Gagnon. “My hope is that the simplicity of my talk will stimulate fresh perspectives, invigorate the potential of a story and mostly, remind us all to listen.”
TED is a non-profit devoted to Ideas Worth Spreading. It started out in 1984 as a conference bringing together people from three worlds: technology, entertainment, and design. It has since broadened in scope to include world class speakers who believe in the power of ideas to change attitudes, lives and ultimately, the world. Learn more about TEDx Winnipeg at tedxwinnipeg.ca
