TMU French Language and Translation students develop skills through community engagement and experiential learning
In an era demanding adaptability and empathy, educators are continually seeking innovative approaches to enhance student learning experience and community engagement. Two recent examples of courses at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) with strong experiential learning and community engagement components are FRE 504: French Audiovisual Translation and FRE 607: English-French Translation II. In 2024, students in these two courses, both taught by Professor Julián Zapata from the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures, went beyond traditional classroom boundaries to engage in meaningful community partnerships. These initiatives, developed in collaboration with Reena Tandon from the Community-Engaged Learning and Teaching office, not only helped students solidify language skills but also promoted a profound sense of engagement regarding understanding of complex societal issues.
In both courses, students were partnered with non-profit organizations, allowing them to practise their language skills in real-world contexts.
Since 2023, French language and translation students at TMU have benefited from an array of experiential and community engaged learning opportunities: video game localization lectures at The Gaming Hub, professional simulations at the Active Learning Classroom, participating in Translation Games, world premieres of French-language films at TIFF, translation history lectures at the Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library.
FRE 504 and the Fondation Santé Outaouais
In Fall 2024, French Audiovisual Translation students worked with the Fondation Santé Outaouais on “Les Zaventures des Petits-Zamours (external link) ,” a series of children’s illustrated books that feature audiobook versions. All proceeds of book sales directly support cancer research in the Gatineau, Quebec region.
The project focused on two main components of creating professional French subtitles for existing videos on the associated YouTube channel and conducting applied research to explore the feasibility of translating and producing English versions of the books. The author of the original French books, University of Ottawa Professor Jean Quirion, enthusiastically supported this initiative and publicly acknowledged the work of TMU students at the official launch of the book series in Gatineau, Quebec, in September 2024. “On behalf of the Fondation Santé Outaouais, I would like to thank the students for their community involvement and commitment to this project. I am convinced that their contribution will greatly enrich the accessibility and reach of this initiative to new audiences,” said Quirion.
FRE 504 student Kayla Gershov used an online software to produce French subtitles for “Toutous pour tous,” one of the six audiobooks included in this project.
The project progressed through several key phases, starting with students individually developing French subtitles for six audiobooks. This was followed by collaborative research on applied topics, ultimately leading to the creation of a collective advisory booklet presented to the partner organization.
The applied research projects explored several key dimensions of the children’s audiobook market. One area of focus was market research, examining current trends, audience expectations, and notable differences between French and English-language markets. The projects also addressed inclusion and accessibility, identifying strategies to ensure illustrated books and audiobooks are accessible to a wider range of young readers, including those who are visually or hearing impaired. Additionally, the research produced recommendations for future marketing strategies aimed at promoting translated versions of these works to English-speaking audiences.
Both the organization and the students expressed appreciation for this initiative. “This class wasn’t just about learning a language; it was about building bridges. We learned to listen, to empathize, and to communicate effectively across cultural differences. It was a truly transformative experience,” shared Kayla Gershov, a student who worked closely with Professor Zapata and her classmates to complete the project.
FRE 607 and Savyn Tech
In the winter term, English-French Translation students had the opportunity to help develop digital content in French for Savyn Tech (external link) , a non-profit, Toronto community-based organization that helps immigrants dealing with mental health issues. Savyn is also a start-up at the TMU Social Ventures Zone. “It was eye-opening to see how the language we were learning in class could be used to make a tangible difference," said FRE 607 student Aziza Maten, “Working with Savyn allowed me and my classmates to understand the cultural nuances and experiences of the language in a way that no textbook could ever replicate.”
The benefits of this experiential learning model extended beyond language proficiency. Students developed critical thinking, intercultural communication, technological and project management skills. The collaborative nature of the projects demanded teamwork and adaptability—all qualities highly valued in today’s globalized and interconnected workforce.
“I am extremely thankful for the support from the Faculty of Arts in creating these opportunities for our students. The success of these projects serves as an advocacy piece for continued investment in creative and experiential learning opportunities, underscoring the importance of empowering our students to become active, engaged citizens,” said Professor Zapata. FRE 504 and FRE 607 courses exemplify the power of the Community-Engaged Learning and Teaching approach supported by Tandon in the Faculty of Arts by demonstrating how academic rigour can be seamlessly integrated with community engagement.
Sébastien Dorelas is a Research Assistant for the CELT projects in French language courses, including FRE 504 and FRE 607, taught by Professor Zapata at Toronto Metropolitan University.