As part of our EDUC 394 course, we visited the Prince George Public Library to explore the concept of place-based learning. Learning doesn’t only happen in classrooms; it comes from the people we meet, the land we live on, and the places we visit. In my personal experience, I’ve learned many things by living in different places, India, the UAE, and now Canada. Each country has given me the opportunity to learn about its unique culture, language, and laws. Living in these places also allowed me to meet people with diverse knowledge and perspectives.

I’ve observed how politics works differently in each country. For example, India is a democratic country, while the UAE is ruled by the kings of each emirate. In Canada, a federal system gives each province its own rules, which feels somewhat like the UAE but without a monarchy. I’ve also seen how different countries address global issues like climate change, with each using unique strategies to combat it. These experiences have also taught me about education systems, safety measures, advancements in technology, and the role of science in daily life.

Similarly, visiting the Prince George Public Library gave me the chance to learn how public libraries are structured and how they contribute to building knowledge. Libraries provide a calm, peaceful space where we can read and explore various topics. Growing up in a rural area in India, I didn’t have the opportunity to use a public library. The one was far away, and transportation was a challenge. Even when I visited, the library was noisy and not ideal for focused reading.

When I walked into the library here, I thought about how fortunate people are to have such a resource nearby. A library is more than just a collection of books, it’s a place where people can relax with their favorite stories, find professional resources, explore new ideas and take a break from traditional classrooms. As an educator, I believe it’s my responsibility to build awareness about the value of libraries as reading is a critical skill that builds knowledge, helps us think critically, and exposes us to diverse worldviews. Encouraging students to use this resource can help them develop reading habits, expand their knowledge, and become well-rounded individuals. It also improves storytelling abilities and creates opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals who share a love for books. 

Personally, I enjoy sitting in the library, surrounded by books. The calm environment helps me focus and complete my work productively, which is why I often visit the UNBC library to study. These visits make me more productive and keep away from distractions. I’m not someone who enjoys reading on gadgets, I love the smell of paper. 

Place-based learning reminds us that knowledge isn’t confined to classrooms. By exploring libraries, museums, and other community spaces, we can gain new perspectives, broaden our understanding, and develop skills that make us lifelong learners.