Daily News

Posted on July 25: Inquiry and small-group learning are hallmarks of health sciences program

McMaster enjoys a tradition of innovation across the University. In the Faculty of Health Sciences, they're demonstrating some of their innovative approaches to education through the Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHSc) Program. Currently one of McMaster's most popular and premier programs, the honours program has grown to 300 students since it was first offered in September 2000. The program continues to enjoy much success, with more than 3,000 prospective students applying this year. The growth in this program is one reason McMaster needs additional space. The University is building a new Centre for Learning & Discovery which will provide these and other health sciences students with specialized space to conduct classes in inquiry and small-group learning, hallmarks of this new program. Students who are admitted to the program hold high averages in studies such as English, biology, chemistry and calculus, are involved in extracurricular activities and are interested in health issues. They are also well-rounded in their studies because the BHSc Program uses a unique interdisciplinary approach to the study of health. Students gain an understanding of health from biological, behavioural, and population-based perspectives. McMaster's internationally known expertise in problem-based, self-directed learning is a big feature of the program. This approach provides students with skills that will facilitate learning now and later in their careers. The program's assistant dean, professor of pathology and molecular medicine Del Harnish, states that the heavy emphasis on inquiry classes is the most unique and valuable aspect of the program. "Inquiry will be very valuable to these students in the long term. It will enable them to develop critical thinking skills and to take an active role in their own educations."

Posted on July 25: Down to the wire for Hamilton bid as Commonwealth Games evaluation commission holds news conference

Hamilton's Commonwealth Games bid is down to the final strokes as the Commonwealth Games Federation Evaluation Commission comes to the city next week. The CGF Evaluation Commission will hold its only public news conference about the Canadian bid on Thursday, July 31 at McMaster University at 1 p.m. in the student centre lobby. Then the CGF commission will depart for India to assess the New Delhi bid, Hamilton's only other competitor. The CGF Evaluation Commission, comprised of six international members of the Commonwealth Games Federation, is in the Hamilton area for a four-day visit to assess the technical components of the corporation's bid for the 2010 Commonwealth Games.