Learning Water Systems at CAMP

Of all the courses Prof. Jennifer Drake has taught, CME358 – better known as Survey Camp – at Gull Lake is her favourite, in particular a special tutorial Drake runs: Marshmallow Roasting 101.CIV201 Sept 2015 Campfire - Sleep photo
“Civil and Mineral Practicals (CAMP)–Survey Camp– is by far the most rewarding course to teach,” says Drake.

For any professor teaching environmental engineering, translating course material into real-world applications is difficult in an urban setting. “CAMP is a microcosm of everything that you use in a city; natural water systems, drinking water and waste water systems. While at camp we focus on water modules, hydrologic and topographical work, lake profiles, and soil identification.”
“Students learn in a real-time, life-size setting. They understand how the concepts and theories they learn in class relate to the real world,” explains Drake. “The experience helps students become well-rounded, better developed, passionate people which is what we want for our engineers.”Drake notes that there is a big difference between learning about stream gauging compared with doing it; having access to property north of the city is an invaluable tool and tremendous opportunity.

“Students have told me that camp is the most beautiful place they’ve ever visited; the wealth of Canada in terms of lakes and healthy nature really puts things in perspective. Our student population is highly urban, so survey camp is a unique experience for our students, one that creates memories and long-lasting learning.”20150812_155912

 

About CAMP

CME358, Civil and Mineral Practicals (CAMP) is a required course for all Civil and Mineral Engineering undergraduate students. The two-week camp instructs students in the art and science of land surveying, engineering project management, geology, hydrology, water treatment, woodlot management and sustainable energy.