Experiential Learning Showcase: Chisom Sandra Odum
Feb 27, 2026
Program: Early Childhood Education
Placement: Near North District School Board – Vincent Massey PS & YMCA of Northeastern Ontario
For Chisom Sandra Odum, experiential learning at Canadore meant discovering how intentional, responsive care shapes children’s confidence, curiosity, and sense of belonging.
Through placements in licensed child care and school environments, Chisom worked with infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergarten children. She supported daily routines, sensory exploration, story time, outdoor play, and social interactions while learning to recognize children’s cues and respond with patience and care. Her focus was always on creating calm, inclusive environments where children felt safe to explore and express themselves.
“Being with children every day showed me how powerful the small moments are - how a tone of voice, a gesture of comfort, or a shared story can shape how a child feels about themselves and their world.”
Chisom chose Canadore’s Early Childhood Education program because she wanted more than theoretical knowledge. With a background in Educational Foundations and a personal connection to inclusive learning through her sister’s experiences with hearing and speech impairment, she was drawn to a program that emphasized both compassion and practical skill development. Canadore’s strong integration of classroom learning and real-world placements allowed her to connect theory directly to practice.
Through hands-on simulations, outdoor learning experiences, and placements guided by Ontario frameworks such as How Does Learning Happen?, ELECT, and the Kindergarten Program, Chisom developed strong observation, communication, and reflective practice skills. After completing one of her placements, she was offered a position as a supply Early Learning Assistant - a milestone that affirmed both her readiness and commitment to the field.
Her experiential learning reinforced that effective early childhood education is rooted in presence, patience, and intentional support. The experience strengthened her confidence as an educator and deepened her passion for helping every child feel seen, valued, and supported.
Her advice to future students: come into placement with curiosity and openness. Ask questions, notice the small moments, and trust that growth happens through experience. Experiential learning isn’t just about preparing for a job - it’s about discovering the educator you are becoming.