Rebecca Fitzgerald

My personal teaching philosophy is directed towards enhancing the student learning experience and mentorship of their success. I am dedicated to excellence in ethical practice, lifelong learning, and fulfilling the standards of the teaching profession as it relates to students and collaborative teaching roles. I recognize the need to establish interdisciplinary alliance both internally and externally with teaching colleagues and stakeholders to develop support systems that generate desirable outcomes and reinforces them through positive actions. I believe that educators, at their best, serve as guides and catalysts who engage students in critical thinking, reasoning, and dialogue clearing the road for success in any educational endeavor. I also believe that teaching and learning is a partnership between educator and students and that it is synergistic. I am confident that excellent educators help establish an atmosphere, whether learning takes place online or face to face that promotes honesty and integrity and encourages students to examine their own beliefs, knowledge and assumptions as well as invite constructive debate and feedback.  

An accomplished nursing professional and educator with diverse clinical, academic, and leadership experience in Canadian healthcare and post-secondary education. Currently serving as an Online Facilitator and Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the Internationally Educated Nurses (IEN) program at Algonquin College, supporting IENs in bridging competency gaps aligned with CNO Entry-to-Practice Competencies. Expertise includes virtual instruction in Health Assessment and Nursing Research, curriculum development, and culturally inclusive pedagogy.

Previously held the role of Associate Dean at Lethbridge College's School for Allied Health (2020–2023), providing strategic academic leadership, managing accreditation, budgets, and faculty development initiatives. From 2013 to 2020, worked as Nursing Faculty in the BScN program, leading instructional and program development, student engagement, and flexible delivery design.

A Registered Nurse (CRNA #58259) since 1980, with clinical expertise across a wide range of settings including Emergency, Post-Anaesthetic Recovery, Gastroenterology, Ambulatory Care, Maternity, Surgical, and Occupational Health Nursing. Proven ability to mentor, guide, and assess nursing learners with a focus on professional growth and regulatory readiness.

Educational Background Relevant to Nursing Educator Role:

Doctorate in Educational (Distance) Education — Athabasca University, July 2023
Dissertation: "A Storied Picture of International Students’ Hope in Online Learning" — Focuses on strategies to enhance online learning experiences for diverse student populations.

Master of Science in Nursing — University of British Columbia, May 2009
Provides a strong foundation in advanced nursing knowledge, research skills, and evidence-based practice.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing — College of the Cariboo, May 2002
Established core clinical competencies, foundational nursing skills, and academic preparation for teaching and mentoring future nurses.