ICT Advantage
Department of Education Overview
The ICT Department of Education has been instrumental in achieving numerous milestones, significantly enhancing the reputation of ICT Schools. The key accomplishments include:
- Fully articulated curriculum
- Comprehensive Course Workbooks
- Extensive Test Bank
- Student-Centered Interactive Learning (SCIL) Method
- Teacher Education Certificate Program
- Preadmission Correspondence Course
- Graduate Courses and Programs
- Serving as an Education Provider for Athabasca University
Leadership and Expertise
Dr. Gila Strauch, Director of Education Emeritus Dr. Strauch has played a pivotal role in the development of ICT’s curriculum. With a Ph.D. from the Curriculum Department of OISE, University of Toronto (1994), her focus has been on science education and curriculum development. Her academic journey includes:
- B.Sc. in Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University (1972)
- M.Sc. in Microbiology and Immunology, Tel Aviv University (1974), Magna Cum Laude
- M.Ed. in Science Education, OISE (1990)
SCIL Learning Method
ICT Schools have designed a unique Student-Centered-Interactive-Learning (SCIL) method, drawing upon extensive educational research. This method emphasizes student involvement in the learning process, contextual learning, and critical thinking. Key features include:
- Logical and coherent presentation of information
- Treatment templates for material integration
- Coordinated subject matter across courses
- Variety of learning formats (discussions, worksheets)
The SCIL method ensures that students engage in continual research, problem-solving, and peer discussions, fostering comprehensive understanding and critical assessment skills essential for healthcare providers.
Practical Component
The practical component of ICT programs is crucial, offering students their first opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in a hands-on environment. Practical classes use case studies and simulated clients, providing a safe and supervised setting to develop essential skills. The College Teaching Clinic extends this experience, simulating real-life conditions to prepare students for professional practice.
Teaching Excellence
ICT Schools prioritize teaching excellence by ensuring all educators are accomplished therapists, practitioners, and professionals committed to teaching. Continuous teacher education ensures that ICT instructors possess the necessary skills and knowledge to provide high-quality education.
Suikodo® Therapy
Suikodo is an exclusive manual medicine modality at ICT Schools, developed by Shiatsu Master Mitsuki Kikkawa. It incorporates various techniques such as:
- Meridian stretches
- Direct pressure Shiatsu-style techniques
- Neuromeridian Stimulation (NMS) techniques
- Energy-based techniques
Suikodo emphasizes the body’s innate wisdom and the therapist’s role in interpreting and responding to this feedback. Training in Suikodo is exclusive to ICT Schools, and only ICT graduates can practice Suikodo Therapy.
Mitsuki Kikkawa’s Legacy
Mitsuki Kikkawa, educated at Japan Shiatsu College under Shiatsu Master Tokujiro Namikoshi, co-founded Kikkawa College in 1981. He developed Ontario’s first professional Shiatsu Training Program and significantly contributed to establishing Shiatsu Therapy in Canada.
Student and Alumni Services
Tutorial Services ICT Schools provide free tutorial sessions for students facing difficulties, as well as provincial certification examination preparation tutorials.
Employment Opportunity Registry An on-site Employment Registry offers a collection of job opportunities for students and graduates.
Student Association The Student Association promotes student interests, organizes orientation activities, socials, peer tutoring, and graduation planning.
Alumni Services ICT Schools maintain strong ties with alumni through surveys, notices of continuing education courses, preferred registration, and event discounts. Alumni also have access to the Employment Registry.
Degree Opportunity at Athabasca University
ICT Schools have developed an articulation agreement with Athabasca University, allowing ICT graduates to transfer up to 30 credits towards a 120-credit degree in health sciences. This opportunity enables graduates to pursue a university degree while practicing as Massage Therapists, without the need to relocate.
For more information, visit:
Graduation and Employment Rates
Choosing the right school is crucial. Consider the school’s location, tuition, learning atmosphere, educational history, curriculum, accreditation, and professional affiliations. In Ontario, the Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities provides graduation, placement, and loan default statistics, available at: MCU Website
