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Workshops

UVic Libraries offers workshops and instruction on a wide variety of topics. Do you want to learn a new tool, strengthen your research skills or express your creativity? We are here to help.

Upcoming workshops

Want to see what workshops are coming up? You can browse our events calendar to see details about our scheduled workshops. You can also use the events calendar to register for a workshop.

All workshops

Below, you can find descriptions for all library workshops. This provides an overview of the topics we regularly cover. If you're not sure whether the workshop you want is currently available, contact us.

Browse or search by topic, access self-paced workshop materials or book a session for your class (instructors only).

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Artificial intelligence

  • AI tools for literature reviews Updated

    This workshop explores the use of generative AI (GenAI) for literature reviews. It focuses on how AI can help with idea generation and research tasks. It also addresses ethical considerations like plagiarism, privacy and research integrity.

    In this workshop, you will learn how to:

    • assess AI tool outputs for accuracy and bias
    • integrate these tools into your research process

    This hands-on workshop includes discussions about UVic's policies, AI tool uses and citation methods for GenAI content.

    Faculty & instructors UVic staff Undergraduate Graduate Online In person Hybrid Artificial intelligence

    Materials for GenAI: Tools for literature reviews

  • GenAI: Introduction & prompt design Updated

    In this workshop, you will explore how generative AI (GenAI) can help with student research.

    This workshop covers:

    • idea generation
    • literature reviews
    • plagiarism
    • privacy
    • research integrity

    By the end, you will gain a basic understanding of GenAI and the ethical implications of its use in student research.

    Graduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors Undergraduate Online In person Hybrid Artificial intelligence

    Materials for GenAI: Introduction & prompt design

  • GenAI: NotebookLM, a personal tool for research & productivity

    Personalized generative AI tools can be useful research assistants grounded in information you trust. When you upload documents to tools like NotebookLM, it instantly becomes an expert in the information you upload.

    Undergraduate Graduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors In person Online Hybrid Artificial intelligence

    Materials for GenAI: NotebookLM, a personal tool for research & productivity

  • GenAI: Research tools Updated

    In this workshop, you will explore different ways to use generative AI (GenAI):

    • installing and using local GenAI software on a laptop
    • using specific documents as the training data for a GenAI tool
    • performing sentiment analysis on free-form survey questions

    In the hands-on part of the workshop, you will assess GenAI content for accuracy and biases. The workshop will also encourage informed, responsible GenAI use.

    Undergraduate Graduate Faculty & instructors UVic staff In person Online Hybrid Artificial intelligence

    Materials for GenAI: Research tools

  • GenAI: Spotting AI-generated content online

    Are you sure your favourite celebrity REALLY said that? How do you know that source in your bibliography is REALLY written by a credible author? Images, audio, video, text… generative AI tools can produce huge amounts of content almost instantly. Will you be able to tell the difference between real content and AI?

    In this workshop, you’ll compare examples of real (human-created) and generative AI content. You’ll learn techniques to assess what you’re seeing and hearing online to tell if it’s real or AI-generated, and why that even matters.

    Undergraduate Graduate Faculty & instructors UVic staff In person Online Hybrid Artificial intelligence

    Materials for GenAI: Spotting AI-generated content online [TO BE UPDATED]

  • Transcription with free AI tools

    An introduction to transcription services like Microsoft 365, Whisper.ai and Zoom. In this workshop, you will learn to use these tools for transcribing audio. You will also learn the benefits, use cases and ethical considerations of each. This workshop includes hands-on activities where you will transcribe an audio file and export the transcription in multiple formats.

    Graduate UVic staff Undergraduate Faculty & instructors Online In person Hybrid Artificial intelligence

    Materials for Transcription with free AI tools

Citations & citation management

  • Advanced Zotero: Beyond the basics

    Are you ready to take your Zotero skills to the next level? In this advanced workshop, dive deeper into Zotero, a free software that makes managing references easier. Whether you’re a regular Zotero user or a seasoned researcher, this workshop will help you handle citations more efficiently. Join us for an interactive session, and leave with practical skills that will streamline your research process.

    UVic staff Faculty & instructors Graduate Undergraduate Online In person Citations & citation management

    Materials for Advanced Zotero

  • Citation justice: Amplifying voices in our scholarship Updated

    An introduction to the politics of citation. While you should always cite good science, art and literature, this workshop asks you to consider digging a bit deeper to diversify your citations. It explores challenges faced by historically marginalized groups, and ways to uplift their voices.

    By the end of the workshop, you will:

    • be able to explain the importance of citations
    • reflect on systemic inequalities in the scholarly landscape
    • identify strategies for more inclusive citation practices

    UVic staff Faculty & instructors Undergraduate Graduate In person Online Citations & citation management

    Materials for Citation justice

  • Citations made easy: Intro to Zotero

    Are citations giving you a headache? Do you find the details of citation styles like APA or MLA confusing? Tired of the last-minute rush to create a correctly formatted bibliography? If so, you should try Zotero!

    Zotero is a free software that makes importing, organizing and managing references easier. Plus, it generates in-text citations and bibliographies in various citation styles—APA, MLA, Chicago, IEEE and much more. This introductory workshop will get you up and running with this citation management software.

    Undergraduate Faculty & instructors Graduate UVic staff Online In person Citations & citation management

    Materials for Intro to Zotero

  • Intro to Zotero for legal research Updated

    An introduction to using Zotero in legal research. Zotero is a citation management tool that is used to import, organize and manage references. You can use it to generate in-text citations and bibliographies.

    In this workshop, learn how to:

    • download the McGill Guide into Zotero
    • import and organize references
    • cite Canadian cases and legislation with Zotero

    This workshop is only available by instructor request.

    Faculty & instructors Undergraduate Graduate In person Online Hybrid Citations & citation management

    Materials for Intro to Zotero for legal research

Course reserves and copyright

  • Course reserves drop-in workshop Updated

    Learn how to use the course reserves platform. You will be able to create interactive reading lists that are accessible through Brightspace.

    In this workshop, learn how to:

    • create, edit and roll over lists
    • add items from the library catalogue, web resources and print materials
    • ensure that you're following UVic’s Fair Dealing Guidelines

    Bring your syllabus, and we can help you get started!

    Faculty & instructors Online Course reserves and copyright

    Materials for Course reserves

Data analysis, visualization, mapping, GIS

  • Data analysis with Excel

    Interested in using Excel for data analysis? If so, this workshop is for you. Learn how to format different data types, clean datasets, create tables, automate tasks and more.

    Undergraduate Graduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors Online In person Hybrid Data analysis, visualization, mapping, GIS

    Materials for Data analysis with Excel

  • Data analysis with RStudio – intermediate

    After the Introduction to data analysis with RStudio workshop, this workshop is the perfect next step! Previous experience with RStudio and knowledge of introductory statistics are necessary. If you’re not familiar with RStudio, start with our introduction to RStudio workshop.

    Faculty & instructors Undergraduate Graduate UVic staff Hybrid In person Online Data analysis, visualization, mapping, GIS

    Materials for Data analysis with RStudio – intermediate

  • Data analysis with RStudio – introduction

    Want to learn more about statistical and data analysis? Are you a graduate student wondering how you're going to analyze your research data? This hands-on workshop will introduce you to RStudio, a free and open-source tool for analyzing and visualizing your data.

    Faculty & instructors UVic staff Graduate Undergraduate Hybrid Online In person Data analysis, visualization, mapping, GIS

    Materials for Data analysis with RStudio – introduction

  • Data visualization & narrative maps Updated

    This workshop focuses on data visualization and narrative mapping. It teaches you the skills to present data through tools like Google Sheets, StoryMap JS and Timeline JS.

    In this workshop, you will learn how to:

    • clean data
    • create visualizations
    • build multimedia narratives such as maps and timelines

    This workshop will help you learn how to communicate complex data in an engaging and accessible way.

    UVic staff Faculty & instructors Undergraduate Graduate In person Hybrid Online Data analysis, visualization, mapping, GIS

    Materials for Data visualization & narrative maps

  • Data visualization with Tableau Updated

    An introduction to data visualization using Tableau, a powerful tool for transforming raw data into clear, interactive visual formats.

    In this workshop, you will learn key concepts of data visualization, including:

    • understanding audience needs
    • form
    • relationship
    • design

    You will practice importing data, creating visualizations and building interactive dashboards to tell compelling, data-driven stories.

    Graduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors Undergraduate Online In person Hybrid Data analysis, visualization, mapping, GIS

    Materials for Data visualization with Tableau

  • Data wrangling with OpenRefine Updated

    This workshop will introduce you to data wrangling (or data cleaning). OpenRefine is a powerful tool for transforming messy data into structured datasets.

    In this workshop, you will learn key data-cleaning practices to prepare data for analysis, including:

    • analyzing value occurrences
    • clustering and standardizing values
    • separating or joining fields

    By the end of the workshop, you will be able to effectively clean and organize datasets for further use.

    Graduate Undergraduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors Hybrid Online In person Data analysis, visualization, mapping, GIS

    Materials for Data wrangling with OpenRefine

  • Dataframes in Pandas (Python) Updated

    An introduction to Pandas DataFrames with Jupyter Notebooks, focusing on structuring and analyzing data with Python.

    In this workshop, you will learn how to:

    • input and output code in Jupyter
    • upload CSV files into DataFrames
    • manipulate data
    • create visualizations using Pandas

    This workshop will help you build foundational skills for data manipulation and analysis using Python's powerful data library, Pandas.

    Faculty & instructors Graduate Undergraduate UVic staff Online In person Hybrid Data analysis, visualization, mapping, GIS

    Materials for Dataframes in Pandas

  • Infographics with Canva Updated

    An introduction to creating infographics using Canva, a free graphic design tool. This workshop covers the basics of transforming research or data into visual narratives.

    In this workshop, learn how to:

    • summarize key facts
    • translate quantitative data into charts, tables and graphics

    By the end, you will be able to design visually compelling infographics to use on posters, social media or websites.

    Graduate Undergraduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors Hybrid Online In person Data analysis, visualization, mapping, GIS

    Materials for Infographics with Canva

  • Qualitative coding with Taguette Updated

    Taguette is free web-based tool that helps researchers work on their qualitative data. Taguette is a user-friendly tool for analyzing interviews, reports, transcripts and a variety of text. You can use Taguette to:

    • create codes
    • analyze texts
    • export in different file formats

    Whether you have a large or small amount of text to analyze, Taguette might be a great option for you.

    Faculty & instructors UVic staff Undergraduate Graduate Online Hybrid In person Data analysis, visualization, mapping, GIS

    Materials for Qualitative coding with Taguette

  • Qualitative data analysis & coding with NVivo – advanced Updated

    In this advanced workshop, you will be introduced to creating cases and classifying them using NVivo. Generally, you can use case classifications to record information about your study subjects, which can be:

    • people
    • institutions
    • places
    • and more

    Case classifications allows you to include demographic information about the "units of analysis" in your project. If you have previous knowledge working with NVivo and want to explore more, this workshop is for you.

    Graduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors Undergraduate In person Hybrid Online Data analysis, visualization, mapping, GIS

    Materials for Qualitative data analysis & coding with NVivo - advanced

  • Qualitative data analysis & coding with NVivo – introduction Updated

    An introduction to NVivo, a software for organizing and analyzing qualitative data.

    In this workshop, you will learn how to:

    • navigate the NVivo workspace
    • import data
    • create coding structures
    • perform queries to analyze text-based data

    This workshop focuses on hands-on practice with coding, running word frequency, text search and matrix queries. It emphasizes exporting data and managing projects effectively.

    UVic staff Graduate Faculty & instructors Undergraduate Hybrid In person Online Data analysis, visualization, mapping, GIS

    Materials for Qualitative data analysis & coding with NVivo - introduction

  • Survey creation with SurveyMonkey

    Interested in developing surveys that can collect responses quickly and turn them into visuals? If so, join our SurveyMonkey workshop!

    In this introductory workshop, you can learn about a variety of survey question types that you can use in your project. You will also start developing your survey using SurveyMonkey. This tool helps you create surveys, spread them through online channels and quickly visualize results. No previous experience required.

    Undergraduate Graduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors In person Hybrid Online Data analysis, visualization, mapping, GIS

    Materials for Survey creation with SurveyMonkey

  • Transcription with free AI tools

    An introduction to transcription services like Microsoft 365, Whisper.ai and Zoom. In this workshop, you will learn to use these tools for transcribing audio. You will also learn the benefits, use cases and ethical considerations of each. This workshop includes hands-on activities where you will transcribe an audio file and export the transcription in multiple formats.

    Graduate UVic staff Undergraduate Faculty & instructors Online In person Hybrid Data analysis, visualization, mapping, GIS

    Materials for Transcription with free AI tools

Data management

  • Data management planning Updated

    An introduction to data management plans (DMPs). DMPs outline strategies for managing, preserving and sharing research data.

    In this workshop:

    • learn the importance of good data management practices
    • become familiar with the DMP Assistant tool for creating a DMP
    • understand key considerations for planning data management during the research process

    By the end, you will understand how to structure a DMP and its role in supporting efficient, reproducible and transparent research.

    UVic staff Graduate Undergraduate Faculty & instructors In person Online Hybrid Data management

    Materials for Data management planning

  • OneDrive – introduction Updated

    An introduction to OneDrive, a cloud storage and file-sharing platform. Use OneDrive to support document organization, collaboration and synchronization.

    In this workshop, you will learn how to:

    • sign in with your UVic credentials
    • use OneDrive on the web
    • create and upload documents
    • organize folders
    • edit files
    • collaborate with others by sharing files and setting permissions

    This workshop also covers optional steps for installing and syncing OneDrive on a laptop.

    This workshop is only available by instructor request.

    Undergraduate UVic staff Graduate Faculty & instructors In person Online Hybrid Data management

    Materials for OneDrive - introduction

Design & media production

  • 3D design & print Updated

    Want to learn more about designing objects digitally and printing them on our 3D printers? This hands-on workshop will give you an introduction to 3D design using TinkerCAD.

    By the end of the workshop, you'll be able to:

    • add shapes and text to the TinkerCad workspace
    • resize and rotate objects using object sliders
    • extrude or make holes in objects
    • bevel or round object edges
    • combine objects together into one object
    • duplicate objects, including repeating patterns

    Graduate UVic staff Undergraduate Faculty & instructors Hybrid In person Online Design & media production

    Materials for 3D design & print

  • 3D design with Fusion 360 Updated

    An introduction to 3D design using Fusion 360. This professional Computer-Aided Design software allows you to design more complex 3D objects than beginner tools like TinkerCAD. In this workshop, learn key design concepts:

    • sketching
    • dimensioning
    • applying features
    • best practices for clear and organized design

    By the end, you will be able to create a 3D model from measured dimensions.

    Faculty & instructors Graduate UVic staff Undergraduate Online In person Hybrid Design & media production

    Materials for 3D design with Fusion 360

  • Academic posters with Canva Updated

    Learn how to create academic posters using Canva, a free graphic design tool.

    In this workshop, you will learn how to:

    • select and customize poster templates
    • format text
    • import images and logos
    • create charts
    • use correct resolution for large prints
    • generate QR codes
    • adjust poster sizes to meet design requirements for academic presentations

    Undergraduate Faculty & instructors UVic staff Graduate Online In person Hybrid Design & media production

    Materials for Academic posters with Canva

  • Design & layout with Canva – introduction Updated

    An introduction to design and layout with Canva, a free graphic design tool. In this workshop, you will learn to create professional visual materials, including:

    • posters
    • brochures
    • infographics

    You will also learn best practices for design layout and image resolution. This workshop explores the various templates available in Canva, with optional activities to design specific types of content like posters and brochures.

    Graduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors Undergraduate Online In person Hybrid Design & media production

    Materials for Design & layout with Canva - introduction

  • Design for laser cutting Updated

    An introduction to the process of laser cutting, focusing on creating 2D and 3D designs for precision engraving and cutting.

    Using tools like Inkscape and TinkerCAD, you will learn how to:

    • design objects
    • understand materials suitable for laser cutting
    • account for design factors like kerf

    By the end of the workshop, you will be able to create and modify designs, export them for laser cutting and understand key differences between laser cutting and 3D printing.

    Undergraduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors Graduate In person Online Hybrid Design & media production

    Materials for Design for laser cutting

  • Graphic design with Inkscape Updated

    An introduction to Inkscape, a free, open-source graphics editor for creating materials like logos, posters and flowcharts. In this workshop, you will learn to navigate Inkscape's interface, use key tools like the Selector tool and master basic functions.

    Some of these functions include:

    • drawing shapes
    • scaling objects
    • editing text

    This workshop also covers more advanced features, including editing nodes and importing and converting raster images into SVG files.

    Undergraduate Faculty & instructors UVic staff Graduate Online In person Hybrid Design & media production

    Materials for Graphic design with Inkscape

  • Historic computing: Emulating 1980s computer graphics

    An introduction to concepts in digital conservation using early Canadian computer graphics software.

    Graduate UVic staff Undergraduate General public Faculty & instructors In person Design & media production

    Materials for Historic computing

  • Image editing with Adobe Photoshop Updated

    In this workshop, you will learn basic Photoshop skills, including:

    • navigation
    • simple image editing
    • resizing
    • removing elements from photos

    This workshop is only available by instructor request.

    UVic staff Faculty & instructors Graduate Undergraduate In person Online Hybrid Design & media production

    Materials for Image editing with Adobe Photoshop

  • Image editing with GIMP Updated

    An introduction to GIMP, a free image editing software similar to Photoshop.

    In this workshop, you will learn some basic image editing skills, such as:

    • cropping and resizing
    • adjusting contrast
    • using the healing tool and layers
    • inserting images
    • converting images to black and white
    • making simple design edits
    • optional advanced tools like the Color Picker and Foreground Select Tool

    This workshop is only available by instructor request.

    Graduate Faculty & instructors UVic staff Undergraduate Online In person Hybrid Design & media production

    Materials for Image editing with GIMP

  • Image editing with Photopea Updated

    An introduction to Photopea, a free web-based image editing tool.

    In this workshop, learn basic photo editing skills, such as:

    • cropping
    • adjusting contrast
    • converting to black and white
    • tools like the Heal tool and Eyedropper

    It also covers more advanced techniques, including:

    • resizing images for online use
    • working with layers
    • removing unwanted elements from photos

    By the end, you will be able to effectively edit and enhance images.

    Faculty & instructors UVic staff Undergraduate Graduate Online In person Hybrid Design & media production

    Materials for Image editing with Photopea

  • Interactive & multimedia website content with H5P Updated

    An introduction to H5P, an open-source toolkit for creating interactive web-based educational content such as videos, quizzes and games. In this workshop, you will learn how to support active learning by adding elements like quizzes, pop-up text and links to existing videos.

    This workshop covers:

    • creating and editing videos
    • adding interactivity
    • sharing and embedding content
    • evaluating learner engagement

    Undergraduate Graduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors In person Hybrid Online Design & media production

    Materials for Interactive & multimedia website content with H5P

  • Interactive, nonlinear stories with Twine Updated

    An introduction to Twine, an open-source tool for creating interactive, non-linear stories and games.

    In this workshop, you will learn how to:

    • navigate the Twine app
    • create and edit stories
    • incorporate multimedia such as images and videos
    • use basic markup tags and CSS

    By the end, you will be able to design interactive stories with embedded choices and track user decisions through variables, with the option to publish your work online.

    Faculty & instructors UVic staff Graduate Undergraduate Online Hybrid In person Design & media production

    Materials for Interactive, nonlinear stories with Twine

  • Intro to bookbinding: Case binding Updated

    This watch-and-learn style workshop provides a comprehensive overview of case-binding processes. We focus on key elements such as case-making, signature creation and stitching techniques. Your students will gain insights into the craft of bookbinding.

    A technician will demonstrate the process of creating a mock hard cover book. They will explain the components and function of bindings, along with the basic techniques and tools involved in bookbinding.

    Students will learn:

    • the components and processes involved in case binding, including cover making, spine attachment and book cloth application
    • how to fold and stitch signatures, essential elements in creating book blocks for case binding
    • basic stitching techniques used in bookbinding (through observation)

    This is an 80-minute workshop. We can accommodate 10 to 30 students. Each workshop can be customized. 

    Please book at least 2 weeks in advance. We will do our best to work with your schedule. However, our ability to run this workshop depends on availability of library staff and of the space.

    Graduate Undergraduate In person Design & media production

    Materials for book arts workshops

  • Intro to letterpress printing and book arts Updated

    This workshop focuses on zines and books. Your students will learn letterpress printing basics alongside notebook binding. This workshop combines the tactile experience of letterpress printing with the practical skills of bookbinding. We can adjust based on available equipment, group size and participant skill levels.

    Students will learn:

    • letterpress printing skills, including safety protocols and press operation techniques
    • basic bookbinding techniques such as folding, scoring, hole punching and saddle stitching
    • creative design and printing of letterpressed covers, as well as the handmade assembly of notebooks
    • skills in press setup, inking, printing and bookbinding processes

    This is an 80-minute workshop. We can accommodate 10 to 30 students. Each workshop can be customized. 

    Please book at least 2 weeks in advance. We will do our best to work with your schedule. However, our ability to run this workshop depends on availability of library staff and of the space.

    Graduate Undergraduate In person Design & media production

    Materials for book arts workshops

  • Intro to letterpress printing: Context, materials & print Updated

    Your students will be introduced to letterpress printing, including an introduction to the historical context of book history and printmaking. This workshop includes hands-on work with materials from Special Collections & University Archives. Students will also get to use a printing press. Each student will print an object to keep while being guided through the lock-up, inking, printing and cleaning processes.

    Students will learn:

    • hands-on letterpress printing skills
    • information about historic book materials and the evolution of printing techniques
    • safety protocols associated with working in a book arts and letterpress printing space
    • critical thinking skills: they will analyze the connections between historical context, printmaking techniques and artistic expression

    We offer this workshop as a 50- or 80-minute session. We can accommodate 10 to 30 students. Each workshop can be customized. 

    Please book at least 2 weeks in advance. We will do our best to work with your schedule. However, our ability to run this workshop depends on availability of library staff and of the space.

    Graduate Undergraduate In person Design & media production

    Materials for book arts workshops

  • Intro to letterpress printing: Typesetting & print Updated

    This workshop covers both typesetting and printing. your students will learn the basics of typesetting and will explore movable type and job cases. They will set type on a composing stick. Students will also print a poem, poster or other ephemera that they can keep. Students will be guided through the lock-up, inking, printing and cleaning process.

    Students will learn:

    • hands-on typesetting and letterpress printing skills
    • safety protocols associated with working in a book arts and letterpress printing lab
    • critical thinking skills: they will analyze the connections between historical context, printmaking techniques and artistic expression

    This is an 80-minute workshop. We can accommodate 10 to 30 students. Each workshop can be customized. 

    Please book at least 2 weeks in advance. We will do our best to work with your schedule. However, our ability to run this workshop depends on availability of library staff and of the space.

    Undergraduate Graduate In person Design & media production

    Materials for book arts workshops

  • Letterpress printing: Creative expression and artistic exploration Updated

    This expanded workshop provides ample time for hands-on exploration, creative collaboration and in-depth learning experiences. It is tailored to artists and art educators interested in letterpress printing and artistic expression. We can adjust based on the specific needs and skill levels of the participants.

    Students will learn:

    • advanced typesetting skills, including collaborative block typesetting and design considerations for large-scale projects like posters
    • creative collaboration through teamwork, communication and collective artistic expression
    • advanced press operation, focusing on safety, registration, inking, printing and cleanup procedures
    • artistic exploration through the choice of words / images for typesetting and design elements for the collaborative poster
    • critical analysis, including analyzing their work, receiving feedback and engaging in dialogue about letterpress techniques and artistic concepts

    This is a 3-hour workshop. We can accommodate 10 to 30 students. Each workshop can be customized. 

    Please book at least 2 weeks in advance. We will do our best to work with your schedule. However, our ability to run this workshop depends on availability of library staff and of the space.

    Graduate Undergraduate In person Design & media production

    Materials for book arts workshops

  • Photography with your smartphone Updated

    In this workshop, you will learn how to take high-quality photos using your mobile device.

    You will practice:

    • adjusting focus and exposure manually
    • applying composition techniques like the rule of thirds
    • improving lighting

    This workshop also covers techniques for using apps to enhance and edit images. Learn how to become a more skilled photographer using just your smartphone.

    Undergraduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors Graduate In person Hybrid Online Design & media production

    Materials for Photography with your smartphone

  • Podcasting with Audacity Updated

    An introduction to podcasting using Audacity, a free, open-source software.

    In this workshop, you will learn techniques for recording, editing and producing podcasts, including:

    • trimming and splitting audio
    • adding voiceovers
    • using audio transitions
    • incorporating Creative Commons music

    This workshop also covers conducting interviews using Zoom, publishing podcasts through free services and best practices for audio quality and interviewing. By the end, you will be able to create and share your own podcast.

    Undergraduate Faculty & instructors UVic staff Graduate Online In person Hybrid Design & media production

    Materials for Podcasting with Audacity

  • Video editing with iMovie or ClipChamp Updated

    This workshop focuses on video editing using iMovie (for Mac users) and Microsoft ClipChamp (for Windows users).

    You will learn how to:

    • create video projects
    • import footage
    • trim and split clips
    • add transitions
    • create titles and credits
    • adjust audio

    Advanced topics include adding audio, creating slow-motion clips, cropping footage and using green screen effects. By the end of the workshop, you will be able to edit and publish your own video projects with these accessible tools.

    Graduate Undergraduate Faculty & instructors UVic staff Hybrid In person Online Design & media production

    Materials for Video editing with iMovie or ClipChamp

  • Virtual reality and creating 360 tours

    This workshop explores virtual reality (VR), 360 tours, and augmented reality (AR) technologies. It focuses on creating and using them for immersive experiences. You can learn to create 360-degree tours using tools like Google Earth Narrative Map, Marzipano and Lapentor. You will also learn how to develop AR experiences for mobile devices.

    By the end, you will understand the differences between VR, AR and 360 media. You will also have hands-on experience in creating interactive digital experiences.

    Undergraduate UVic staff Graduate Faculty & instructors In person Hybrid Online Design & media production

    Materials for Virtual reality and creating 360 tours

  • Zine and poster making: DIY aesthetics Updated

    In this workshop, creativity meets activism through cheap and accessible means. Your students will work in groups to create unique zines that can also transform into posters, embodying the spirit of punk and DIY culture.

    Students will be empowered to embrace low-fi culture, express their ideas creatively and recognize the potential of zines and posters as powerful tools for activism. We can adjust based on available tools, materials and students' skill levels.

    Students will:

    • explore various methods of zine creation, from hand-drawn to digital designs
    • learn scoring, cutting, trimming and folding techniques
    • understand the value of quick, simple and cheap production methods for disseminating ideas and promoting activism

    This is an 80-minute workshop. We can accommodate 10 to 30 students. Each workshop can be customized. 

    Please book at least 2 weeks in advance. We will do our best to work with your schedule. However, our ability to run this workshop depends on availability of library staff and of the space.

    Undergraduate Graduate In person Design & media production

    Materials for book arts workshops

Document layout and web design

  • Academic posters with Canva Updated

    Learn how to create academic posters using Canva, a free graphic design tool.

    In this workshop, you will learn how to:

    • select and customize poster templates
    • format text
    • import images and logos
    • create charts
    • use correct resolution for large prints
    • generate QR codes
    • adjust poster sizes to meet design requirements for academic presentations

    Undergraduate Faculty & instructors UVic staff Graduate Online In person Hybrid Document layout and web design

    Materials for Academic posters with Canva

  • Coding with HTML & CSS

    Are you a UVic student, staff or faculty member interested in learning the basics of coding? If so this workshop might be for you! This self-paced, hands-on workshop goes through the basics of HTML and CSS to give you a peek behind how websites work.

    Graduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors Undergraduate In person Online Hybrid Document layout and web design

    Materials for Coding with HTML & CSS

  • Death by PowerPoint Updated

    Learn how to create compelling presentations and move away from the common "death by PowerPoint" experience.

    In this workshop, you will learn how to:

    • structure slides
    • use storytelling techniques
    • add multimedia elements to your presentations

    By the end, you will be able to create persuasive presentations and effectively use photos, graphics and narration to engage your audience.

    This workshop is only available by instructor request.

    UVic staff Graduate Faculty & instructors Undergraduate In person Hybrid Online Document layout and web design

    Materials for Death by PowerPoint

  • Design & layout with Canva – introduction Updated

    An introduction to design and layout with Canva, a free graphic design tool. In this workshop, you will learn to create professional visual materials, including:

    • posters
    • brochures
    • infographics

    You will also learn best practices for design layout and image resolution. This workshop explores the various templates available in Canva, with optional activities to design specific types of content like posters and brochures.

    Graduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors Undergraduate Online In person Hybrid Document layout and web design

    Materials for Design & layout with Canva - introduction

  • Graphic design with Inkscape Updated

    An introduction to Inkscape, a free, open-source graphics editor for creating materials like logos, posters and flowcharts. In this workshop, you will learn to navigate Inkscape's interface, use key tools like the Selector tool and master basic functions.

    Some of these functions include:

    • drawing shapes
    • scaling objects
    • editing text

    This workshop also covers more advanced features, including editing nodes and importing and converting raster images into SVG files.

    Undergraduate Faculty & instructors UVic staff Graduate Online In person Hybrid Document layout and web design

    Materials for Graphic design with Inkscape

  • Infographics with Canva Updated

    An introduction to creating infographics using Canva, a free graphic design tool. This workshop covers the basics of transforming research or data into visual narratives.

    In this workshop, learn how to:

    • summarize key facts
    • translate quantitative data into charts, tables and graphics

    By the end, you will be able to design visually compelling infographics to use on posters, social media or websites.

    Graduate Undergraduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors Hybrid Online In person Document layout and web design

    Materials for Infographics with Canva

  • Interactive & multimedia website content with H5P Updated

    An introduction to H5P, an open-source toolkit for creating interactive web-based educational content such as videos, quizzes and games. In this workshop, you will learn how to support active learning by adding elements like quizzes, pop-up text and links to existing videos.

    This workshop covers:

    • creating and editing videos
    • adding interactivity
    • sharing and embedding content
    • evaluating learner engagement

    Undergraduate Graduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors In person Hybrid Online Document layout and web design

    Materials for Interactive & multimedia website content with H5P

  • Interactive, nonlinear stories with Twine Updated

    An introduction to Twine, an open-source tool for creating interactive, non-linear stories and games.

    In this workshop, you will learn how to:

    • navigate the Twine app
    • create and edit stories
    • incorporate multimedia such as images and videos
    • use basic markup tags and CSS

    By the end, you will be able to design interactive stories with embedded choices and track user decisions through variables, with the option to publish your work online.

    Faculty & instructors UVic staff Graduate Undergraduate Online Hybrid In person Document layout and web design

    Materials for Interactive, nonlinear stories with Twine

  • Personal websites with WordPress Updated

    An introduction to creating personal websites using WordPress.

    In this workshop,you will learn how to:

    • create and customize a basic website
    • structure navigation
    • add pages and blog posts
    • embed multimedia content
    • modify themes

    By the end, you will be able to design a personalized website with essential features like static pages and customizable navigation.

    This workshop focuses on both WordPress.com and the OpenEd.ca WordPress hosting option for UVic students, staff and faculty.

    Undergraduate Graduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors Hybrid In person Online Document layout and web design

    Materials for Personal websites with WordPress

  • Scientific documents with LaTeX Updated

    An introduction to LaTeX, a document preparation system for creating high-quality technical and scientific documents.

    In this workshop, you will learn how to:

    • write your first LaTeX document
    • format sections
    • create tables of contents
    • insert figures, tables, mathematical equations and references

    Graduate Undergraduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors In person Hybrid Online Document layout and web design

    Materials for Scientific documents with LaTeX

  • Version control with GitHub Updated

    This workshop introduces version control with GitHub, focused on managing and tracking changes in your projects.

    In this workshop, you will learn how to:

    • set up GitHub and the Atom text editor
    • create and manage local repositories
    • commit changes
    • collaborate using features like branching and pull requests
    • handle conflicts
    • integrate with RStudio
    • manage binary files

    By the end, you will have essential skills for version control and collaboration in software development and academic work.

    Undergraduate UVic staff Graduate Faculty & instructors Hybrid In person Online Document layout and web design

    Materials for Version control with GitHub

Fabrication and electronics

  • 3D design & print Updated

    Want to learn more about designing objects digitally and printing them on our 3D printers? This hands-on workshop will give you an introduction to 3D design using TinkerCAD.

    By the end of the workshop, you'll be able to:

    • add shapes and text to the TinkerCad workspace
    • resize and rotate objects using object sliders
    • extrude or make holes in objects
    • bevel or round object edges
    • combine objects together into one object
    • duplicate objects, including repeating patterns

    Graduate UVic staff Undergraduate Faculty & instructors Hybrid In person Online Fabrication and electronics

    Materials for 3D design & print

  • Design for laser cutting Updated

    An introduction to the process of laser cutting, focusing on creating 2D and 3D designs for precision engraving and cutting.

    Using tools like Inkscape and TinkerCAD, you will learn how to:

    • design objects
    • understand materials suitable for laser cutting
    • account for design factors like kerf

    By the end of the workshop, you will be able to create and modify designs, export them for laser cutting and understand key differences between laser cutting and 3D printing.

    Undergraduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors Graduate In person Online Hybrid Fabrication and electronics

    Materials for Design for laser cutting

  • Electronics with Arduino Updated

    This workshop will introduce you to Arduino. This open-source platform for programmable electronics is ideal for creating interactive technology.

    This workshop covers:

    • basic electronic principles
    • wiring projects using breadboards
    • modifying code to complete simple circuits and projects (like the "Hello World" Blink project)

    By the end, you will be able to explore a range of Arduino applications and resources for more learning.

    Undergraduate Faculty & instructors UVic staff Graduate In person Fabrication and electronics

    Materials for Electronics with Arduino

  • Internet of Things with Arduino Updated

    An introduction to the Internet of Things (IoT) using the Adafruit Feather Huzzah, a microcontroller that connects sensors to the cloud.

    In this workshop, you will learn how to:

    • set up IoT devices
    • send and receive data through web services like Adafruit IO and IFTTT
    • create interactive projects such as weather stations or light shows
    By the end, you will have hands-on experience with developing IoT applications and integrating devices with online services.

    UVic staff Faculty & instructors Graduate Undergraduate In person Hybrid Online Fabrication and electronics

    Materials for Internet of Things with Arduino

Research and digital literacy skills

  • AI tools for literature reviews Updated

    This workshop explores the use of generative AI (GenAI) for literature reviews. It focuses on how AI can help with idea generation and research tasks. It also addresses ethical considerations like plagiarism, privacy and research integrity.

    In this workshop, you will learn how to:

    • assess AI tool outputs for accuracy and bias
    • integrate these tools into your research process

    This hands-on workshop includes discussions about UVic's policies, AI tool uses and citation methods for GenAI content.

    Faculty & instructors UVic staff Undergraduate Graduate Online In person Hybrid Research and digital literacy skills

    Materials for GenAI: Tools for literature reviews

  • Creating & teaching active learning workshops Updated

    An introduction to the active learning teaching method. This method is designed to engage participants in digital skills workshops by using both synchronous and asynchronous elements.

    This workshop focuses on:

    • creating effective learning outcomes
    • designing pre-class and in-class activities
    • using a backward design methodology

    The workshop also emphasizes differentiating learning experiences for participants of different abilities. We will offer strategies for connecting new skills to existing knowledge. By the end, you will learn how to create and run engaging learner-centered workshops.

    Graduate Faculty & instructors UVic staff Undergraduate Online In person Hybrid Research and digital literacy skills

    Materials for Creating & teaching active learning workshops

  • GenAI: NotebookLM, a personal tool for research & productivity

    Personalized generative AI tools can be useful research assistants grounded in information you trust. When you upload documents to tools like NotebookLM, it instantly becomes an expert in the information you upload.

    Undergraduate Graduate UVic staff Faculty & instructors In person Online Hybrid Research and digital literacy skills

    Materials for GenAI: NotebookLM, a personal tool for research & productivity

  • GenAI: Research tools Updated

    In this workshop, you will explore different ways to use generative AI (GenAI):

    • installing and using local GenAI software on a laptop
    • using specific documents as the training data for a GenAI tool
    • performing sentiment analysis on free-form survey questions

    In the hands-on part of the workshop, you will assess GenAI content for accuracy and biases. The workshop will also encourage informed, responsible GenAI use.

    Undergraduate Graduate Faculty & instructors UVic staff In person Online Hybrid Research and digital literacy skills

    Materials for GenAI: Research tools

  • GenAI: Spotting AI-generated content online

    Are you sure your favourite celebrity REALLY said that? How do you know that source in your bibliography is REALLY written by a credible author? Images, audio, video, text… generative AI tools can produce huge amounts of content almost instantly. Will you be able to tell the difference between real content and AI?

    In this workshop, you’ll compare examples of real (human-created) and generative AI content. You’ll learn techniques to assess what you’re seeing and hearing online to tell if it’s real or AI-generated, and why that even matters.

    Undergraduate Graduate Faculty & instructors UVic staff In person Online Hybrid Research and digital literacy skills

    Materials for GenAI: Spotting AI-generated content online [TO BE UPDATED]

  • Sketchnoting: Doodle your way to better grades

    This workshop introduces sketchnoting, a method of visual note-taking. Sketchnoting combines handwriting, drawings and typography to support memory and understanding.

    In this workshop, you will learn basic design principles for layout and typography. You will also practice using shapes and simple figures to represent concepts. By the end, you will be able to listen, process and sketch key ideas to improve your recall and communication.

    UVic staff Faculty & instructors Graduate Undergraduate Online Hybrid In person Research and digital literacy skills

    Materials for Sketchnoting: Doodle your way to better grades

  • The literature review (for graduate students) Updated

    A well-crafted literature review is an important piece of the research and writing processes. It creates the foundation for a rigorous study. Have you ever had to do a literature review as part of an assignment without understanding its purpose?

    While the name "literature review" is widely used in academia, it is often used inconsistently or confused with a literature search. This workshop will focus on the most common type of literature review in student work: the narrative review. In this workshop, learn about the purposes, uses, structure and benefits of this key aspect of sharing and positioning your academic work.

    In this workshop, you will engage in critical discussions to learn the best way to create and situate a literature review for your own academic purposes.

    Graduate In person Research and digital literacy skills

Writing, study, and communication skills

  • Sketchnoting: Doodle your way to better grades

    This workshop introduces sketchnoting, a method of visual note-taking. Sketchnoting combines handwriting, drawings and typography to support memory and understanding.

    In this workshop, you will learn basic design principles for layout and typography. You will also practice using shapes and simple figures to represent concepts. By the end, you will be able to listen, process and sketch key ideas to improve your recall and communication.

    UVic staff Faculty & instructors Graduate Undergraduate Online Hybrid In person Writing, study, and communication skills

    Materials for Sketchnoting: Doodle your way to better grades