This is an online asynchronous course (time-flexible learning format) from September 7 – December 13, 2026.
Eligible for PIBC CPL units. Review PIBC's CPL reporting guidelines here.
This course guides you through the process of recognizing significance of heritage resources, mainly historic places. It guides you through methods to identify values that are associated with historic places and synthesize them into an argument of significance in other words the reason to preserve them.
Historic places are understood as "A structure, building, group of buildings, district, landscape, archaeological site or other place in Canada that has been formally recognized for its heritage value" (Glossary, Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada). It begins by exploring the context of heritage to focus on those influences that frame the exercise of determining significance. You are then guided to apply methods to determine the significance of heritage resources.
Heritage is a cultural construct that emerged from a variety of collective interests and needs. Science, politics, social and economic concerns have all influenced the definition and conservation of heritage resources at various degrees. The legacy of these influences is a rich 'collection' of places administered by government authorities and private owners.
Recognizing the significance of heritage resources is also a means to articulate the importance of a place in the landscape and for the people associated with it. While Western views of heritage have dominated the field until later in the 20th century, various professional principles, charters, and guidelines have provided the means to respect the diversity of cultural interpretations of what constitutes heritage.
In order to recognize the significance of heritage resources, it is essential to identify and work with the biases that influenced past designations (i.e. places officially recognized by an authority as having significance) as well as integrate the multiple perspectives that come into play in current definitions of heritage.
Delivery Style: Online Asynchronous
Date: Sept. 7- Dec. 13, 2026
Instructor: Dr. Marcus Letourneau
Fee: $815.40 plus UVSS fees
Credit and non-credit options available
