U.S. learning technologies expert provides laptop insights for talk at University of Ontario Institute of Technology

OSHAWA, Ont. - Where are new technologies taking teaching and learning? Faculty at Ontario's first laptop-based university will find out January 21, 2004. A day exploring "The changing landscape for teaching and learning" will be held at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology, Canada's newest university.

The full-day program features an opening address "The impact of learning technologies for the university of the 21st century" presented by Richard Katz, vice-president of the U.S.-based EDUCAUSE. This is a leading non-profit association whose function is to research current trends in information technology and advocate technology's proper use in higher education.

Katz is also director of the EDUCAUSE Centre for Applied Research, a think tank with a mandate to better prepare universities and colleges for managing information technology. In addition to his directorial efforts, Katz has written six books, published several articles and is a frequent speaker at international events on information technology topics and higher education.

Other sessions include Canadian perspectives with Concordia University faculty experts, Associate Professor Dennis Dicks and Assistant Professor Cindy Ives, who are presenting "Teaching technologies: Planning the means to an end." Additional viewpoints will be offered by UOIT professors and students who will relate their individual experiences with laptop-based learning.

Bill Muirhead, UOIT's Associate Provost, Learning Technologies, hopes that the workshop will provide valuable insight that can be applied to enrich the learning experience at Canada's newest university.

"Our main challenge is to provide value to the students," states Dr. Muirhead. "We don't use the latest technology just for the sake of using the technology, but rather to enhance the learning environment for the students."

Members of the media are particularly welcome to attend the lecture by Richard Katz from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., in UA 1140, university building one, the University of Ontario Institute of Technology, 2000 Simcoe St. N., Oshawa.

About the University of Ontario Institute of Technology

As Canada's newest university, the University of Ontario Institute of Technology provides a unique combination of academic knowledge, vibrant student life, leading-edge research and hands-on skills. The university offers career-focused degree programs and shares selected facilities with Durham College. Located in Oshawa, Ontario, the university welcomed its first students in September 2003. For more information, visit www.uoit.ca or call 1.866.844.8648.

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About Ontario Tech University
A modern, forwarding-thinking university, Ontario Tech advances the discovery and application of knowledge to accelerate economic growth, regional development and social innovation. We inspire and equip our students and our graduates to make a positive impact in a tech-focused world. For us, it’s not only about developing the next tech breakthrough. Understanding and integrating the social and ethical implications of technology differentiates us as university. Learn more at ontariotechu.ca.

Media contact
Oliver Fernandez
Communications and Marketing
Ontario Tech University
905.721.3111, ext. 2513
oliver.fernandez@uoit.ca