Distributed Learning Strategy
by Wenona Partridge
Enhancing distributed learning opportunities
through innovative approaches to course design and delivery at the University
of Saskatchewan contributes to the second integrated plan commitment to “offer more opportunities for e-learning
and other alternate modes of delivery of courses and/or programs in addition to
in-class options.” In 2011, the Provost’s Committee on Integrated
Planning (PCIP) invested in a new
strategy in integrated curriculum development and instructional design to
address a wider range of innovation priorities, including Aboriginal
engagement, internationalization, experiential learning and distributed
learning technologies. The investment in distributed learning technologies has enabled
us to increase our capacity for offering effective e-learning resources and
learner services to on-campus students, and will increasing online learning
opportunities for students across the province.
As a result of this funding, in 2011, the Gwenna Moss Centre for Teaching Effectiveness (GMCTE) and ITS training expanded their on-campus workshops and professional development events to consider educational technology and its appropriate use. The ULC and IT4U produced online instructional videos so students can seek help on their own time.
For example, ULC writing help videos featured faculty from a variety of colleges and departments talking about effective ways to write a thesis statement, a research paper or proposal, and other writing-specific topics.
Technological skills support for students was enhanced through access to online training videos, developed in partnership with IT4U, for students who need to learn basic computer and software skills.
Part of the investment of this strategy was targeted provincial government funding which, over the past decade, has supported the Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) Program, leading to the development of course content and modes of delivery, including one-off learning resources, and the development of learning technologies.The strategy also includes a plan for flexible, online learning opportunities, reaching students and faculty at various U of S distributed campus sites, including Prince Albert, La Ronge and Regina. An Information and Communications Technology (ICT) academic strategic plan is also under development.
