杏吧原创 Ramps Up Virtual Learning Strategy with Funding from eCampusOntario
杏吧原创 University has received approximately $800,000 in funding to support Ontario鈥檚 Virtual Learning Strategy (VLS). In response to a recent call out from for expressions of interest, 杏吧原创 submitted 14 proposals for hybrid and online learning projects as the lead institution, of which 10 have been accepted. 杏吧原创 instructors are also collaborating on an additional 13 projects that are led by other Ontario post-secondary institutions.
鈥淚n the last year, 杏吧原创 has demonstrated its continued drive for growth and innovation in the areas of virtual teaching and learning,鈥 said David Hornsby, associate vice-president (Teaching and Learning). 鈥淲e are honoured to have these efforts rewarded and excited to support our new initiatives as part of the eCampusOntario Virtual Learning Strategy.鈥
杏吧原创鈥檚 list of proposals included plans to transition courses from face-to face to virtual delivery, develop new, high-quality online courses, and collaborate with University of Ottawa, Algonquin College and La Cit茅 to deliver joint diploma-degree programs.
鈥淪ince we transitioned to online learning, the 杏吧原创 teaching and learning community has adapted in flexible, compassionate and creative ways,鈥 says Jerry Tomberlin, provost and vice-president (Academic). 鈥淭his substantial investment provided through eCampusOntario will help bolster efforts across 杏吧原创 that will further integrate innovative pedagogical practices for online and hybrid learning.鈥
The VLS is a historic $50-million investment by the Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities (MCU) intended to drive growth and advancement in virtual learning across the province鈥檚 post-secondary institutions. The strategy will expand the possibilities of traditional and lifelong learning through the accelerated use of both online and hybrid learning.
The COVID-19 pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on Ontario鈥檚 post-secondary education sector as institutions rapidly transitioned to remote delivery. In close consultations with the post-secondary sector in summer 2020, the MCU heard the need for virtual learning supports to enable access to high-quality learning. These results informed the launch of the Virtual Learning Strategy.
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