Supplied by Algoma University…

 

(SAULT STE. MARIE, ON: June 24, 2020): When students from Algoma University commenced their spring term studies this June, many were uncertain about the prospects of shifting from traditional face-to-face delivery to learning remotely. Fortunately, the support provided through a new partnership with PowerED™ by Athabasca University helped transform 20 undergraduate courses into high-quality, instructionally designed and engaging online delivery. In addition, the partnership enables Algoma U access to a customized digital infrastructure and learning management system that is modern, mobile-friendly, and secure.

The success of the spring term allows Algoma U, a small Northern Ontario based undergraduate institution with a student population of just over 2000 full- and part-time learners, to move forward with confidence into the second phase of development as another 20 courses are finalized in time for the fall term, part of a five-year plan to convert 184 courses for online delivery.

“We are elated to announce our partnership with Algoma U and to offer our expertise to assist Algoma U in implementing its e-Learning strategy and increase access to online learning opportunities for students,” said PowerED™ Director, Jessica Scott.

Prior to establishing the partnership, Algoma University had crafted a strategy to support enhanced e-Learning options but lacked sufficient technical infrastructure and the internal capacity to successfully execute the transition to high volume online/alternative academic program delivery brought on by COVID-19.

“While the partnership with PowerED™ by Athabasca University plays a critical role in helping Algoma University meet the immediate needs of local, regional and international students as a result of the pandemic, it actually accelerated the timelines of a long-term e-Learning strategy that was scheduled to commence in 2021. The partnership goes beyond the COVID pandemic in bringing a long-term solution to address institutional needs for high-quality, pedagogically sound remote course offerings,” said Dr. Donna Rogers, Provost and Academic Dean.

Courses fall in a range of subject areas including Business, Computer Science, Biology and Psychology.  Courses in all subject areas are designed for engaging student experience. One course, in particular, General Chemistry I integrates at-home lab kits giving students the opportunity to gain important hands-on experience in the lab.

Those interested in finding out more about online courses and programs at Algoma University are encouraged to visit their Virtual Open House site. For more information on PowerED™ by Athabasca University please visit the PowerED™ Website.
About Algoma University
Algoma University, established in Sault Ste. Marie in 1965, offers a wide range of degrees and certificates spanning the liberal arts, sciences, and professional disciplines.  The university also offers programming at campus locations in Brampton and Timmins. Algoma University has a special mission to cultivate cross-cultural learning between Indigenous populations and other communities.  For more information, please visit www.algomau.ca. 

About PowerED™ by Athabasca University
PowerED™ is an award-winning entrepreneurial unit within Athabasca University, that builds on the university’s rich history of online learning, flexibility, and accessibility.?PowerED™ embraces innovation and next-level learning. PowerED™ focuses on assisting organizations to develop and deploy their own digital learning strategies.?PowerED™ is committed to providing tangible tools and training to inspire breakthroughs—for individuals, employees, and organizations—with immediate impact. Power for Business. Power for People. Power for Good. Visit?PowerED.ca.