Tertiary grants to strengthen use of ICT

Tertiary institutions and communities across the country are set to benefit from $6.7 million in grants for projects that are aimed at building the use of computer and online technology in tertiary education, Education Minister Trevor Mallard announced today.

The government-funded e-Learning Collaborative Development Fund (eCDF) supports educators wanting to develop or enhance e-learning opportunities for students, and is administered by the Tertiary Education Commission.

"Our government is committed to helping develop innovation in the New Zealand economy, which is why we are funding research projects that further lift skills and knowledge in computer use, internet and online technologies that in turn help students in their education.

"Importantly, the projects also involve collaboration between institutions and industry organisations.

"The 15 projects that will be funded by these grants are quite diverse and range from workplace e-learning projects involving polytechnics and industry training organisations, to the development of online professional development resources for people who teach adult literacy and other foundation skills.

"A Massey University-led project involves designing a web-based system for students to get together from different tertiary institutions and join study groups and receive expert advice.

"Otago University is undertaking a project that aims to address a lack of any centrally maintained and managed, online information literacy resources that can be used use across the New Zealand tertiary sector," Trevor Mallard said.

Trevor Mallard today also announced the successful recipients of grants from the Innovation Development Fund.

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