Building Technology-Literate Organizations: Making Virtual a Reality

Abstract:

The keys to success in building a technology literate organization are threefold: engage faculty early, develop within a technology-enhanced learning network and capitalize on early successes. This paper describes how a collaborative approach with internal and external partners is essential in realizing the vision of an organization. The thrust of the study is on how technology can be everaged to accelerate the pace of faculty development and lead to an expanded capability of delivering training that is learning centered, available anytime, accessible anyplace, and responsive to the needs of consumers. The paper chronicles strategies and results achieved in all phases of development. SIAST’s experience confirms the importance of a collaborative framework, a solid technological foundation, a community of champions, and partnerships with internal and external stakeholders in developing into a successful e-learning institution. The approach has worldwide application and could serve as a blueprint for achieving a technology literate organization quickly with a modest investment in resources.

Authors:

Barb Bremner
Claude Naud

Barb Bremner is Director, Virtual Campus for SIAST. As Director, Barb leads a team of specialist instructional, technical and support staff that make up the cadre of the Virtual Campus. She oversees the development and delivery of online courses for students, as well as faculty and staff training in technology. She has played a key role in planning and building the organization's online distance education function and building a technology-literate organization. She has a master's degree in education, specializing in educational communications and technology, and bachelors' degrees in science and education from the University of Saskatchewan.

Claude Naud is the Vice President, Programs for SIAST. Claude has been a proactive leader in developing a provincial consortium in technology-enhanced learning. He has worked directly with Apprenticeship and other institutions in developing a model for integrating technology. Throughout his career, Claude has been a key innovator in the use of technology as an important medium for the delivery of education and training in the post-secondary setting. He has extensive experience in higher education with background in senior management, strategic planning, human resources and organizational development. He studied chemical engineering and nuclear power as an undergraduate and has a master's degree in education from the University of Toronto.

 

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