World leader in the research, development and evaluation of online learning materials and services, Professor Diana Laurillard visited CQU this week to present a seminar and colloquium on the requirements and strategies of online learning.

Professor Laurillard is currently the Chair of Learning with Digital Technologies at the London Knowledge Lab, part of the Institute of Education, University of London.

Her book 'Rethinking University Teaching' has been widely acclaimed, and is still used as a set text in courses on learning technology all over the world.

Professor Laurillard’s visit was a prelude to her keynote speaker role at the Lifelong Learning Conference held at Rydges Capricorn Resort, Yeppoon, Queensland, from Tuesday June 13 to Friday June 16.

In her address Professor Laurillard asserted that digital learning technologies could be making a great difference to the quality and reach of lifelong learning if there was a supportive environment. This session proposed ways of bridging the gap between the technical learning design specification, and the reality of the teaching context.

“For new technology to make a real difference to the quality and reach of lifelong learning we need better ways of building collaborative partnerships between teachers, researchers, and technology providers,” she explained.

The Conference’s keynote speakers brought a range of national, international and industry experiences in lifelong learning.

Along with Professor Laurillard, they included: Associate Professor Andri Grace, Associate Professor in the Department of Educational Policy Studies, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; Professor Michael Dureau, Executive Director, Warren Centre for Advanced Engineering; and Associate Professor Peter Kell, Associate Dean Research, Faculty of Education, University of Wollongong.

Photo: Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Radloff (left) greets Professor Diana Laurillard before her seminar this week.