U of S a world leader in application of technology to teaching

Posted June 23, 2003


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - 23th June, 2003 2003-06-09-OTHER

U of S a world leader in application of technology to teaching

The University of Saskatchewan has been designated a world leader in its
innovative use of technology for teaching and research.

The designation - New Media Centre - was awarded by the New Media
Consortium (NMC) after a world-wide search for excellence among colleges,
universities, museums and advanced technology companies.

The designation means that the U of S will become part of a vibrant
community of innovators across the world which will help set the agenda for
technology in higher education.

University President Peter MacKinnon said: "The University of Saskatchewan
has an uncompromising commitment to quality and international standards. I
am delighted that our innovative use of technology for teaching and research
has achieved international recognition and respect."

The U of S joins 125 prestigious colleges, universities and museums who have
received the designation in the past. These include MIT, Princeton, Yale and
Harvard universities.

Larry Johnson, president and CEO of the NMC said: "The selection process is
very competitive - we received the largest number of applications in our
history, and the overall quality of those applications was extraordinary.

"Even among a very strong field, it was quite clear that the University of
Saskatchewan is a place where smart creative people are devising innovative
solutions to challenges we all face in teaching and learning. The dedication
to excellence is palpable, and students and faculty are the clear
beneficiaries."

The Division of Media and Technology at the University of Saskatchewan was
notified of the successful appointment and Director Danielle Fortosky said
that: "This designation will mean new international opportunities and
partnerships to help us advance our academic goals at the U of S through the
use of innovative technologies.

I am pleased and proud that our Division played a leadership role in
achieving this designation and was an integral part of this process."

NMC is a not-for-profit organization that connects colleges, universities,
museums and advanced technology companies that are working to define and
explore new ways of teaching, learning, research and creative expression.

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For further information, contact:

Peter Mackinnon
President
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-6612

Danielle Fortosky
Chief Administration Officer/Director
Division of Media and Technology
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-4259
Website: www.dmt.usask.ca