Werklund School awarded for leadership in 21st century learning

There has been a dramatic change in teaching and learning, both in K-12 school systems and in the post-secondary environment. With the advent of new technologies and tools, and research that gives insight into the way students learn and teachers teach, education, in all its forms, is changing rapidly.

The Werklund School of Education has been at the forefront of this evolution in education for some time, and last week, it was recognized for its achievements by C21 Canada, an organization whose focus is the future of education.

Award honours new models of learning in Canadian education systems

C21 Canada: Canadians for 21st Century Learning and Innovation is a national, not-for-profit organization made up of national education associations, private sector companies and finance institutions with a mandate to advance new models of learning that the group believes must be adopted in education systems in Canada.

The C21 Canada Shifting Minds National Awards for Leadership in 21st Century Learning and Innovation are presented on an annual basis in the categories of individual, school, and system — the latter was the award the Werklund School recieved.

The award, accepted by Sharon Friesen, vice dean at Werklund at the University of Calgary on Nov. 4., is presented to a school district, board, organization or ministry supporting 21st century models of leadership and investment in rich information and communications technology educational environments where learning and innovation is evident.

Lynn Taylor, vice provost of Teaching and Learning, was also on hand to celebrate C21's acknowledgment of the recognition.

"I could not have been more delighted to see the Werklund School of Education honoured for its innovative approaches to truly collaborating to enhance the learning experiences of students and educators across many different communities," says Taylor.

Distinction given for team approach and student-driven emphasis

In presenting Werklund with its System Award, David Roberts, president and co-founder of C21 Canada, cited Werklund's forward-thinking philosophy and practice for the distinction.

"Canadian universities frequently have bold passionate philosophies, but fall short on the implementation and practice side," says Roberts. "Werklund's team approach and tenacious student-driven emphasis is laudable."

"We've very honoured to be selected for this important award," says Dennis Sumara, Dean of the Werklund School of Education. "Our focus is on research into the manner in which we teach and learn, especially as we move more deeply into this new era in education. To be recognized for our leadership in this area is gratifying."

Sumara adds he looks forward to growing the Werklund School's reputation by continuing with partners to affect change in education through research and innovation.