St. Lawrence College Partners with eCampusOntario’s Extend Program to Advance Digital Teaching and Learning
eCampusOntario is committed to creating quality digital teaching resources that enable flexible and innovative learning environments
St. Lawrence College has recognized eCampusOntario’s Ontario Extend program as a professional development pathway for their faculty to gain essential digital teaching skills, meeting the demands of an ever-evolving postsecondary education sector.
Designed to complement existing teaching and learning programming, the Ontario Extend program offers six modules to help educators build digital fluency skills. These modules provide educators with activities to meet the needs of students in online and hybrid learning environments. Upon completion, participants receive digital badges, an “Empowered Educator ” micro-credential, and the tools, skills, and community to adapt and enhance their teaching practices.
“St. Lawrence College is pleased to endorse the Ontario Extend program, which offers our faculty a rich opportunity for peer learning and shared experiences among practitioners,” said Glenn Vollebregt, President and CEO of St. Lawrence College. “By integrating this program within our School of Contemporary Teaching and Learning we are demonstrating our commitment to continuous learning for our faculty and providing concrete opportunities to explore new methods of teaching that will give them access to emerging and innovative approaches to their craft.”
St. Lawrence College Faculty who complete the Ontario Extend program will have an opportunity to apply for a secondment opportunity as an Ontario Extend Facilitator within the School of Contemporary Teaching and Learning (SCTL). The seconded faculty will work alongside existing members of SCTL by delivering a version of the program to interested faculty and staff. This approach will enable St. Lawrence College to build its internal community for digital innovation and connect participants to a larger network of empowered educators.
“Ontario Extend is one of eCampusOntario’s flagship programs and is a key component of our 2021-24 Strategic Plan to support rich, equitable, inclusive and flexible digital educational experiences in collaboration with our member institutions.” said Robert Luke, CEO, eCampusOntario. “St. Lawrence College’s endorsement is a large step forward in building a digital framework throughout the sector. By equipping Ontario educators with opportunities to build digital literacy skills, we can help ensure that more learners access the knowledge they need to accomplish their goals.”
Digital badges and micro-credentials are stored in a virtual passport and can be shared through social media and LinkedIn to display one’s achievements, knowledge and skills. A recent survey of over 50 Ontario Extend participants revealed that 84% of participants were more interested in incorporating technology into their teaching practice.
Would your institution like professional development opportunities to advance faculty members’ digital education skills? Consider becoming an endorsement partner of Ontario Extend. Learn more about partner endorsement here.