High Speed Internet

CENTRE FOR DISTANCE LEARNING AND INNOVATION (CDLI)

The Centre for Distance Learning and Innovation in Newfoundland was looking to provide high speed Internet for its schools. The CDLI was founded in December 2000 by the Department of Education, in response to the recommendations of the 1999 Sparks-Williams Ministerial Panel on Educational Delivery.

Their Challenge
Traditionally in Newfoundland, distance learning for K-12 students has meant the independent use of specially developed student resources and real time student-teacher communications through a telephone-based audiographic system. Since all resources were print-based, updates were slow and expensive. The existing telecommunications system was also saturated and adding additional students was expensive.

The new model that Infosat helped implement is IP based, meaning it relies on the use of computers, networks and the Internet. It is immediate, easier to update, and provides a growing variety of types of content and ways of interacting. Access is not locked to a prescribed schedule of communications times. All content and communications are digital, allowing for a more seamless blending of traditional and newer forms of content and learning experiences. Learning is not limited to the course content.

The Result
Using Infosat Communications' Internet solution, Newfoundland students in five remotely located schools have the ability to use high speed Internet to access the curriculum. These E-Learners are able to gain valuable skills and capabilities while immersed in an environment of information and communications technologies.

Source: Centre for Distance Learning and Innovation, www.cdli.ca, February 2007