Institute for Research on Learning Technologies York University

Institute for Research on Learning Technologies

IRLT Description

The Institute for Research on Learning Technologies (IRLT) has a broad mandate to engage in systematic inquiry, discussion, and information sharing related to the uses of technology in teaching and learning. Originally established in 1987 within the Faculty of Education as the Centre for the Study of Computers in Education, the Institute became a university-based research unit in June 2001 and was re-named. IRLT encourages the formation of links with faculty members across the university and with schools, government, and industry to provide collaborative, multidisciplinary approaches to research problems and issues. More specifically, the goals of the Institute are as follows:

  • To engage in research, study, and public discussion of issues related to the pedagogical uses of technology and to the moral, ethical, and educational implications of its use
  • To develop projects that make innovative uses of new technologies in teaching and learning
  • To maintain an active program to disseminate findings of its projects, its activities, and developments in the field to educators and other interested parties
  • To foster collaboration between academics, educators, and industry and government personnel on research and development problems and issues of mutual concern and interest

Although the Institute's mandate is to conduct research in public schools, postsecondary education, and lifelong learning, until recently most members focused their research on technology in schools. Over the past several years, however, members have increasingly directed their research attention to research and evaluation of instructional technologies in higher education and beyond.

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