Gordon Howell

Using Networks and Technology to Reinvigorate Tired Learning Spaces

QUT has been refurbishing old teaching spaces into modern problem-based learning spaces. These spaces have been designed to be affordable, supportable, sustainable and pedagogically ecumenical. The spaces incorporate student-provided devices, are underpinned by robust networks; both wireless and wired, and utilise the data network to deliver traditional AV functionality.
One of the key components of these spaces is the MObile Classroom On Wheels (MoCows). QUT has deployed in excess of 200 of these wireless enabled devices throughout the university.
The use of wireless networking and MoCows in conjunction with movable furniture has redefined the possibilities of the traditional classroom.
This presentation will look at the benefits gained and the lessons learnt.

Gordon Howell's Biography
Dr Gordon Howell is the Associate Director Learning Environments at Queensland University of Technology (QUT). In this role he is responsible for the MOE of the universities 8500 staff and public access computers and strategic direction and support of the university’s 300 learning spaces.
He has had in excess of 20 years’ experience within education and technology management; having worked as a Research Fellow at the University of Queensland; Associate Director and Acting Director IT at Australian Catholic University, Chief Technology Architect for Divine Word University PNG, and principle designer of PNGARNet.
His particular area of interest is appropriate technology deployment supporting the learning paradigm of social constructivism.