UPEI opens state-of-the-art new learning facilities in Robertson Library

The University of Prince Edward Island has opened a new state-of-the-art Language Lab as well as a multimedia computer lab, known as the Collaboratory, in the Robertson Library for use by the university and Island communities

'The Language Lab uses the latest computing and learning resources to help with language training and the development of compelling learning materials,' says University Librarian Mark Leggott. 'We know students will quickly come to appreciate the opportunity to collaborate and build compelling learning material of their own.'

'The Government of Canada is proud to have invested in a dynamic, multi-media resource that benefits students and Islanders by strengthening language skill sets and other important areas of knowledge,' said the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency). 'Thanks to our government's Economic Action Plan we are investing in projects that are helping Canadians develop the skills they need to prepare for the jobs of tomorrow.'

The Language Lab consists of 30 iMac workstations loaded with internationally renowned Rosetta Stone language-learning software. Students will be able to learn English, French, Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, Latin American Spanish, Russian, Korean, Irish, Latin and Welsh.

The Language Lab will be used by the Department of Modern Languages to supplement regular classes as well as by English as a Second Language students. Students who are learning another language will be able to practice their conversational skills in that language, either individually or in groups. As well, the lab will be available to community groups when it is not being used for university classes.

Located next to the Language Lab is the Collaboratory, which is equipped with 16 dual-screen Power Mac workstations and other equipment. Students can create text, image, audio and video material for use in their courses and loading to the campus e-learning system.

In addition, the Collaboratory is equipped with audio-visual playback equipment, including turntables, VCR/DVD players and audio decks that can play older media such as LPs, VHS tapes and cassettes.

'This ensures that the ‘legacy' media in our collection are preserved and remain accessible to students and the general public,' says Leggott. 'Our archives contain many treasures that we want to preserve, such as a recording of Senator Ted Kennedy's Convocation address to St. Dunstan's University in 1964; a series of lectures by noted Island historian Dr. Francis Bolger in the early 1970s; and Convocation ceremonies over the years.'

The Collaboratory is an open facility, although some workstations may be designated for sign-up to ensure access when needed. Others will be openly accessible for drop-in use. Community groups interested in accessing the facilities are encouraged to contact Leggott at (902) 566-0460 or mleggott@upei.ca