New Times, New Names, Two New Branches!

In the summer of 2006, in recognition of the growing and diverse range of their respective stakeholders, the two main components of the Learning Technologies Branch were split into two separate branches—Learning Technologies Branch and Distributed Learning Resources Branch.

Learning Technologies Branch

The Learning Technologies Branch (LTB), formerly Learning Technologies Branch-Edmonton, provides leadership in advancing the use of technology in learning and is responsible for the design and development of digital learning resources to support program delivery.

The LTB staff maintains responsibility for the development and management of the LearnAlberta.ca portal and is also responsible for the development and/or acquisition of most of the digital resources available through LearnAlberta.ca.

The LearnAlberta.ca website provides engaging online resources to support the Kindergarten to Grade 12 curriculum in Alberta. Students, teachers, and parents can use the site to find multimedia learning resources that are correlated to Alberta Education's programs of study. New resources are continually being developed and added to the site.

Distributed Learning Resources Branch

The Distributed Learning Resources Branch (DLRB), formerly Learning Technologies Branch-Barrhead, provides leadership in distributed learning and is responsible for the development of provincially authorized distributed learning resources.

DLRB resources—both print and online—are designed in a modular format, with each module consisting of student-centred learning resources that motivate and guide students as they work through a variety of learning experiences, assessment opportunities and integrated multimedia.

What Is Distributed Learning?

Distributed learning is a model which offers multiple channels of learning and teaching through a variety of delivery formats and mediums—print, digital (online), and traditional delivery methods—allowing teachers, students, and content to be located in different, non-centralized locations. Distributed learning connects students with teachers across the province, and in so doing, provides choice, flexibility, and authentic learning experiences. Distributed learning includes all forms of learning where, by design, students and their teachers may be separated in time and/or space for some or all of their interactions. It offers the potential of exploring different relationships and building highly personalized and individualized learning opportunities for student success, as well as expanding teacher expertise to critically influence and support student learning. This definition does not preclude face-to-face interactions between students and their teachers.

How to Obtain DLRB Resources?

DLRB resources are available for purchase from the Learning Resources Centre (LRC). These resources are also available free of charge on the Tools4Teachers Web site.

The Tools4Teachers Web site provides multimedia segments and digital versions of print-based resources, which include teacher resources, assignments and answer keys. As well, the site provides some online courses. These online courses can be used as complete courses, but classroom teachers are encouraged to access these resources for use in their classrooms. All digital DLRB resources can be used by Alberta educators in the development of their own lessons, print or digital, and/or in preparing for upcoming courses.

Login and password access information for Tools4Teachers has been distributed province-wide to schools. If you require access to Tools4Teachers, contact your school administrator.

For a complete listing of DLRB resources, check Resources Available on the Tools4Teachers Web site.