Information and communication technologies are an important aspect of teaching and learning in today�s classroom. Technology improves the students� overall school experience. Given the rural nature of Newfoundland and Labrador, our province has been a leader in the use of technology and distance learning, particularly at the post-secondary level. That reputation continues to grow. I am pleased to inform this Honourable House that once again, Memorial University�s Distance Education and Learning Technology, or DELT, has won a national award.

For the second year in a row, DELT has been recognized by the Canadian Network for Innovation in Education. At an event in Ottawa last night, members of DELT�s Second Life Team, comprised of Marlene Brooks, Catherine Wicks, Jamie Chang and Donna Downey, together with Dr. David Murrin, were presented with an Award of Excellence and Innovation in Use of Technology for Learning and Teaching.

Second Life is a 3D virtual technology that can be used to create new and innovative teaching and learning environments. The award of excellence recognizes how well the Second Life team integrated the 3D technology into a typical engineering course, helping engineering students build a successful, working, virtual shipyard. The students became the designers and the engineers and their level of involvement enhanced their overall performance in the course.

Our government is a strong supporter of technology in the classroom, recognizing how well it can supplement teaching and learning. At the K-12 level, for example, we recently allocated $2.2 million for computer replacements and $1.5 million over a three-year period for a technology integration plan. At Memorial, $1.5 million has been allocated to increase the number of courses available through distance education. In addition, government has supported the implementation of a common cutting-edge technology for distance learning in the K-12 system, Memorial University and College of the North Atlantic.

Memorial University�s DELT is constantly working to keep the university and the province on the leading edge of new technologies. I ask this Honourable House to join me in offering congratulations to all those involved in this latest endeavour.