ALL SYSTEMS GO FOR VIRTUAL EDUCATION

A new age of global education will begin on 19 June when the University of New South Wales, the Imperial College in London and Mahanakorn University of Technology in Bangkok launch their virtual learning laboratory.

"The laboratory, which spans time zones and distance, draws together three of the world's top ranking engineering universities in a high-level exchange of knowledge and resources in a real-time, technology-intensive environment," said Professor Branko Celler, head of the UNSW School of Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering.

UNSW's Virtual Lecture Room has been equipped with video facilities to broadcast audio and video images and the content of an electronic whiteboard across multiple sites around the globe. High-speed data connection, satellite and video streaming will provide a true interaction between lecturer and students, enabling a sharing of resources and knowledge, Professor Celler said.

Sir Richard Sykes, Rector of Imperial College, will launch the virtual lab with a lecture on the future of health care. An interactive Q & A session will follow the lecture with participation from students and guests in London, Sydney and Bangkok.

"Technology has an ever-growing influence over the delivery of education and, with the launch of the virtual lab, UNSW, the Imperial College and Mahanakorn University are leading the way," Professor Celler said.

WHAT: Launch of the UNSW, Imperial College and Mahanakorn University Virtual Learning Laboratory
WHEN: Tuesday 19 June at 6.30pm
WHERE: UNSW Virtual Learning Laboratory, Room G3 Electrical Engineering Building, UNSW Kensington Campus. (Enter via gate 14 off Barker St, Kensington)

CONTACT DETAILS: Professor Branko Celler, School of Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering, tel. 9385 4009 or Victoria Collins, UNSW Public Affairs and Development, tel. 9385 3644.