Laurentian University is pleased to announce a significant investment of $2.17 million associated with the Ontario's Training Equipment and Renewal Fund. This is a matching funding program to help universities renew and buy modern, state-of-the-art equipment and learning resources to enable high quality hands-on experiences.
These funds will support the establishment of a centralized hub for the hands-on training of students in STEM programs at Laurentian University. Located in the Perdue Analytical Facility on the Laurentian campus, this hub will integrate three key elements:
- a molecular analysis and characterization instrumentation core
- a virtual reality laboratory
- a multimedia laboratory for science communication
Integrating these elements in a single physical space will transform experiential, online and micro-credential learning experiences in STEM. The STEM hub will provide novel training opportunities to prepare students in a key employment growth sector in Ontario.
Dr. Eric Gauthier, the lead on this transformative project and Director for the School of Natural Sciences, highlights the positive impact on students and the broader community: "We are thrilled to receive this grant. This facility will provide students with modern scientific instruments, easing their transition to the job market. Our new Virtual Reality lab will introduce innovative teaching methods and enhance learning. Regional scientists and companies will use the VR lab to solve real-world problems. The multimedia lab will help scientists communicate their results and deliver course content, including microcredentials. This hub will foster collaborations among post-secondary institutions, science institutes, and tech-driven companies."
Dr. Brenda Brouwer, Interim Provost and Vice-President Academic, also shared her enthusiasm for the project: "This is a great news story and achievement made possible through the efforts of creative faculty with a shared vision of what next-gen teaching in STEM can be. We are grateful to the Ontario Government for investing and making this vision a reality."
The new STEM hub will transform experiential, online, and micro-credential learning experiences, providing novel training opportunities and preparing students for careers in a key employment growth sector in Ontario. Laurentian University remains committed to advancing education and fostering innovation through such impactful initiatives.
