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UNB welcomes leading expert in accessible learning

Author: Communications

Posted on Nov 7, 2014

Category: UNB Fredericton

Sam Johnston, Harvard graduate and expert in cognition and instruction, is coming to the University of New Brunswick as a keynote presenter for the Universal Design in Post-Secondary Teaching: Reality or Utopia? symposium.

Hosted by UNB Fredericton’s Accessible Learning Committee in partnership with GNB and other New Brunswick post-secondary institutions, the symposium is for any and all educators and will take place on Nov. 9-10 at UNB Fredericton’s Wu Conference Centre.

Johnston, who lives in Lexington, Massachusetts, is currently a member of the professional staff at CAST—a non-profit research and development organization that works to expand learning opportunities for all individuals through Universal Design for Learning. As a research scientist, Johnston’s expertise is in peer-based learning models, distance and blended education, and program evaluation. Her primary research focus has been the use of technology-mediated peer-based learning to transfer knowledge amongst human services providers.

Universities across the country are placing more focus on improving academic achievement and student retention, which makes meeting the learning needs of students in today’s diverse classroom even more important.

The symposium, which will feature at number of speakers and workshops, will promote UDL principles and practices; and research the application of UDL methods in various post-secondary learning environments.

For media interview requests with keynote speaker, Sam Johnston; or conference organizer and director of UNB’s Accessibility Centre, Jody Gorham, contact Natasha Ashfield.

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