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LEARNING NETWORK QUEENSLAND (LNQ)
(Formally Queensland Open Learning Network)
Summary
Through a network of community-based Open Learning Centres the Learning Network Queensland has stimulated the uptake of new communication and information technologies in regional, rural and remote Queensland, and provided local access to a wide range of online learning opportunities.
Context
Learning Network Queensland (LNQ) is a twelve-year-old initiative of the Queensland Government. LNQ operates approximately 50 Open Learning Centres in regional, rural and remote areas of Queensland, providing 24 hour access to on-line and off-line communication and information technologies for local communities.
Managed by local coordinators, each centre provides a range of services including:
- Internet and videoconferencing.
- Audiographic conferencing, teleconferencing and television broadcasting or narrow casting.
- Information on courses, providers, and enrolment processes.
- Technology induction and familiarisation services.
The centres offer people a quiet study area away from home, supported by high level technology, interaction with other learners and assistance from the centre coordinator.
LNQ’s core business is not online delivery of training. Its main role is to assist online learners by facilitating partnerships with provider organisations which take responsibility for delivery. The Open Leaning Centres also operate as assessment centres for their partner organisations.
Key Features
Audiographic conferencing
LNQ is a world leader in audiographic conferencing. This service has the advantages of being both cost effective and educationally sound. All Learning Centres are equipped to provide audiographic conferencing and the data bridging happens at LNQ T120 server. In addition to the Learning Centres, LNQ can also provide audiographic conferencing to any location that has an Internet connection and an additional telephone line.
Internet access
The Learning Centre Internet access capability is implemented so that a uniform level of service can be provided across Queensland. A Learning Centre user purchasing a block of Internet access time can use
it;
- at any LNQ centre, and
- any time during the day or night.
Video conferencing
ISDN-based videoconference facilities are available in a large number of centres. As local requirements determine deployment, some units are kept in reserve to be shipped to sites as needs arise.
Laptop laboratory
To extend the capacity of smaller Learning Centres and to provide technology access to communities with no Learning Centres, LNQ has created a completely portable laboratory of 10 laptop PCs. The laptops in the laboratory have shared Internet access and the complete system has proved to be very popular. Five more laboratories (50 laptops) are currently being developed.
Coordinator development
Coordinators operate within a team structure. All new coordinators go to Brisbane for a formal induction, while six have been identified as group coordinators. They provide peer support and leadership, and act as mentors to newer/less experienced coordinators.
Future Plans
LNQ is an effective change agent for the uptake of emerging technologies in the rural and remote areas. Chief Executive, Anne
Gooley, is a Flexible Learning Fellow and is focussing on change management through strategic partnerships with a wide range of organisations such as, the universities and VET providers. As core government funding diminishes, LNQ is by necessity becoming more self-funded, diversifying its activities and taking on various government policy consultation contracts.
Key Messages
- Although information technology is becoming more and more pervasive, there is still a need for strategic initiatives to promote access to online learning opportunities for all.
Contact
Anne Gooley (CE)
a.gooley@LNQ.net.au
http://www.LNQ.net.au
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