The Education News Beat - Troy Media Corporation

EDMONTON, AB, September 22/ Troy Media/ - River Lot Number Five - an innocuous name for a piece of land covered with bush and wild roses that became the home of the University of Alberta in 1908. The University is currently celebrating its 100^th anniversary of achievements in public education. Looking back at the significant impact this institution has made on the province, it is humbling to know that it almost didn’t happen. To commemorate the centennial, The Heritage Community Foundation, in partnership with the University Learning Services, has created The University of Alberta Centennial History website.

The site of the University of Alberta Arts Building as seen in 1912

Don Sandberg

The residential school money pit

The residential school years were, without doubt, a terrible experience for some native students. One can only imagine the torment of being unable to escape one’s abusers. Today many still suffer the effects of being molested by those who preached right and wrong. But not all students suffered; some gained much by being able to attend these institutions. .... More

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David Seymour

Lack of competition threatens public education system's survival

The popularity of private competition among students is becoming a major challenge to universal public education. While the public education system drifts further toward a world of co-operative learning, children and parents are going in the opposite direction, opting for more competition. .... More

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Michael Zwaagstra

Too many computers in schools

It is commonly accepted wisdom in education departments across the country that it is vitally important for technology, particularly computers, to be fully integrated into classroom instruction in public schools. This has led to school divisions spending an increasingly large amount of money for computer systems and the training needed to operate them. .... More

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David Seymour

Rethinking environmental education

Recent polls indicate that the state of the environment is of major concern to most Canadian voters. Politicians toss phrases such as “climate change,” “global warming,” “reducing our ecological footprint,” “promoting energy conservation” and “going green” like children with a brand new toy. Considering its importance, it is reasonable for our public schools to educate students about the environment. .... More

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