The new lab will include a SMART Board. Daphnusia/Dreamstime.com

By Eli J. Ridder

‘Win-win’: CPA non-profit funds Medicine Hat College virtual learning lab

Jun 13, 2024 | 12:24 PM

The CPA Education Foundation in Alberta is funding a new flexible learning lab at Medicine Hat College that will improve learning options for accounting courses.

The new lab will include upgraded cameras, microphones, and a SMART Board, enabling multiple camera views and screen-sharing capabilities for virtual learners, the college said Thursday.

Associate dean and instructor Rick Robinson, who oversees the business administration diploma in the college’s business school, said the new lab will help virtual learners feel more integrated in the classroom.

“We are so thankful to the CPA Education Foundation for their ongoing support of flexible learning at Medicine Hat College,” Robinson said.

‘Prior to these upgrades, engaging virtual learners in computer labs was very difficult,” he added.

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“With these new tools, students who join class from a remote location will be able to interact with fellow-students and the instructor in a much more dynamic way.”

Remote learning has been successful in providing pathways to students interested in obtaining their CPA professional designation, Robinson said.

“There is a growing demand for accounting students in the region and we are proud to provide a pathway for our students to fill that void,” he said in a statement.

“By providing better flexible learning options, we aim to provide more students with the opportunity to take accounting programs and support our local demand. It’s a win-win for students and our region.”

Gordon Beal, an executive at CPA Alberta, said he looks forward to being involved in improving the education opportunities for students at the college.

“The CPA Education Foundation is committed to providing resources that enhance the quality and accessibility of post-secondary accounting education and to raise the profile of the accounting profession among faculty and students at Alberta colleges,” he said in a statement released by the college.

“We are thrilled to support Medicine Hat College in integrating virtual learners into their classrooms.”