Virtual Learning Award Winners Announced

Virtual Learning Award Winners Announced

WELLINGTON, 27 May 2014 – Some of New Zealand's top eLearning contributors and participants have been acknowledged in the inaugural Virtual Learning Awards in Wellington on the 15th April 2014.

The national awards were launched by the Virtual Learning Network Community (VLNC) and were presented by the Associate Minister of Education, Nikki Kaye.

The Virtual Learning Awards were sponsored by Asnet Technologies, who have been part of the journey alongside the VLNC network of schools, as part of helping to establish virtual learning in New Zealand.

During the Awards, Kaye spoke about the work of the sector, and the vision and passion she sees as essential in the ongoing efforts towards a brighter future for education in New Zealand.

Asnet Technologies played an integral part of the Awards, as well as the technology and connections for community and family members across the country to virtually attend the event via video conferencing, in the same way that their students attend off-site classes.

Eric Greenop, managing director of Asnet Technologies and guest judge, joined the VLNC delegates with several Asnet Technologies staff members including Richard Bishop, their head sales account manager, who is well known within the education sector.

"Our significant appreciation goes out to the VLNC leaders, ePrincipals, eDeans and eTeachers for their dedication, tenacity and focus in making real academic choice and achievement possible from anywhere in New Zealand in a constantly changing technology environment. The Awards highlight an outstanding example of what can be achieved when everyone is pulling in the same direction." says Greenop.

The Virtual Learning Award recipients are:

Virtual Learning Award for Innovation – Rachel Roberts for her work in the development of the VLN Primary within the VLNC, her work as the go-to for participants of the VLN Primary and the We-Learn website, and her guidance, management and advocacy for the VLN Primary.

Virtual Learning Award for Enabling eLearning – Madeline Campbell for her work in the field of eTeaching, where she has embraced the potential of the medium with unmatched commitment and enthusiasm. She is proactive in sharing her work across the VLNC, and is highly regarded as an educator amongst her colleagues.

Virtual Learning Award for Leadership – Carolyn Alexander-Bennet for her passion and dedication for the VLNC whanau, for online learning opportunities and maximising them for both rural and urban education communities. She exhibits admirable leadership qualities and advocates for the VLNC on many working groups and committees, as well as maintaining an organisational role.

Virtual Learning Award for Building Capacity – Jo-Anne Stuart for her professionalism and organisation skills in her role as E-Dean, and her advocacy for the benefits of the VLNC as a vehicle for ensuring students get the best of the opportunities that are available. She is credited with the growth in the number of students accessing courses through the Virtual Learning Network, and development and support for the eLearning student cohort.

Virtual Learning Award for Achievement – Kanyakon Kosinanonth (Maija) for her achievements as an exceptional, self-motivated and conscientious student. With Thai as her first language, Kanyakon has demonstrated incredible resilience to study multiple subjects via video conferencing in a second language, with great achievements. She also provides inspiration to others.

Virtual Learning Award for Achievement – Meghan Scanlan for her achievements as an exemplary student in both studies and sports, for her engagement in the school culture and being a young leader. She is very highly regarded in her school and community.
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