For ten years, the University of Toronto Scarborough Library has hosted the Digital Pedagogy Institute, creating a space for important conversations about the innovative use of digital technologies to enhance and transform undergraduate and graduate teaching and learning.
“The DPI started as a symposium back in 2014 as an opportunity to showcase the various innovative pedagogical approaches that were emerging at UTSC, from numerous departments on campus ” Paulina Rosseau, Liaison Librarian at U of T Scarborough Library. The institute emerged as a way celebrate various pedagogical innovations taking place locally, and to have a larger conversation with colleagues across various institutions.
During the symposium in 2014, U of T Scarborough Library connected with participants from Brock University and Toronto Metropolitan University and the suggestion emerged to create an annual event so that the vibrant conversations that had started could continue. Together, a successful application to the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Connection grant was made, with the symposium returning in 2015.
The conference continued to gain momentum with additional institutions, including the University of Waterloo coming onboard, and the conference has been hosted at all institutions over the past ten years, building strong connections between the partners. Today, the DPI is a partnership between the U of T Scarborough Library and Centre for Teaching and Learning, University of Toronto Scarborough, Brock University, Toronto Metropolitain University, and the University of Waterloo.
This year, the virtual conference will take place from August 13 to 15, and will include Keynote speakers Dr. Maha Bali, former ALA president Emily Drabinski, and Dr. Rua Mae Williams. DPI2024 welcomes registrants from all over the world to join and learn from keynote addresses, presentations, and workshops, and to join our vibrant discussions., with attendees from all over the world. You can register for the conference through the DPI2024 website, or directly through the registration form.
“Last year, we had 1,400 registrants globally, and the numbers are growing,” remarked Rousseau, “we will continue to offer it virtually, free of charge, so that as many people as possible can benefit from the conference.” We would love for you to join in the conversation!