Leicester South MP and University of Leicester graduate to attend opening

The University of Leicester is investing in new dedicated facilities to ensure its staff enhances skills and knowledge of the newest developments in web technologies and e-learning.

The Beyond Distance Research Alliance’s Media Zoo provides University staff and associates with an environment to get to grips with all the ‘technological wildlife’ available for learning and teaching in Higher Education.

The Media Zoo offers training and expertise in everything from eBook readers, iPhones and podcasts to the 3D virtual world of Second Life.

The new Zoo will officially open on Friday 16 April at a special ceremony attended by Sir Peter Soulsby MP and Leicester graduate, and the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Sir Robert Burgess.

Simon Kear, Keeper of the Media Zoo, said:

“In its new and larger premises, complete with fully accessible facilities, the Media Zoo will continue to be a nationally recognised forum for educators and trainers to observe and experiment with emerging technologies.”

Professor John Fothergill, Head of Engineering at the University and an enthusiastic user of podcasting in his teaching, commented:

“The Media Zoo is a bright idea. It is an area where even those most timid of emerging technologies can observe and experiment in an environment that is non-threatening.”

The new Media Zoo will officially open at 1.30pm on Friday 16 April at 103 Princess Road East, University of Leicester.