The Centre for Instructional Technology and Multimedia (PTPM) of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has established strategic ties with the School of Education, Murdoch University (MU), Perth, Australia, aiming at sharing academic expertise and the technical aspects in relation to audio-visuals (AV).

The cooperation was established with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 3 August at MU, Perth.

"From this MoU, both institutions would work together in several main areas including academic programmes, students exchange, publications and research, focusing more in the field of instructional technology and AV technical knowhow," said the Director of PTPM, Associate Professor Dr Wan Ahmad Jaafar Wan Yahaya in representing the USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Datuk Dr. Asma Ismail.

"The PTPM delegation was also briefed on the latest technology in teaching and learning, utilising advancements in 'avatar' and 'robotics' which could be of benefit to the academic staff at the university, especially in the teaching of education students on aspects of micro-teaching," he added.

With the signing of the MoU, a staff development programme was also held on the sharing of knowledge and expertise in instructional technology. The programme was conducted by the staff from the Centre for University Teaching and Learning. There was also a tour of the tutorial and lecture halls to look at the latest AV technology and equipment, library technology and also the students' residence halls, more specifically for the international students.

Also present were the MU Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International), Professor Lyn Karstadt, Dr. Susan Ledger, Fozzil Jaffar, Suzanne Smith (MU Director of International) and PTPM academic, administrative and technical staff.

Translation: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin/Photo: Courtesy of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wan Ahmad Jaafar Wan Yahaya