Garry Forger
Academic Specialist
University of Arizona
Amy S. Metcalfe
Doctoral Student
University of Arizona
Veronica M. Diaz
Research Associate, Virtual Adaptive Learning Architecture
University of Arizona
A new instructional facility opened in January 2001 at the University of Arizona, combining architectural innovations in both information networks and physical spaces. The Integrated Learning Center (ILC) provides an opportunity for implementing experimental instructional technologies such as the Virtual Adaptive Learning Architecture (VALA) Project. VALA provides a personalized learning environment as well as a repository of reusable learning objects. Both the VALA learning network and the physical space of the ILC are designed to expand and enhance traditional classroom faculty/student contact. This innovation combines the expertise of library information specialists, instructional technologists, tutoring and mentoring services, faculty members, and peer student-to- student support.