Robin Kay, PhD
Associate Professor, Graduate Program Director | University of Ontario Institute of Technology
Oshawa, ON, CANADA
Moving the metre on the use of meaningful technology to enrich learning environments
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Biography
A fundamental shift in the education system from a predominantly curriculum-based platform to a problem-based, technology driven learning environment is necessary to stay relevant and connected globally. Robin Kay, PhD, Director of Graduate Studies and Professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) is advancing the use of technology to engage learning in face-to-face, blended, and online learning environments.
A cognitive science expert, Dr. Kay’s research program examines how technology impacts human behaviour in a variety of ways. Through UOIT's EILab, he is exploring the effective use of video podcasts in online learning and mathematics at the secondary school level. At the post-secondary level, his research focuses on the benefits of video podcasts in administering student feedback. He is also examining the qualities for effective e-learning in high schools; the challenges and benefits of virtual classrooms within UOIT, and the use of social media tools in the classroom. Another major area of his research looks at the effective use of web-based learning tools for mathematics and science students Grades 3-8.
Dr. Kay has published over 120 articles, chapters and conference papers on the role of technology in education and developed highly effective technology based tools to enhance learning across a variety of platforms. His popular video podcast learning object module has helped thousands of new university students around the world review mathematics concepts from high school; and his research on the benefits of classroom response systems has prompted hundreds of elementary and secondary school teachers to adopt their use to increase student engagement and participation. His extensive research on laptop use and web-based learning tools in preservice education continues to influence classroom use of laptops in meaningful ways.
Dr. Kay joined UOIT as an Assistant Professor at its inception in September 2003. Previously, he taught mathematics, computer science and technology for over 20 years at the high school, college and university level in Canada and the United States. Fascinated by the relationship between technology and human behaviour, Dr. Kay pursued post-secondary studies at the University of Toronto earning his Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Computer Science in 1984, his Master of Arts in Computer Applications in Education in 1988, and his Doctorate in Educational Psychology in 1996.
Industry Expertise (5)
Program Development
Internet
Education/Learning
Social Media
Research
Areas of Expertise (5)
Web-Based Learning Tools
Classroom Response Systems
E-Learning in Secondary and Higher Education
Video Podcasts
Laptop Use in Teacher Education
Accomplishments (2)
Director, Graduate Studies, Faculty of Education, UOIT (professional)
2013-07-01
Beyond his teaching and research, Dr. Kay aims to elevate UOIT’s Master of Education program to one of the top online programs in North America, creating a vibrant international community.
Professor, Faculty of Education, UOIT (professional)
2014-07-01
During his time at UOIT, Dr. Kay has received over $240,000 in research funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) and the Canadian Council on Learning. He is currently Dean of the Graduate Studies Committee and Chair of the Graduate Program Committee. Nominated for a UOIT Teaching Award, Dr. Kay previously served as an associate professor and an assistant professor.
Education (3)
University of Toronto: PhD, Educational Psychology 1996
University of Toronto: MA, Computer Applications in Education 1988
University of Toronto: BSc, Psychology and Computer Science 1984
Affiliations (1)
- Ottawa District School Board
Links (2)
Event Appearances (12)
Best Practices for Using Classroom Response Systems in the Mathematics Classroom
OAME Annual Conference - Think Big Toronto, Ontario
2013-05-02
Best Practices for Developing Effective Online Course in Mathematics
Ontario Association for Mathematics Education (OAME) Annual Conference - Think Big Toronto, Ontario
2013-05-02
Choosing and Using Web-based Learning Tools for the Mathematics Classroom
OAME Annual Conference - Think Big Toronto, Ontario
2013-05-02
Transforming your Mathematics Classroom with Video Podcasts (Jing)
OAME Annual Conference - Think Big Toronto, Ontario
2013-05-02
Exploring the Use of Laptops in Higher Education: An Analysis of Benefits and Distractions
E-Learn 2012 Montreal, Quebec
2012-05-03
A Model for Creating Effective Instructional Video Podcasts
Global Learn: Global Conference on Learning and Technology Virtual Conference
2012-09-24
A Model for Evaluating Online Learning in Secondary School Environments
The Sixteenth Sloan-C International Conference on Online Learning Orlando, Florida
2010-11-03
Evaluating and Using Web-based Learning Tools for K-12 Online
The Sixteenth Sloan-C International Conference on Online Learning Orlando Florida
2010-11-03
Best Practices for Delivering Effective Instruction in Virtual Classrooms
Ed Media 2010, World Conference on Educational Multimedia, Hypermedia & Telecommunications Toronto, Ontario
2010-06-30
Evaluating the Use of Instructional Video Podcasts for Middle School Mathematics Students
Ed Media 2010 Toronto, Ontario
2010-06-30
Examining the Use of Educational Video Clips on Distance Education
Global Learn Asia Pacific 2010 Penang, Malaysia
2010-05-17
Exploring the Benefits and Challenges of Using Laptops in Higher Education Classrooms
Global Learn Asia Pacific 2010 Penang, Malaysia
2010-05-17
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