The Centre for Teaching and Learning will report to the dean of the Faculty of Education under a restructuring plan announced Thursday by provost Leo Groarke.

The change is meant in part to address the University’s budget pressures, Dr. Groarke wrote in an e-mail to faculty and staff, phasing out the position of vice-provost, teaching and learning, once Alan Wright, the current occupant, completes his term.

“The University believes that this new working relationship will integrate, enrich, and re-orient the scholarship, pedagogical, academic, and technological expertise, and services of both units under one reporting structure,” Groarke wrote. “The partnership it produces is intended to improve the sustainability of both units, and to significantly contribute to teaching and learning both on campus and in the external educational community.”

He pointed to the potential for cross-collaboration to expand the range beyond standard K-12 education and university teaching to include such areas as: adult education; online, hybrid and other virtual learning contexts; informal learning; corporate training; inter-professional or international education.

Groarke said the faculty is beginning a decanal search, which will give a chance to look for candidates who can lead an academic unit that offers education degrees, and oversee the support and development activities provided by the Centre of Teaching and Learning.