Through the DFI, OCAD is
- Addressing the needs of the expanding digital sector for highly qualified and creative leaders in business and research;
- Designing courses and programs to prepare students for careers in the knowledge and creative economies;
- Strengthening and broadening our research capacities in digital media and information and communication technology (ICT);
- Hiring new expert faculty, including a program chair and research chairs, to join the ranks of our existing top-tier leaders;
- Equipping our studios, research laboratories and virtual environ-ments with state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure in the context of a comprehensive mobile learning environment;
- Expanding our digital learning resources;
- Providing basic digital literacy to every student, faculty and staff member;
- Providing professional development opportunities to those who need to upgrade their skills;
- Integrating digital methods and honing business capacity to further creativity, innovation and competitiveness in digital media and ICT;
- Holding events, conferences and strategic think tanks in digital media, ICT and related fields;
- Creating world-class co-op and internship programs;
- Linking learning and research opportunities in digital media to other sectors such as green and clean technologies, the built environment, and health care; and
- Collaborating with academic partners to develop joint programs and courses, thereby giving students greater access to specialized faculty and equipment across a number of Ontario’s leading educational institutions.