Our mission

The Laboratory for Innovative Technology in Education (LITE) provides pre-service educators with cutting-edge resources as well as training, support and experiences that enable them to utilize existing, modern and innovative instructional technology tools and pedagogical practices, creating inventive and transformative learning environments that facilitate and maximize student engagement, creativity and learning.

Explore the LITE

Located in McLure Library, the Laboratory for Innovative Technology in Education (LITE) is a dedicated educational technology space designed to prepare future educators to teach, create, and innovate with confidence. More than just a technology lab, LITE provides a flexible environment where students can explore emerging technologies, collaborate with peers, and gain hands-on experience with the tools shaping modern classrooms.

The facility features three distinct areas designed to support learning, exploration, and collaboration:

Classroom
A dedicated instructional classroom provides space for large-group workshops, course activities, professional development sessions, guest presentations, and hands-on technology training. This flexible learning environment allows students and faculty to explore innovative teaching strategies while gaining experience with emerging educational technologies.

Makerspace
The Makerspace houses a large and growing collection of educational technologies and creative tools available for exploration and classroom integration. From robotics, virtual reality, and podcasting equipment to 3D printing, assistive technologies, and other instructional resources, the Makerspace encourages experimentation, creativity, and problem-solving through hands-on learning experiences.

Connection Hub
The Connection Hub offers a comfortable, casual meeting space where students, faculty, and community partners can gather to collaborate, exchange ideas, and build meaningful connections. Whether discussing lesson ideas, planning projects, or simply exploring new technologies together, the Hub provides a welcoming environment that fosters creativity, innovation, and professional growth.

Together, these spaces create a vibrant center for educational innovation where future teachers can learn, create, collaborate, and discover new ways to engage students through technology.

Contact Us

Address: 918 University Blvd. Tuscaloosa, AL 35487

Phone Number: 205-348-5168

email: jhardin@ua.edu