The semester started in high definition for the faculty and students using the Strosacker, Schmitt and Ford auditoriums. Over winter break, Information Technology Services (ITS) worked with Campus Planning and Facilities Management to complete significant upgrades and improvements to the technology-enhanced classroom (TEC) specifications of these three large, frequently used classrooms.
In addition to the standard TEC Level 2HD equipment, such as Blu-Ray players, video projectors and more, auditoriums received high-definition (HD), high-lumen projectors; new audio systems; wireless instructor microphones and instructor touchscreens to control the TEC components. Strosacker also received a dual projection system, which allows instructors to share two images (such as the computer screen and document projector) with the class at once, and a new lighting system to illuminate the chalkboard. Ford Auditorium received its TEC components for the first time, which makes it an additional meeting space for large classes. All three auditoriums now have FM transmitters for the use of individuals with personal hearing devices as well as video-capture equipment for use with MediaVision Courseware.
During winter break, ITS also made upgrades to 14 Level 2 classrooms, bringing them to Level 2 HD standard. These technology-enhanced classrooms now include HD projectors, Blu-Ray players and easy-to-use instructor touchscreen controls. In addition to controlling the TEC components, the touchscreen enables live annotation of any image projected on the classroom’s screen.
Faculty members’ feedback played a primary role in selecting the improvements for these spaces. Surveys of students also continue to demonstrate the importance of technology in the classroom. ITS plans to continue to provide upgrades and improvements to learning spaces as technology tools and their applications change.
For the convenience of instructors, laminated cards with directions for using the classroom technology are attached to each TEC lectern. Questions about the technology and training opportunities can be directed to Academic Technology and Faculty Support co-leaders Tina Oestreich and Mike Kenney.
For more information on the TEC program, including a list of available rooms and helpful instructions for faculty and staff, visit the TEC website.