Classroom Technology Adjustments for the Fall of 2024
In the Fall of 2024, the university will begin a transition to a mix of traditional and “thinner” classroom technology standards. This is a strategic move to leverage the ubiquity of faculty laptops with the need for a more efficient use of classroom maintenance resources.
Over the summer 13 rooms will be upgraded from nearly 20 year old technology. Here are the major adjustment to the thinner classroom:
- A dedicated PC will not be included.
- Upgraded laser projectors which offer significant improvements with instant on/off capabilities, brighter images, quieter operation, eliminating the need for frequent bulb replacements and they are much more energy efficient.
- AirMedia and HDMI wall plates provide versatile connectivity options, ensuring compatibility with various devices.
- Ceiling-mounted speakers will deliver clear audio coverage throughout the room, enhancing the overall learning experience.
- Familiar control panels maintain a sense of continuity, easing the transition for faculty and students alike.
Planning
If you need a room with traditional technology, they will still be the predominant standard on campus and you can request a specific location when you are reviewing your semester plans. For adjunct faculty or students needing access to a computer, the provision of temporary loaner laptops through ITS ensures there are no barriers to the technology you need.
This thoughtful approach to upgrading classroom technology demonstrates a commitment to improving educational delivery while considering the practicalities of budget and resource allocation. ITS has worked with committees, faculty, and Deans to be sure we are covering needs as best as possible.
The list of thinner classrooms is as follows:
Palumbo
2208, 2224, 3020C, 3020D, 3020F, 3224A, 3237
Zurn
331, 343, 437, 445, 447
Center for Communication Arts
205
Background
There are still 40 classrooms on campus that have close to original analog equipment some of which is nearly 20 years old. The equipment as you may have found is not reliable, has limited compatibility and requires frequent visits from IT staff to support.
While we do have a replacement cycle budget it is simply not funded adequately to maintain all classrooms with existing technology. We see this as an opportunity to reduce replacement costs by thinning out the amount of equipment in the classroom. We have already eliminated the DVD/VCR’s and document cameras over the years, and now we see redundancy with the computers as an opportunity to be more efficient with resources. Since laptops are the standard allocation for essentially all employees, it can serve as the content source into the rooms.