AV Technology - October 2008 - (Page 38)

HOW TO EQUIP A LARGE-SCALE TECHNOLOGY integration projects can be costly and time-consuming, require crystal-ball peering, and demand everyone’s two cents. Few fit that definition better than smart classroom/training room projects. Entailing the introduction of AV and IT gear that permits ease of use, functionality, and flexibility that enhances teaching and instruction across multiple venues, shepherding those projects pose major challenges for technology managers. SMART CLASSROOM FOUR TECHNOLOGY MANAGERS DISCUSS THEIR APPROACH TO EQUIPPING A SMART CLASSROOM. By Tom Zind AV TECHNOLOGY: Getting instructors comfortable with smart classroom technology is essential. How important is training and instruction, and how do you address that in your organizations? Dave Corkum: We rolled out a classroom technology standards project five years ago to make it easier for faculty to operate the systems and encourage its use. But first and foremost was providing training so they’re comfortable using it. For new users we find one-on-one training is more effective than group training. The less technologically inclined start out slow typically, but once they see the advantages they embrace it in their teaching. Bruce Ritchie: A system that’s easy to figure out is the first priority. But at the beginning of each term we meet with the faculty and walk them through the systems and note any changes. Plus, two years ago we started offering a complete online guide to operating each type of room system. The descriptions are pretty detailed — a picture or drawing of the operational control system and where the buttons and cables are. Kevin Bradley: A staff development program is key. Too often, money is spent on this AV Technology asked four such managers how they approach smart classroom projects. Each has played a central role in rolling out extensive smart classrooms/training room projects in their organizations. Here’s what they had to say. WHO’S WHO David Corkum is the director of media technology services at Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA. Kevin Bradley is vice principal at Hoover High School, Fresno, CA. Michael Bialas is IT services administrator at Anadarko Petroleum, The Woodlands, TX. Bruce Ritchie is technical support supervisor/classroom design specialist at Northeastern University, Boston, MA www.avtechnologyonline.com 38 | AV TECHNOLOGY | october 2008 http://www.avtechnologyonline.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of AV Technology - October 2008

AV Technology - October 2008 Contents Precedent Corporate: Residential AV Does Not Equal Commercial AV Government: Funding Problems? Education: DIY ISP.EDU, Part Two The Cost of Bandwidth Star Grounding Wars Understanding IoIP How to Equip a Smart Classroom Two Rooms With A View From Primitive to Professional Product Review:�Visionary Solutions AVN 420 Encoder Product Spotlight: Document Cameras New Products Ad Index AV MO: Using Infrared Microphones

AV Technology - October 2008

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