Classroom Technology Modernized in Meiling 112

Last winter, the College of Medicine reached out to Learning and Collaborative Environments (LCE) in OTDI to assist with an audiovisual technology upgrade in one of its large, 254-seat lecture spaces in Meiling Hall. The college was interested in leveraging the AV standards that the LCE team has developed for approximately 310 classroom pool spaces across the Columbus campus.  

The Meiling system was completely redesigned. Most notably, it now can better support a remote experience for students and can produce higher quality recordings. Improvements include:

• Multiple cameras, with tracking for the instructor at the front of the room
• Video integration with the lecture capture system
• Dual monitors and document camera
• High-quality laser projector and 22.4 ft screen for a brighter, crisper image
• New speakers and audio digital signal processors (DSP) to enhance audio
• System infrastructure that provides flexibility to easily expand functionality (Audio-Visual over Internet Protocol - AVoIP)
• UX designed touch panel for intuitive user experience
• Height-adjustable lectern to address accessibility for presenters

The framework that LCE has developed for standardized AV systems is modular so that it can be adapted to any size classroom and a wide variety of functionality needs. A UX designer has created the graphics used on the control panel for each system. These are streamlined and accessible, making it intuitive for users. Standardizing systems also make support easier and scalable. 

With their specific AV expertise, the LCE team serves as an internal resource, aligning vendors to standards, reviewing quotes, and assuring a quality installation in the space. Through their involvement, the college saved approximately $20,000 in equipment costs and vendor design and programming time. 

With this success, planning has begun for the same type of overhaul in the adjacent Meiling lecture hall.