Page 14 - 2021 OIT Progress Report

PROVIDING CLASSROOM TECHNOLOGY FOR EVER-EVOLVING MODALITIES
In preparation for the Fall semester, each classroom received a variety of technology components to help facilitate SMUFlex. The
focus during the initial upgrade was to ensure high-quality video and audio for the instructor, whiteboarding capabilities, and Zoom. As fall classes began, the need for audience microphones became more critical in providing an enhanced experience for the remote students, particularly in classes that rely heavily on discussion. After identifying and testing several different options, the University allocated additional funding to install technology in 62 classrooms for the spring semester.
The AV team rapidly deployed the mix of DTENs–an all-in-one video conferencing system, confidence monitors, and Meeting Owl Pros–a 360o camera, mic, and speaker combination–across campus. Our Training & Communications team and the ATSDs worked closely together to create training resources and instructions for faculty in using the new technology. Throughout the spring, faculty and students reported a much more robust
and engaging SMUFlex experience thanks to some creative instruction and the new equipment.
SMU Guildhall pushed the limits of these various technology installations to facilitate a highly engaging and collaborative interaction between their students—regardless of the student’s location. With so many international students in their program who were unable to return to the United States, Guildhall faculty explored ways to connect the students as they iterated through the gaming design process.
According to Steve Stringer, Deputy Director and Professor of Practice at Guildhall, “The level of tech in our new home allowing this to happen is astounding. Modality is now irrelevant. Remote teams can pitch to the room, the in-person team can pitch to the remote developers, and all can interact with each other synchronously. We can teach traditionally from the front of the room, work collaboratively regardless of location, morph into presentation/pitch mode, and throw any content to any screen in the room with a few clicks.”
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