Background
Town Plaza (TP) Global Learning Room had an analogue based audio-video (av) system which was installed in 2010. Because of its tiered layout, dual screens, confidence monitors and lecture recording capabilities, beside being used as a teaching venue, it is also used for events such as conferences and symposiums.
Scope of Work
Installed in 2010, infrastructure was ugraded to digital signals. Other upgrading works included replacing the teaching console, installing a writable projection whiteboard, confidence monitors, full high definition pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras, ceiling microphones for hands-free instructor and student participation and allowing remote teaching and learning by converting this to a Zoom Room.
a) Teaching console
The teaching console is customized to allow user ample space to place their document files or notebook.
b) Writable Projection Whiteboards with Short-throw Projectors
Short throw, lamp less-based projectors and writable projection whiteboards were installed.
c) Confidence Monitors
Two 55-inch LED Monitors were installed in the room to allow better viewing for the instructor. These allow the instructor to view the contents being displayed to students. By having two large displays, it allows versatility as two different contents can be shared at once. It also provide for dynamic and interactive teaching approach.
d) Full HD PTZ Cameras
Digital Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) cameras were installed for higher definition recording during hybrid mode.
e) Beamform Ceiling Microphones
To provide hands free audio support for both the instructor and students, the beamform ceiling microphones were installed in replace with the obsolete condenser ceiling microphones. The ceiling beamform microphones offered high quality audio capture and distribution. They were installed flush with the ceiling providing an unobtrusive and streamlined appearance.
f) Zoom Room
To further support hybrid mode of during lessons, Zoom Room was included in this installation. Some important features using Zoom Room is that it enables user to start a Zoom meeting with minimal fuss.
Zoom Room offers interactive features such as virtual whiteboards, chat functionality, polling and breakout rooms. These tools can enhance student engagement and promote collaborative learning.
Another highlight would be the screen sharing content. Both lecturers and students can ‘share screen’ their slideshows or documents in the room wirelessly and without connecting into the zoom meeting session. This promote an interactive and inclusive learning environment.