Hi-tech teaching space launched
Published by Communications and Development
12 November 2009
The classroom of the future has opened at the University of Canterbury’s College of Education, giving students access to 21st century learning technology.
Accommodating 81 students, the interactive teaching space is arranged into nine pods each with three circular tables in a cloverleaf pattern. Each table seats three students with the ability to access a networked computer.
Work created in groups of three can be shared quickly with the whole group via three high-definition projectors.
The teacher wears a wireless microphone so that no matter where in the room the student is seated they can clearly hear the teacher’s voice thanks to ceiling speakers. A touch screen control at the lectern allows the teacher to control the projectors and Smartboard (interactive whiteboard).
Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education) Professor Gail Gillon said the new space was at the leading edge of innovation in teaching technology.
“It provides an excellent learning environment for students. The space facilitates lecturers’ abilities and integrates a range of technologies to support and excite students’ learning.”
Senior lecturer Lawrence Walker (Educational Studies and Human Development) said the space allowed small group interactions within a large group environment.
Mr Walker worked closely with audiovisual experts when developing the room to ensure the teaching space reached its maximum potential. He said every detail of the room had been closely examined to ensure the optimum learning environment was obtained.
“Students sit on office-type adjustable seats. The chairs are on wheels allowing easy movement of students around the pods for discussion purposes.
“The screens from the 27 computers can be shared with the whole class via the teaching station and projected in high definition, one at a time. The table surface is large enough so students can write or draw on paper and this output can be shared with the whole class via the document camera.”
Professor Niki Davis (Literacies and Arts in Education) said the ability to connect with remote participants was particularly useful. The computer system has full Internet access and Skype facilities allowing distance students to participate in lectures, overseas academics to lecture classes, and remote staff to sit in at staff meetings.
“For our professional development meeting in November, we’re aiming for someone from Rotorua, and maybe elsewhere, to join in virtually with the 50 or 60 staff who will physically be in the room. Then I can put those people up on the big screen and they can tell us what they have been investigating. So you can hear, see and engage with people who are off campus,” Professor Davis said.
For further information please contact:
Jeanette Colman
Communications Manager
University of Canterbury
Ph (03) 364 2260 or 027 233 0974
jeanette.colman@canterbury.ac.nz