HIU Upgrades Classroom Technology for Seamless Hybrid Learning

Equipping classrooms with reliable technology is essential to ensure seamless instruction for both online and in-person students. To that end, HIU upgraded classroom sound and display systems. Technology Support Associate Joe Chung, Interim VP of Business & Finance Ken Mullen, and outsourced IT partner Novus led the project.

The technology selection process involved multiple meetings with board members, faculty, and Red Thread, the vendor supplying the equipment. The following features were prioritized: at least one touchscreen in every classroom, upgraded speakers and microphones, and high-quality cameras.

The new system offers several functional improvements. Faculty can start Zoom meetings with a single button press. Video content can now be shared via HDMI instead of through the Zoom application, eliminating the lag previously experienced by online and in-person students when videos were streamed.

Space efficiency has also increased. Wall-mounted displays replaced bulkier standing units, resulting in approximately 25% more usable space in classroom 205. Additional space behind blinds in classroom 206 could yield a further 30% increase.

The system startup time has been significantly reduced. According to Joe, even in worst-case scenarios, the new equipment starts up quickly, which is especially important in the event of power outages or accidental shutdowns. He is currently developing printed step-by-step manuals to be placed in each room for user reference.

Joseph noted that the project allowed him to learn about sound mapping and camera auto-detection systems, which he believes will be beneficial for classroom instruction. 

He also stated that part of his ongoing role is to remain available to assist students alongside his IT responsibilities; the human connection should not be lost.

For example, Joseph helped MA in Chaplaincy student Eve Britton with Canvas and Populi on her first day on campus. Even with artificial intelligence, human connection and compassion when troubleshooting technological issues are important.