The following policies and guidelines were approved by ACAC in an effort to take a proactive, comprehensive approach to support technology classrooms and users.
The Academic Computing Advisory Committee (ACAC) is responsible for advising the CIO on the development of new and renovated classrooms to support the integration of technologies. ACAC approves classroom design guidelines including room layout and configuration, and recommends guidelines for usage and support. ACAC receives recommendations for new technology classrooms from academic divisions. New technology classrooms will be created yearly from a rank order list created by ACAC and based on available funding.
Standard configuration
The standard configuration of technology classrooms includes:
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ceiling-mounted data/video projection system (projectors) capable of supporting 1024 x 760 resolution in compressed mode, brightness 1000 - 1200 lumens;
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display screen(s);
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podium with storage for use with laptop computer;· VCR/DVD permanently mounted and stored in podium2;· network port for Internet connectivity located at
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the front of the room near podium;
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power at front of room;
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phased lighting, if room capable.
Standard configuration may be negotiated based on specific needs of academic divisions. Changing the standard configuration, however, may result in higher cost per classroom and reduce the number of new classrooms. ACAC must approve any changes to standard configuration.
An audio amplification system may be necessary depending on room size and will effect cost.
Technical Support and troubleshooting
Faculty should contact Computer Services Helpdesk to report any problems that arise with equipment or use of these classrooms.
Establish regular maintenance schedule
Establish rapid response system for emergency support
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Emergency help available to anyone teaching in a technology classroom.
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Instructors call Helpdesk. Instructors provide detailed information concerning problem and location (building and room #). Helpdesk staff respond within 5 minutes.
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Backup equipment will be brought in immediately if available. Placement of backup equipment in the classroom may require a different setup than an ideal situation, however, it will allow faculty to continue teaching. Backup equipment must be returned to the Helpdesk immediately following use to accommodate other users requiring emergency support.
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Install phones in each classroom to direct dial Helpdesk.
Helpdesk staff reserve the right to discontinue emergency service for any instructor(s) who display inappropriate behavior during the emergency response.Helpdesk staff will make every effort to provide emergency service quickly and professionally. In the past, situations have arisen where staff was embarrassed in front of students during efforts to troubleshoot problems. We understand that classroom equipment failure creates tension and frustration on the part of instructors. Please understand that Helpdesk staff is there to help you.
Provide logbook in podium
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Emergency phone numbers, instructions for equipment use, and troubleshooting tips included in logbook.
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Notes entered by users indicating troubleshooting tips and other workaround strategies.
Provide Orientation & Instruction
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Comprehensive orientation required for new users to technology classrooms.
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Individual room orientations held each semester providing updates about any changes made in the room or in equipment. Required for faculty new to teaching in a particular room.
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Individual room documentation, training materials, troubleshooting tips provided to users in a variety of formats (handouts, web pages, .pdf, etc.)
Faculty Training and Use
Each classroom has specific equipment including a remote control for use with the projector and a cable for connecting a laptop computer. All faculty who are scheduled to use a technology classroom must contact Computer Services Helpdesk to receive training. At that time faculty are given the specific remote control (with extra batteries) and the cable needed for the specific classroom. Faculty will keep this equipment for the entire semester. The Computer Services Helpdesk will contact faculty at the end of the semester to inventory the equipment and determine if faculty need to keep it for the next semester. Faculty must return equipment to the Helpdesk if they are changing classrooms and new equipment will be provided.
