The University of Greenwich has partnered with Sennheiser and Aver to improve hybrid learning experiences for its students.
Recognised by the QS World University Ranking as one of the world’s top university’s, the UK-based university had been struggling to effectively engage its students since implementing remote teaching via Microsoft Teams during the pandemic, with concentration levels appearing to wane during longer sessions.
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To solve this challenge, Mark Affection, Head of Digital AV Solutions at the University of Greenwich, and his team launched the ‘Hyflex’ solution initiative, which is a learning environment designed to maximise learning for both on-campus and remote participants.
Affection believes the new hybrid learning technology is here to stay: “Out of a dreadful situation like COVID-19, positive and intriguing developments have emerged in how people engage with these technologies, which I don’t see us reverting from.
“Necessity forced this change, and people have embraced and become accustomed to these technologies.
“Feedback from non-remote rooms indicates that the HyFlex configuration is the new normal. ‘We want the cameras; we want the microphones and dual screens’, they say. Our aim is to continue working in this manner.”
The Hyflex Solution
The Hyflex solution is composed of a lecture podium, computers, visualisers, and a whiteboard, plus a second monitor for the lecturer that allows for one half to be used as a presentation display and the other to view remote participants.
The presentation and participants were also shown on a large monitor facing the podium so that all the remote students could be seen by one another and the speaker to cultivate inclusivity within the classroom.
AVer’s Cameras
Affection’s team also researched the benefits of Auto Tracking Cameras and ended up choosing Aver’s camera solution based on its AI detection, recognition and speaker-switching technology.
Another essential criterion that Aver’s cameras met was the ability to integrate with other hardware, so that the team were able to install centrally positioned, ceiling-mounted acoustic panel microphones.
Sennheiser’s Audio
Sennheiser was reportedly selected for its reputation as a trusted industry leader.
The Sennheiser TeamConnect Ceiling 2 (TCC 2) was picked out as the best option, which was also able to be integrated with the Aver cameras via the PTZ Link software bridge that enabled the camera and microphone to track the active speaker.
Affection said that following a test of the TCC 2 solution with two representatives from Sennheiser, he and his team were “thrilled” with the performance.
The TCC 2 was deployed in 24 classrooms, four large lecture theatres, and IT labs across all campuses, with a TeamConnect Ceiling Medium ceiling microphone added for four small classrooms.
Greenwich University is also piloting Sennheiser’s WiFi-enabled MobileConnect, an app-based accessibility solution for its assistive hearing technology facility.
Inesh Patel, Business Development Manager, Business Communication at Sennheiser, commented on its partnership with the university: “Our collaboration with the University of Greenwich has highlighted the significance of teamwork and shared expertise in shaping the learning environment.
“Sennheiser’s TeamConnect Ceiling microphones have been instrumental, ensuring a seamless educational experience by intelligently integrating with AVer cameras.
“Our joint efforts underscore the importance of innovative solutions in advancing education, and we’re excited about its continuing impact on the future of learning.”
The AV solution has opened up new possibilities, particularly within scientific and technical subjects, and remote participants have said they are more engaged, which has led to higher attendance levels and increased student satisfaction.
The technology is also helping the university to meet its 2030 zero carbon emissions target.
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