• Education Today - May 2012
  • Education Today - April 2012
  • Education Today - March 2012
RSS
Smart equipment for smart classrooms
Comment by Fraser McDonald, Visual Information Systems sales manager for Mitsubishi Electric UK
Published:  08 April, 2011

The last decade has seen a phenomenal rise the use of ICT equipment in education. The UK’s schools now lead the rest of Europe by a long way in the adoption of audio-visual and IT in the classroom. Something like 72% of UK classrooms are now equipped with one form of audio-visual equipment or another. The projector and interactive whiteboard (IWB) are probably as familiar to today’s students as the blackboard and desk were to previous generations. Now the challenge for institutions is not so much adopting radical new technologies and teaching methods, but learning how to use existing resources more effectively.

There are some interesting developments around the corner in the shape of large-screen multi-touch displays and projectors with built-in interactive pens that will make it even easier to incorporate technology into teaching plans. In other areas, we are seeing audio-visual equipment being employed intelligent building management systems. One example is the use of IP cameras which can analyse how a particular room is being used, automatically switching off equipment, lighting and heating if the room is unoccupied. There are even room booking systems which can learn usage patterns and schedule the most efficient use of facilities. Digital signage has also proved its worth in many schools and colleges, particularly in conjunction with the existing IT infrastructure, enabling better communication and better use of resources.

The key factors now are ensuring low overall cost of ownership, versatility and longevity. In these areas, audio-visual and IT systems have a substantial role to play.

Mitsubishi Electric Europe B.V.

01707 278684

http://displays.mitsubishielectric.eu




  • Click here to sign up to Education Today E-Alerts
Poll

Do you think girls should be taught to be realistic about their future?

  • Yes
  • No
  • Don't know

© Copyright 2012 Education Today. Datateam Business Media Limited. All rights reserved.
Registered in England No: 1771113. VAT No: 834 8567 90.
Registered Office: 8-10 Dryden Street, Covent Garden, London WC2E 9NA
Webmaster