Classroom Technologies Design Group

Consultation, Project Management, and Experience

Whether planning for new construction or renovating an existing learning space, NUIT's Academic & Research Technologies (A&RT) Classroom Design Group offers a full complement of consulting services to aid University schools and departments in making informed decisions regarding audio-visual and presentation technologies and room-based videoconferencing solutions.

Having designed and led the implementation of over 100 technology-based seminar and classrooms and auditoriums on the Evanston Campus, the Classroom Design Group with its team of experienced AV Engineers can provide a grounded and realistic perspective on room design for everyday use, as well as tested and reliable equipment recommendations.

Learning Space Design Consultation

Existing Learning Spaces

The Classroom Design Group consultants meet with schools and departments to review an identified space and perform a needs assessment.  This includes a dialogue about the pedagogical and general use requirement of the space, the current technologies available, and recommendations for technology improvements.  Other important considerations for early planning and development include a timeline, goals, and budget projection, as well as discussion related to ongoing operational support.

New or Renovated Learning Spaces

Members of the Classroom Design Group are also available to meet with architects when planning learning spaces for new buildings or when entire floors or rooms are being renovated. AV Consultants within the group can review drawings and recommend electrical and cable paths based on the anticipated technology, networking needs, and lighting.  

Although some projects and departments will hire their own non-University AV consultants, there is value added by including the A&RT AV Engineering team, especially in the early stages of construction and planning. There is no charge for this consultation service.

Project Management and Design

Project management services for the development and implementation of school or department spaces slated for technology improvements are available on a contract basis. These contract services include but are not limited to:

• Room analysis
• Evaluation of specific presentation technologies available
• Fully developed recommendation and proposal
• Comparative evaluation of vendor bids (sent to at least 3 vendors)
• Collaboration with and oversight of work required by Facilities Management
• Oversight of the AV installation
• A tested end-product
• Customized documentation on use of the system

All project work is planned and completed based on an expected time frame and NU standards.

General Standards for Audio Visual Classrooms

• A 3000+  Lumen, ceiling mounted WXGA projector
• Projection screen - Da-Lite Model C with Controlled Screen Return (CSR)
• Laptop connectivity and projection
• Network connectivity
• Audio speakers and stereo components for quality sound
• A user-operable control system for selecting sources.  The type and model of control system will depend on the number of sources that are integrated into the system. This is generally a Crestron manufactured product.
• Auxiliary Audio and Video Input
• System integration, design, engineering, and installation
• Security cables and alarm
• A telephone (to call for assistance)

Other options include but are not limited to:

• Dual-boot Macintosh with Windows Vista
• Resident networked Macintosh or/and PC with DVD player.
• Stand-alone multi-region DVD player
• Voice reinforcement if needed (a podium, wireless handheld or/and lavaliere microphones)
• Digital Document Camera
• Remote monitoring of hardware using Crestron's RoomView and eControl network software to ensure system components are functioning as expected and to offer an additional level of security.

General Standards for Videoconferencing Facilities

Room-based videoconferencing equipment standards vary dramatically and depend on the specifics of the room, budget, and planned use.  A consultation is highly recommended.

Learn more about videoconferencing services at Northwestern.

University Schools and departments interested in learning more about any of these services, please contact: Kathy Leoni, Project Manager, Classroom Support,NUIT Academic & Research Technologies