The University of Greenwich has strategically partnered with Sennheiser and AVer to elevate its hybrid learning experience.
The higher education institution leveraged AVer's cameras and Sennheiser's audio products and services, namely its TeamConnect Ceiling 2 (TCC 2) microphone, to create an innovative "HyFlex" solution.
During the pandemic, the University transitioned to remote learning via Microsoft Teams reasonably successfully but found new challenges, including fatigue and decreased concentration levels. Mark Affection, Head of Digital AV Solutions at the University of Greenwich, and his AV team designed HyFlex to create a cohesive and equitable learning experience for both on-campus and remote participants.
“The HyFlex configuration required a lecture podium, computers, visualisers, and a whiteboard - typical classroom elements,” Affection told Sennheiser. “Additionally, a crucial requirement identified during lockdown was the requirement for a second monitor for the lecturer, facilitating presentation display on one side and participant viewing on the other."
How HyFlex Was Assembled
The second monitor also had to be mirrored on a large display monitor on the wall facing the podium to ensure remote students were visually part of both the remainder of the remote audience and the speaker, aiming to "foster inclusivity," as Affection described.
To add that inclusivity, Affection and his team researched Auto Tracking Cameras, which led them to invest in AVer's cameras because of their AI functionality in detecting, recognising and switching video dynamically between different speakers and different areas.
The next step was identifying what hardware would work with the cameras and reasoned that fixed and handheld microphones wouldn't work well, eventually deciding on centrally placed, ceiling-mounted acoustic panel microphones. Sennheiser's TCC 2 mic was chosen as the optimal product and could offer integration with AVer cameras through the PTZ Link software bridge so the camera and microphone could detect and track the active speaker.
