Sennheiser and AVer help create the HyFlex solution at the University of Greenwich

This project aimed to improve hybrid learning and for its development, the audio solutions of Sennheiser, such as the TeamConnect Ceiling microphone 2, and auto-tracking cameras Aver.

Embracing the Digital Transformation Trend in Higher Education, the University of Greenwich has forged strategic partnerships with Sennheiser, brand that distributes Magnetron, and AVer to enhance the hybrid learning and bridging the gap between face-to-face and remote education.

With more than 125 years of history, This educational center has maintained its position as one of the best universities in the world. With more than 200 courses in Greenwich, Avery Hill and Medway in London and Kent, attracts students from the UK and abroad.

In the wake of the challenges posed by the global pandemic, The university was faced with the challenge of having to implement a type of hybrid learning. The Shift to Remote Teaching Through Microsoft Teams proved successful, But it presented challenges to engaging students effectively, as lower levels of concentration were achieved during very long sessions.

To address this, Mark Affection, Director of Digital AV Solutions, University of Greenwich, and his team spearheaded the effort to create a HyFlex solution State-of-the-art.

This innovation aimed to provide a seamless and inclusive learning environment for both on-campus and remote participants, ensuring that no student was left behind due to physical limitations.

The HyFlex solution also had to comply with building regulations, since the university's campus in Greenwich is situated within the Old Royal Naval College, an integral part of the Unesco World Heritage Site. In addition, the historic Queen Anne Building on the Greenwich campus is a listed building, which requires a dialogue with 'Historic England'’ Before making any changes.

"The HyFlex setup required a podium, Computers, Screens and a whiteboard, normal elements in a classroom", explains Affection. "In addition to, A crucial requirement identified during the lockdown was the need for a second monitor for the lecturer, which would make it easier to visualize the presentation on the one hand and that of the participants on the other".

Affection points out that the second screen needed to be replicated on a large monitor on the wall, In front of the podium, to ensure that remote students were visually present to both the rest of the remote audience and the speaker. "We hoped this would help foster a sense of inclusion.".

Building on that sense of inclusion, The team investigated what benefits could be provided by Auto-Tracking Cameras, and AVer's solution was chosen for its AI-powered functionality to detect, Automatically recognize and switch video between different speakers and zones.

A key requirement for the cameras was the ability to integrate with other hardware. A fixed microphone was identified as, On the speaker's podium, Not suitable for a group discussion, as sound levels were mixed. A handheld one would be too complicated to pass through the audience, So it was decided to install ceiling-mounted acoustic panel microphones, Centrally located.

the TeamConnect Microphone Ceiling 2 (Tcc 2) was chosen as the most effective option. The microphone can be integrated with AVer cameras using the PTZ Link Software Bridge, allowing both the camera and microphone to intelligently detect and track the active speaker.

"Given our extensive use of Sennheiser audio solutions, how Evolution Series and SpeechLine, We were confident in the technology their products offer for our classrooms and conference rooms.", explains Affection.

While CBT 2 was initially implemented in 24 Classrooms, four larger conference rooms and IT labs on all campuses, Later the infrastructure was expanded to four smaller classrooms. Here we opted for the ceiling microphone TeamConnect Roof Medium.

currently, The university is also testing MobileConnect with WiFi by Sennheiser, An innovative accessibility solution, Scalable and application-based, with the aim of incorporating it into the university's assistive listening technology facilities.

After Initial Installation, where the university collaborated with the audiovisual consultants Hewshott and the integrator Strive AV, Subsequent work came a year later, involving the same acoustic consulting service and integrator GVAV. At last, 2023 marked the collaboration between the university and AV consultants DramaByDesign, together with GVAV.

In response, Both university faculty and students quickly adapted to this experience. From an educational point of view, the AV solution opened up new possibilities, especially in scientific and technical courses, enabling even more sophisticated deployments. Remote participants noticed a more engaging experience, resulting in increased attendance and student satisfaction.

The AV setup achieved its goal of ensuring course continuity and enhancing the learning experience for all stakeholders. This was especially valuable for international students, as some were unable to travel to the UK but were able to participate in the learning discussions remotely.

In addition, The technology aligns with the university's goal of achieving zero carbon emissions by 2030. Affect observed a reduction in staff travel between campuses since implementation, And online meetings have become the norm. "Natural audio experience and auto-tracking don't hinder or stifle conversation", Designates.

"Our collaboration with the University of Greenwich has highlighted the importance of teamwork and shared expertise in shaping the learning environment", Patel concludes. "Sennheiser's TeamConnect ceiling microphones have been instrumental in ensuring a seamless educational experience by integrating with AVer cameras".

Other articles on Aver, AVer Information, DramaByDesign, GVAV, Hewshott, Magnetron, Microsoft, Sennheiser, Sennheiser Communications, Strive AV, University of Greenwich