One of the primary objectives in the design of a distance learning classroom is to give students and faculty the perception of being together in one classroom even though they are physically located in different classrooms across the state. Large screen projection and high quality audio capabilities contribute towards this feeling. In addition, most rooms have been renovated to include special lighting and acoustical improvements to enhance the video images and sound quality. Basic multimedia capabilities are available in these classrooms. Macintosh and Windows computers are available with presentation software, spreadsheets, word processing and access to the Internet.
Document cameras can display visuals, objects and slides.
A VCR to play videotapes is standard and several campuses also supply laser disk players. All of this equipment is controlled with a user-friendly control panel. Classrooms seat a minimum of 30 students, and some are much larger. Board Room, One Beacon Street, Boston Each campus will have the capacity to originate or receive a minimum of two courses at any time. In addition, a distance learning classroom in the President's Office in downtown Boston will be shared by the five campuses to make UMass education more accessible to the residents and work force of Boston.