Classroom Cameras Revisited

The first week of classes seemed to fly by, didn't it? Amidst the usual start-of-semester chaos and trying to readjust to life on campus, many faculty also had their first experience with classroom point-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras that have been installed since the pandemic began. In the hopes of clarifying a few questions and concerns, I wanted to share the following points about the PTZ cameras (and classroom microphones):

• Not all classrooms have PTZ cameras and microphones. Those that do have them vary in the brand of camera and how it is controlled (touchscreen or remote control) and in microphone configuration. Although OIT is committed to getting all UHCL classrooms equipped with PTZ cameras and ceiling mics, that process is ongoing. In the meantime, faculty are encouraged to review the latest Classroom Cameras and Microphones List (FA21). In that spreadsheet, faculty can locate their assigned classroom(s) and see its current audio-video configuration.
• OIT is working with the vendors installing the cameras to address some issues identified as the semester began: (1) using the document camera causes remote learners to lose audio from the class, (2) faculty cannot use their own laptops/devices with the PTZ cameras, and (3) the presets described in the video, Video: PTZ Classroom Cameras Overview [4:26], were not configured in every classroom with the new cameras. We don't yet have an ETA for the resolution of these issues, but we'll provide updates via this weekly newsletter as more information is available.
• OIT's Support Center has received several complaints that the PTZ cameras don't clearly show the projector screen for remote learners. Faculty should not rely on the PTZ cameras to do so, as that is not within their capabilities. Instead, and as described in the video, Video: PTZ Cameras and Zoom: A Brief Tutorial [2:24], instructors should use Zoom's Share Screen feature to ensure that remote learners have a clear view of the contents from the computer monitor.

OIT provides support for in-classroom technology issues, including those experienced during evening classes. If you experience a technical problem while teaching on campus, please use the classroom phone and dial x2828. If you call before 7:30 PM (Monday-Thursday), an OIT Support Center technician should answer the call. If they are unable to resolve the issue on the phone, they will contact a member of OIT's Academic Computing/Labs staff to assist you in the room. If you call x2828 from the classroom after 7:30 PM, you will be prompted to "Press 3" for classroom support. Doing so will route your call to one of the Academic Computer Labs and a member of their staff can assist you.