Executive Summary



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Blended Learning/Video Committee

Findings and Recommendations

May 12, 2008

1. Introduction 2

2. Executive Summary 3

3. Our Key Findings 5

4. Technology Synopsis 7

Polycom 7

Media Site Live 8

Adobe Connect 9

Elluminate Live! 10

5. Opportunities to Enrich the Adult Learner Environment 11

6. Additional Methods for Video Distribution 15

7. Appendix A: Committee Roster 17

8. Appendix B: Penn State Video Conference Systems per Campus 18

9. Appendix C: Penn State Video Conference Systems per Technology 23

10. Appendix D: Campus (Non-UP) H.323 Videoconference Systems 26

11. Appendix E: Video Technology Comparison Chart 27

12. Appendix F: Faculty Guide to Teaching through Videoconferencing 32

13. Appendix G: Initial Charge Document 40

1 Introduction

The growth and success of Penn State’s World Campus has demonstrated that a strong market exists for 100% Online Instruction. However, there may also be a significant market of learners who would appreciate a hybrid course model whereby learners could leverage online delivery and also have periodic opportunities for face-to-face interaction with their instructors and peers. It is important to recognize that learning environments should not be considered zero/sum and that growth in hybrid courses does not necessarily translate into a reduction in demand for online instruction. Both delivery formats could grow concurrently and successfully serve different market segments with different learner profiles and educational demands.

By way of definition, four methods of course delivery were considered:

 

1. Face to Face Instruction – 100% of instruction is delivered in a face-to-face environment.  Historically, Face to Face Instruction has been the most common method of course delivery.

 

2. Online Instruction – 100% of instruction is delivered in an online environment.  Although technology can offer the ability to see and interact with the instructor in real-time, learners do not physically congregate at a common location for instruction.

 

3. Blended Programs – when a group of courses are offered within a larger program umbrella.  Some courses are offered as Face to Face Instruction and other courses are offered as Online Instruction.  With Blended Programs, individual courses are either 100% Face to Face or 100% Online.

 

4. Hybrid Courses – an individual course where at least 40% of the material is delivered in an Online format.  The remaining instruction is delivered as Face to Face Instruction.

As stated in the initial charge document, “the objective of this committee was to determine how Penn State Continuing and Distance Education can become a significant provider of blended learning and video based courses and programs across the Commonwealth and beyond”. With a 24-campus system, Penn State has a unique opportunity to offer video-based delivery of courses to learners geographically dispersed throughout the state.

In terms of project scope, the committee focused on the equipment and available technologies required to deliver blended programs and hybrid courses across the Penn State Commonwealth.  This committee did not consider the pedagogical aspects associated with blended programs or specific hybrid course development.

2 Executive Summary

Since the initial kickoff meeting on 3/18/08, the Blended Learning/Video Committee has worked collaboratively to: (1) Evaluate the current video technologies used at Penn State, (2) Document the equipment deployed across the campuses and (3) Summarize the key elements that ultimately contribute to a successful blended learning experience.  To become a leading provider of Blended Learning, Penn State should consider the following:

 

(a) Broadcast classroom for CE@UP.  Although Polycom equipment exists in the Outreach building to broadcast instruction from CE@UP, there is not currently a room designated for video based learning.  After considering a number of options, it is recommended that 119 Outreach serve as the broadcast location for CE@UP.  Although it is recognized that 119 Outreach is a currently multi-purpose room, the Committee believes it provides the best accommodation, lighting and student access compared to other rooms within the Outreach building.

 

(b) Equipment for CE@UP.  There are currently two Polycom units (model: VSX 7000) located in the Outreach building (121G and 225).  However, both of the existing Polycom units are mobile units that cannot be reconfigured to accommodate a fixed broadcast environment.  Therefore, a new Polycom unit (VSX 7000 series) will need to be purchased to accommodate 119 Outreach.  In addition, if 119 Outreach is to be designated for CE@UP broadcast, ancillary equipment will need to be purchased.  Penn State’s Telecommunications and Networking Services (TNS) organization typically requires 6-8 weeks to perform a complete site design (audio, video, lighting, etc.).  Given the room size, it is likely that 42 inch flat panel monitors will be required and delivery quality audio transmission will be challenging given that 119 Outreach is currently a multi-purpose room. 

 

(c) Equipment at Campuses.  Abington and Great Valley are the only two campuses that do not have a 7000 series Polycom unit (they have VS512 units).  Those two campuses could be upgraded to 7000 series units to be consistent with other campuses.  Another opportunity is to upgrade monitors from CRT to flat screen monitors (Plasma, LCD, etc.) at many campuses and/or provide document cameras where needed.

 

(d) Faculty Training.  Because functionality varies per technology, there should be a comprehensive training program for all faculty teaching hybrid courses.  Penn State currently utilizes four different technologies, each with unique features and functionality to accommodate distant learning:  (1) Polycom, (2) Adobe Connect, (3) MediaSite Live and (4) Elluminate Live.  It is important for faculty to understand the nuances of each product and determine which product is most suitable for their students.  Another key consideration is to provide faculty with an incentive to develop and teach hybrid courses.  The Committee recommends two approaches to encourage the faculty to build hybrid courses:  (1) Provide training compensation, (2) Provide course development compensation.  Although it is possible that some faculty will naturally embrace the available technology, the prevailing thought of the Committee is that there will need to be some financial incentive to generate interest and adoption from the majority of the faculty.

(e) Support Resources.  Regardless of technology, it is clear that faculty need support to develop and deliver hybrid courses.  Instructional Design & Development resources are needed to build the course and operational support resources are needed to support the faculty during course delivery.  This will allow the faculty to focus on presenting the course content without being distracted or burdened by the technology.

   

3 Our Key Findings

Through our group discussions and technology demonstrations, the committee concluded that technology is only one of the key factors that ultimately contribute to the success of a hybrid course.  To properly leverage technology and create an enriched learning environment, blended learning should also consider the following elements:

 

Audience Awareness 

One of the most important considerations with blended learning is to clearly understand the intended audience and the desired learning experience.  Some technologies are better suited for live, group-to-group, synchronous video (Polycom) while other technologies may be more appealing to individual desktop environments (Adobe Connect, Elluminate Live).  Understanding the desired learning environment for the student will help identify the technologies available to the faculty.  

 

Dedicated room to support synchronous video with proper room design 

To achieve the best results for live, group-to-group, synchronous video, it is recommended to have a dedicated room that has been properly designed to accommodate distant learning.  There are many considerations regarding lighting, audio equipment, display monitors, tables and seating that need to be optimized to create an enriched learning environment for the faculty and the students.  Multi-purpose rooms that are frequently reconfigured create challenges with room set up time and increase the likelihood of equipment breakage and/or malfunction.

 

Faculty development & training 

The transition from face to face instruction to blended learning requires sufficient faculty development and training.  Without proper training, the faculty will be challenged to effectively leverage the technology and deliver the coursework in an integrated manner.  As such, a comprehensive training program should be implemented to insure that the faculty are properly trained and are proficient with a specific technology before a blended learning course is taught.

 

Operational support for faculty 

Another key consideration for blended learning is to provide the faculty with operational support during the instruction.  Each technology offers unique aspects that need to be properly managed during instruction.  For example, Polycom requires operating cameras, establishing an audio bridge and/or slide-ware.  Adobe Connect requires camera operation, audio setup and chat room monitoring to support live Q&A.  Therefore, operational support during the instruction is recommended to allow the faculty to focus on the delivery of content and interaction with the students.

 

Dedicated bandwidth and QOS requirements 

Video content delivery requires sufficient bandwidth to insure a positive user experience for the faculty and the remote student.  All Polycom systems are supported by Penn State’s Telecommunications and Networking Services (TNS) organization.  As such, TNS provides dedicated bandwidth and remotely monitors all Polycom sessions.  In contrast, Adobe Connect does not run on a dedicated network therefore bandwidth availability is variable and could result in faculty competing with local resources/students for bandwidth.  To provide a consistent, high-quality learning environment, it is recommended to have dedicated bandwidth to support video delivery.

 

System monitoring & support 

Given the cost and complexity of the equipment required to support blended learning, it is also recommended to provide local system monitoring and support.  Both faculty and students need to have confidence that the equipment (cameras, audio, monitors, etc.) will function properly.  For shared classrooms that are frequently reconfigured, the likelihood of equipment breakage/malfunctioning is increased. Therefore, local support should be available to diagnose, troubleshoot and resolve equipment-related issues.

 

Proper Instructional Design & Development 

Another key consideration for successful blended learning is to have the proper Instructional Design & Development for the hybrid courses.  Transitioning a course from 100% online or face to face instruction to blended delivery requires effort from faculty and IDD to build the course in a way that leverages technology and presents the material most effectively.  Engaging faculty early with IDD resources is an important aspect of building successful hybrid courses.

 

Classroom availability 

Although it may appear to be rudimentary, classroom availability is currently considered a major constraint for blended learning.  Many of the rooms used for blended learning are also used for face to face instruction.  Proactive logistical planning and visibility into classroom availability will help align technology-equipped classrooms with blended learning instruction.

4 Technology Synopsis

Polycom

a) Product/Technical Capabilities

This product is used for live, group-to-group videoconferencing or teaching (synchronous) with two-way audio and video.   The system is capable of connecting many peripherals into the videoconference to enhance the presentation.  Ex:  document camera, computer, DVD/VHS player, etc.  System capabilities do vary from campus to campus; however, with funding all campus systems could be upgraded to like/matched capabilities.

b) Target Audience

Using Polycom as a two way videoconferencing unit limits your audience to a location where they also have two way videoconferencing capabilities.  Polycom brand does connect to other brands of videoconferencing equipment.

c) Campus Deployments

All Penn State Commonwealth Campuses and Extension Offices are currently equipped with some level of Polycom videoconferencing and most major corporations have video conferencing capability.

d) Technical Support

Penn State TNS offers full service maintenance on all Polycom equipment.  Training is available within Penn State; however, there is a need for instructor assistance/training before course development occurs.  There should be a dedicated person within the producing unit to set up, train and operate this equipment for distance classes.

 

Comment:  Polycom equipment can be used for multiple purposes.  The College of Engineering currently uses this equipment to capture audio/video that is produced for delayed usage in distance classes.  Students can watch the video either as live classes are presented, or on-demand video at a later time.   In some cases, the video is produced separate from a live class and used as an on-demand video file.

There is also new software available that allows anyone with a static IP address and a high-speed connection to hold a PolyCom session (or attend a PolyCom session) right on their personal computer -- using the same Web cam and speaker/mic/headset that they can use for Adobe Connect.

 

There are many ways to reach distance students.  If the goal is to work with Commonwealth Campuses to draw students to their location, then interactive connections of some sort with faculty at University Park are essential and Polycom is the closest you can get to that “ being in the same room with the instructor experience”.  If the goal is to get distance courses to remotely located students at their home or work place then Adobe Connect, MediaSite Live or Elluminate Live will also work.

It is recommended to build courses that can be offered in various ways to allow the use of multiple technologies within a single course. This approach will allow Penn State to leverage its complete set of available technical resources within a given course.

MediaSite Live

a) Product/Technical Capabilities

MediaSite Live is a solution that supports a one-to-many method of distributing content. The technology can be used for lecture capture but is not considered a synchronous, group-to-group video solution. Although there are upfront licensing costs for the server components, there are no end user licenses required to access via the desktop.

In terms of product functionality:

The presenter utilizes the MediaSite Recorder to synchronize the audio with visual aids and instantly streams them both over the internet.  The benefits include:

( Reach out to everyone at once

( Improve communication across department, campus or geographic boundaries

( Personally convey the significance of your message

( Reduce travel, work interruption and downtime

Others view the presentation through the MediaSite Viewer using any standard web browser. They can watch at their convenience, either live or on-demand. And you can interact with them through polls and Q&A.  The benefits include:

( Boost collaboration and team morale

( Eliminate distractions to enhance retention

( Reduce costs with less travel

( Get competitive with just-in-time information to complete projects more quickly

The MediaSite server software provides the ability to manage a growing library of presentations.  The benefits include:

( Secure confidential presentations for viewing by only authorized users

( Organize and categorize webcasts in online catalogs to bring order to your presentation

archive

( Index and search your saved presentations to easily find important information

( Customize presentation content to make it accessible for all users (Section 508) and brand

the viewing experience with your logo, colors and message

( Report on viewing activity to see who is watching what, when and for how long

( Scale reliably to meet growing demand, confidently supporting hundreds to thousands of

simultaneous presentations and maximizing your enterprise infrastructure

b) Target Audience

Desktop/laptop users - home/office

c) Campus Deployments

Media & Technology Support Services has 6 MediaSite Live units – one is portable and five are installed in classrooms at University Park: 108 Wartik, 371 Willard, 112 Kern, Thomas 100 & Foster Auditorium in the Pattee Library. Technically, MediaSite Live can be installed in any of the 234 General Purpose Technology Classrooms at University Park campus. A small video camera mounted on a tripod is used to capture the image of the presenter. Connections for audio and VGA feeds can be made in the podium. One constraint is the short period between classes – it takes approximately 25 – 30 minutes to set-up the camera and MediaSite Live unit. Another constraint is the capturing process of the computer images uses jpegs, so video or animation embedded in a Powerpoint presentation cannot be sent. 

 

EMS has a MediaSite Live unit  installed in 112 Walker, IST has one in the Cybertorium (113 IST) & Hershey Medical Center has eight units installed in their facilities. 

d) Technical Support

Technical support is provided by Penn State Media & Technology Support Services and Sonic Foundry (vendor).

Adobe Connect

a) Product/Technical Capabilities

Adobe Connect is a Web-based desktop video conferencing system that works on individual users' personal computers.  This Flash-based tool is cross-platform, supporting Windows, Macintosh, and Linux. Although no local client is required, there is a "Sharing Add-in" that must be installed for sharing applications and files through the Share pod.

Features of the system include the ability for all meeting participants to broadcast and receive both audio and video.  Also included is the ability to display JPEG images, PowerPoint presentations, MP3 audio files, and Flash files, including FlashPaper, animations and videos.  Live chat, polls, and emoticons supplement the live audio and video broadcast for communication and interaction.  Note pods allow Presenters to display notes and text as well as allowing Attendees to interactively enter and edit text.  The collaborative whiteboard can be used to display drawings as well as to provide a means for participants to interact.

b) Target Audience

Because of its ability to connect participants via the Internet, Adobe Connect allows for delivery of courses anywhere in the world at anytime. Essentially, this tool can reach any desktop computer or conference room computer/projection system anywhere around the globe that has an internet connection. Because of the bandwidth required to receive audio, video, and graphic content, hardwired, high speed internet access is recommended as opposed to using wireless or dial-up connection services. Users need to be very comfortable with technology and need to know up front that they may be required to purchase a headset and Web cam.

While the reach of the audience is limitless, C&DE's goal is to impact Pennsylvania, serve the nation, reach the world. With that being said, the committee recommends that large scale use of Adobe Connect be focused primarily within Pennsylvania first. Once scalable models are developed and implemented, further expansion of a "borderless classroom" can be explored.

c) Campus Deployments

Adobe Connect replaced Breeze when Macromedia and Adobe merged and has been in use at Penn State in a pilot phase during the past two years. Currently over 32,000 Adobe Connect meetings are held each month throughout the Penn State community. Adobe Connect is used by all campuses to deliver course lectures and materials; for faculty, staff, and students to hold meetings and share visuals; and as a social networking tool. Adobe Connect is available to all faculty, staff, and students free of charge. ITS continuously offers user support and training.

d) Technical Support

Technical support for Adobe Connect is provided through a collaborative partnership between Teaching and Learning with Technology (TLT) and Consulting and Support Services (CSS), two units of Penn State's ITS system.  General support is available to users through the ITS Help Desk during normal business hours.  In addition to the Help Desk, users may submit questions to breeze@psu.edu or to the forums at the Penn State Adobe Connect Online Community at .  The Online Community site also contains resources, documentation, and tutorials specific to the Penn State community.

Elluminate Live

a) Product/Technical Capabilities

Elluminate Live runs effectively on both Mac and PC platforms and on multiple operating systems including Windows 2000, XP, Vista, and Mac OS 10.2 or higher. Elluminate Live can be used on minimal bandwidth (56 kb), but DSL or higher is recommended if presenters are using any media or video in the session. The system supports full duplex audio, and video can be delivered as B&W, low resolution color, or high resolution color. The quality of video is determined by the moderator and by the participants independently. Based on the users system Elluminate Live automatically adjusts to meet the bandwidth available and monitors each participants connection, advising the moderator (through graphic representation) if a participant is lagging in receiving media or the presentation. As this is a hosted solution the university is not responsible for any servers nor for maintaining the system. Upgrades to the server software is automatic and the World Campus has the ability to determine when they want to migrate to a particular upgrade or revision. For a full description of technical capabilities please see

b) Target Audience

The current audience for Elluminate Live usage is World Campus instructors and students. Heaviest usage is by students working on group projects. The product can also be used for large audience/class presentations, but this is not the strength of the product as its real strength is in facilitating collaborative work teams, small group presentations, and one-on-one office hours for students at a distance.

c) Campus Deployments

Elluminate Live is used by faculty and students participating in World Campus courses. There is no fee to the students or to the academic program for use.

d) Technical Support

Technical support of the product is provided by Elluminate Live to the World Campus administrators of the product. The Outreach HelpDesk provides training on Elluminate Live for World Campus faculty and provides assistance for students. All software updates occur automatically when initiated by the vendor and the World Campus has the ability to determine when they want to change over to the latest version.

5 Opportunities to Enrich the Adult Learner Environment

a) Broadcast Capabilities for CE@UP

The current existing video teleconferencing (VTC) hardware for Continuing Education at University Park (CE@UP) is an ad hoc, mobile, wireless VSX-7000 in 121G Outreach Building (OB). Also a second mobile video teleconferencing cart is available for meetings and training sessions in 119 and 121H OB. Currently the wireless system only works on the first floor of the Outreach building and covers rooms 119 and 121G&H OB and does provide Quality of Service (QOS) at wireless connection speeds.

Audio Conference Calls () are available in all rooms and are scheduled through the Penn State Call Center Audio Reservations Scheduler (814-863-3410, fax 814-865-1100). Special arrangements are necessary for calls outside of the Call Center’s operating hours ().

b) Room Configuration & Supporting Equipment

Video teleconferencing sites (VTC) can be configured as either static or mobile platforms. The advantage with stationary systems is that they are designed by systems integration specialists to provide optimal audio and video broadcast quality; flexible illumination design that considers natural as well as artificial lighting; and utilizing mounting surfaces for optimal viewing of the monitors. In addition, these systems are more reliable and durable as they are designed to be more isolated from human interaction. They are also inherently upgradable to incorporate additional broadcasting options in the future through additional hardware. Stationary systems are generally more expensive to install however.  

 

Mobile platforms are more flexible to deploy if dedicated rooms for VTC are unavailable. These systems are generally less expensive to install compared to stationary platforms. Unfortunately, mobile systems are much more fragile, take longer to setup before classes and are often restricted from optimal broadcasting quality due to awkward seating arrangements and microphone placement, smaller viewing monitors, and ineffectual room lighting.  

In addition to a VTC unit (i.e. VSX-7000, ), supporting equipment is available to expand the capabilities of the broadcasting system. A document camera is an excellent choice for displaying printed or handwritten materials and small objects. A combination of multimedia projectors, TV’s and flat screen monitors are necessary for viewing remote sites and may be also used to view local or data information depending upon the capabilities of the VTC system. Permanent desktop computers or hook ups for laptop computers may also be added for use with People+Content (a Polycom developed proprietary standard to send two video channels within a single H.323 or H.320 call) or H.239 enabled VTC systems. Stationary VTC systems may also be upgraded with broadcasting bridges to provide mixing capabilities and outputs to the Internet and other video resources (i.e. WPSU). Phone bridges may also be combined with VTC systems to accommodate remote sites without VTC capabilities.

c) Classroom Availability

Assuming that the Outreach Building at University Park is the primary location of interest for the installation of a new or upgraded video teleconferencing (VTC) site, there were a number of rooms that were discussed as possible candidates: 119, 120, 121G&H, 223A, 241, and 324. The choice for installation must consider: the physical size of the room, the floor plan mechanics (windows, doors, columns, etc.), ADA access, off-hour (outside of the M-F, 8-6pm time window) access to the room, ownership, and scheduling procedures. Some rooms, like 121G&H, are a better choice when considering room size, though may not be ideal when considering room mechanics. 223A might also be a good choice when considering room size, although access issues make it a less-than-ideal choice for a VTC classroom. 119 features the best room mechanics, public access off-hours, and good availability, although the size of the room demands careful consideration to the design of a VTC system.

d) Instructor Training

There are at least three different sources of pedagogical best practices for instructors unfamiliar with blended learning and/or video conferencing environments: their academic unit’s Instructional Designers (ID) or Instructional Technologists; the video teleconferencing (VTC) site’s technical contact; and the Educational Technology Services (ETS) white paper, “Faculty Guide to Teaching through Videoconferencing” (see Appendix F). When preparing the course, one possible starting place for instructors is to identify the typical user experience and compare that with the syllabus and course materials. This process will help to identify potential challenges to the student-centered learning outcomes of the course. Other blended learning-specific, pedagogical approaches are available from the sources listed above.

The three areas of technical training for instructors are: the room setup, connectivity issues, and available resources. Instructors are strongly suggested to show up at least 15 minutes in advance so that they may determine the proper functioning of the monitors, camera, audio equipment, remote control and any peripheral devices such as a document camera, SMART Board™, computer, and so on. Instructors are also encouraged to check the camera preset zoom settings to determine if they are appropriate for the upcoming session. The last part of the setup should include a review or drafting of guidelines for effective communication when broadcasting between more than two sites. These ground rules can be shared with the sites at the beginning of the session during roll call.

When the time comes to connect, there are some considerations that would need to have been determined before hand. The instructor (or staff support) would have needed to determine whether or not a video bridge would be necessary as they are employed in two situations: negotiation between Internet Protocol (IP, H.323) and Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN, H.320) systems; or when more than two sites are to connect simultaneously. It is important to specify that there are telecom costs associated with ISDN connections whereas IP calls do not incur a charge. Calls between two IP sites may connect ad hoc via IP addresses or E.164 (five digit) aliases.

 

Any technical support issues for Polycom sessions can be handled through the Telecommunication and Networking Services: Network Operations Center (TNS NOC, 814-865-4462). Video bridges () can be scheduled for a single session through the Penn State Call Center (814-863-8906) or through an On-Demand service for re-occurring sessions through Informational Technology Services (ITS). Technical support calls during video bridge sessions can be made through TNS NOC (814-865-1036). Support calls with or without a video bridge will be handled through cell phone support through TNS NOC.

For Adobe Connect, there are six different categories of users: participants, presenters, meeting hosts, meeting room creators, moderators, and technical support staff. Each of these different roles requires a different level of expertise. Generally speaking, for classroom use, the instructor will be a meeting room host and the students will be participants and presenters. The technical aspects of making an Adobe Connect meeting room work and the operational aspects of knowing how to use the tools within a meeting room to run a successful meeting are two different things. Training needs to be provided for both instructors and students, even when a technical moderator is present to make sure the meeting room is functioning correctly.

Currently Penn State ITS Training Services offers only one face-to-face overview seminar on Adobe Connect. This seminar is usually presented once a month. Additional training beyond the overview must be user initiated. Materials available for user self-education, including both text documents and narrated, animated Flash videos, are available at the Penn State Adobe Connect Online Community (). Third party instruction is also available from companies such as Fig Leaf, but this instruction is not specific to the Penn State installation of Adobe Connect and tends to be rather expensive at $1500.00 per participant.

Since training is critical to the successful implementation of Adobe Connect, and current resources are minimal, development of additional instructional materials is recommended. A plan for maintaining the materials once they are created is also required as Adobe regularly changes and upgrades their product. Partnering with the College of Ag Sciences might be possible as they are heavy users of Adobe Connect and have similar training needs.

General user support for Adobe Connect is managed through the CSS unit of ITS which includes both the Penn State ITS Help Desk and the Penn State ITS Consultants. Hours of operation are limited to regular Penn State business hours. Users can submit questions to the Help Desk either through phone calls or by sending email to breeze@psu.edu. However, as response to questions and problems can take as long as 24 hours, these centrally funded support resources need to be supplemented by local support. There is currently no centrally funded training program for technical support staff.

A second option users have for obtaining support is to submit questions to the forums at the Penn State Adobe Connect Online Community (). Response time to questions submitted to the community varies depending on who is online at the time the question is submitted.

With respect to Elluminate Live, there is a technician present for every session therefore training support is not required.

e) Operational Support

Operational support would address marketing, materials and moderation of the blended learning courses. The programs and courses need proper marketing to identify the most suitable target markets, assess potential enrollments, provide adequate advertisement, and develop effective online resources for the students. Operational support would also oversee the methods of distribution of handouts, DVD’s, and other materials necessary for the courses. Instructional designers should also be available as resources in the development of strategies, goals, and course materials. Finally, operational support personnel could provide additional in-class support with remote site management, camera control, and switching between and/or control of peripheral equipment (document cameras, PC’s, etc.).

6 Additional Methods for Video Distribution

a) iTunes U

Penn State University is well represented on iTunes U in a number of contexts. These include pod casts that serve as student/faculty resources and outreach marketing initiatives. A sample of the current Penn State iTunes U resources include:

 

▪ “Public courses” IST 110, IST 402

▪ The Smeal College of Business Faculty Lectures, Wall Street Bootcamp

▪ Management Development Programs and Service’s Faculty Biographies

▪ Schreyer Honors College – Welcome from the Dean

▪ College of Engineering – Sustainability, Biotechnology Pod casts

▪ Research Unplugged – pod casts highlighting current research at Penn State

   

Some important statistics and demographics related to podcasting and iTunes to support and expand this modality include:

 

➢ iTunes, the “parent site” to iTunes U, is the number 1 music retailer (surpassing Wal-Mart in April 2008) with 50 million customers. Since 2001 over 4 billion songs downloaded have been downloaded.

➢ The 13-24 year old demographic is more deeply immersed in “Itechnologies” than before as these innovations become increasingly vital to the education process. (Taylor, 2008)

➢ iTunes U provides an unprecedented level of flexibility, giving students 24/7 access to lectures and the ability to learn at their own pace. (Taylor, 2008)

➢ The “Research Channel” is a University consortium dedicated to disseminate knowledge from schools and other sources to a global business audience – their market is the affluent and mobile 35-54 year old market.

➢ “Podagogy” (Rosell – Aquilar, 2007) is the study of audio and video language learning resources, specifically for portable media players like the iPod.

 

Recommendations:  

1. Identify additional forms of “podagogy” within Penn State University.

 

2. Review statistics (if available) on PSU podcasts (who is downloading, how are they finding them, how are they using them, etc.)

 

3. Explore podcasting ability/use with ANGEL.

4. Conduct focus group(s) among younger demographic market to identify emerging Itechnologies.

(b) Penn State Video Streaming Server

In addition to iTunes U, which downloads files directly to the user's computer, Penn State offers a centrally supported streaming video server.  Rather than downloading files, the streaming server simply plays the files directly from the server, allowing instructors to include audio/visual copyrighted materials under the TEACH ACT in their instruction without violating copyright laws.  Permissions can be set on a file-by-file basis to restrict access to video files.  The streaming server is available to all faculty and staff to use for instructional purposes free of charge.  As with iTunes U, a high speed Internet connection is required.

( DVD

Another option for delivering courses, or parts of courses, is via lectures recorded on DVD.  These lectures can be professionally produced using the Penn State Public Broadcasting studios, and can then be supplemented with print materials, online enhancements via ANGEL, and/or live instruction via local instructors at the campuses.  This option allows for campus locations to take advantage of the expertise of faculty located at University Park.  Granted, this is not as high-tech an option as the other technologies that we have reviewed, but this lower tech option has its benefits.  Students need a TV and a DVD player or DVD enabled computer in order to watch the videos.  There are no additional technical requirements needed, unless the course also includes ANGEL enhancements.  Disadvantages of DVD-based learning include the lack of interaction between students and faculty and among students and the large price tag that comes along with in-studio video production and management/distribution costs. 

7 Appendix A: Committee Roster

(Alphabetically)

Becky Beatty Interim Director, CE@UP

Bill Bishop Director of Audio Visual Services, Media and Technology Support

Yvonne Clark Instructional Designer, ITS

Paul DeGategno Director of Academic Affairs, Penn State Brandywine

Leslie Demmert Education Program Specialist, CE@UP

Annette Fetterolf Program Manager, Statewide Continuing Education

Erin Garthe Program Planner, Health and Education Programs

Randy Ingbritsen Area Representative, Penn State Abington

Theodora Jankowski Professor, Penn State Wilkes-Barre

Dave Langton Support Center Coordinator, Outreach Technology Services

Kent Matsueda Instructional Designer, Continuing and Distance Education

David Norloff Assistant Director, Strategic Opportunity Development, Continuing and Distance Education (committee chair)

John Park Assistant Professor, Management Development

Diana Ricotta Assistant Director of Continuing Education, Penn State Dubois

Rick Shearer Assistant Director of Instructional Design and Development

Wayne Smutz Associate Vice President for Academic Outreach and Executive Director of Continuing and Distance Education (committee sponsor)

Deb Zimmerman Program Manger, Engineering, Continuing Education

8 Appendix B: Penn State Video Conference Systems per Campus

|Campus |Building |Room 7 |Codec Type |

|Dickinson School Of Law |Advantica Building |143 |Sony IPELA PCS-TL50 |

|Dickinson School Of Law |Advantica Building |102 |Sony IPELA PCS-TL50 |

|Dickinson School Of Law |Advantica Building |Sony 30-1 |Sony IPELA PCS-TL30 |

|Dickinson School Of Law |Advantica Building |236 |Sony IPELA PCS-TL50 |

|Dickinson School Of Law |Advantica Building |254 |Sony PCS1/SCCP |

|Dickinson School Of Law |Advantica Building |148 |Sony PCS1/SCCP |

|Dickinson School Of Law |Advantica Building |119 |Sony IPELA PCS-TL50 |

|Dickinson School Of Law |Advantica Building |250 |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|Dickinson School Of Law |Advantica Building |142 |Sony PCS-G50 |

|Dickinson School Of Law |Advantica Building |114 |Sony PCS1/SCCP |

|Hershey Medical Center |Hospital |CG 623 |Polycom VS-EX |

|Hershey Medical Center |Hospital |CG 624E |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|Hershey Medical Center |Hospital |CG 628 |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|Hershey Medical Center |Hospital |C4702 |Polycom HDX 9002 |

|Hershey Medical Center |Hospital |Lecture RM D |Polycom VS4000 |

|Hershey Medical Center |Hospital |CG620 |POLYCOM VSX 3000 |

|Hershey Medical Center |Hospital |H7142 |Polycom VSX 7000 |

|Hershey Medical Center |Hospital |CG624F |Polycom VS-EX |

|Hershey Medical Center |Hospital |C6831 |TANDBERG 7000 |

|Hershey Medical Center |Hospital |C5620 |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|Hershey Medical Center |Academic Addition II (Biomedical |6832 |Tandberg |

| |Research Building) | | |

|Hershey Medical Center |East Addition |HCAR 1103 |Polycom HDX9002 |

|Hershey Medical Center |Hershey Out-Patient Psych |9 |Polycom VSX7000 |

|Hershey Medical Center |Academic Support Building |ASB 3401 |Tandberg |

|Hershey Medical Center |Academic Support Building |Facilities Conf |Tandburg |

|Hershey Medical Center |Academic Support Building |2102 |Polycom VS512 |

|Penn S Worthington-Scranton |Dawson Building |D10 |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|Penn S Worthington-Scranton |Dawson Building |105 |Polycom ViaVideo II |

|Penn S Worthington-Scranton |Dawson Building |D7 |Polycom PVX version 6.0 |

|Penn S Worthington-Scranton |Classroom-Library Building |1st floor Conf |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|Penn S Worthington-Scranton |Student Study-Learning Center |29 |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|Penn State Abington |Sutherland Building (Miss Abby A.) |320b |PolyCom ViaVoice II |

|Penn State Abington |Woodland Building |116 |Polycom VS512 |

|Penn State Altoona |Eiche Library |128 |Polycom VSX-7000s |

|Penn State Altoona |Sheetz Family Health Center |102D |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|Penn State Beaver |General Classroom Building |0.25 |Polycom VS-EX |

|Penn State Beaver |Study-Learning Center |16 |Polycom VSX-7000s |

|Penn State Berks |Franco Building |157 |Polycom VS4000 |

|Penn State Berks |Thun Library |109 |Polycom VSX-7000e |

|Penn State Berks |Thun Library |145 |Polycom VSX-7000e |

|Penn State Brandywine |Main Building |212K |PVX |

|Penn State Brandywine |Vairo Library |201E |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|Penn State Brandywine |Vairo Library |128 |Polycom Via Video |

|Penn State DuBois |Smeal Building |46 |Polycom VSX 7000 |

|Penn State Dubois |DEF |202 |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|Penn State Erie |Reed Building |3 |Polycom VS323 |

|Penn State Erie |South Cottage |100 |Polycom Via-Video |

|Penn State Erie |Research And Economic Develpoment |236 |Polycom VSX-7000e |

| |Center | | |

|Penn State Erie |The Irvin Kochel Center |69 |Polycom VS-FX |

|Penn State Erie |Knowledge Park |Ben Franklin |Polycom VS323 |

|Penn State Fayette |Eberly Classroom Building |107 |Polycom PVX |

|Penn State Fayette |Eberly Classroom Building |204 |Polycom VSX-7000s |

|Penn State Fayette |Eberly Classroom Building |RM 116 |Polycom VSX-8000 |

|Penn State Fayette |Eberly Classroom Building |101C |Polycom PVX |

|Penn State Fayette |Biomedical Technology Center |218 |Polycom VSX-7000e |

|Penn State Great Valley |Great Valley Grad Cntr |102 |Polycom VS512 |

|Penn State Great Valley |Great Valley Grad Cntr |228 Main |Picturetel Concord 4500ZX |

|Penn State Great Valley |Safeguard Scientifics Building |Musser Auditori |Picturetel Concord 4500ZX |

|Penn State Greater Allegheny |Frable Building |119 |Polycom VS-FX |

|Penn State Greater Allegheny |Frable Building |120 |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|Penn State Harrisburg |Olmsted Building |W117C (CDC) |Polycom VS323 |

|Penn State Harrisburg |Olmsted Building |E306 |Polycom VS-FX |

|Penn State Harrisburg |Olmsted Building |E308 |Polycom VS-FX |

|Penn State Harrisburg |Susquehanna Building |113 |Polycom VSX-7000s |

|Penn State Hazleton |Library |12 |Polycom VS-FX |

|Penn State Hazleton |Butler Teaching and Learning Resource|203J |Polycom VSX-7000 |

| |Center | | |

|Penn State Lehigh Valley |Academic Building |120 |Polycom VS4000 |

|Penn State Lehigh Valley |Academic Building |112B |Polycom VSX-7000s |

|Penn State Lehigh Valley |Lehigh Valley Corporate Center |120L |Polycom VS323 |

|Penn State Mont Alto |General Studies Bl |124F |Polycom PVX |

|Penn State Mont Alto |General Studies Bl |308 |Polycom VSX-7000e |

|Penn State Mont Alto |Conklin Hall |202 |Polycom PVX |

|Penn State Mont Alto |Conklin Hall |212A |Polycom PVX |

|Penn State Mont Alto |Conklin Hall |205 |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|Penn State Mont Alto |Conklin Hall |211 |Polycom PVX |

|Penn State Mont Alto |Conklin Hall |201 |Polycom PVX |

|Penn State New Kensington |Blissell Library (Elizabeth S.) |44 |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|Penn State Schuylkill |Ciletti Memorial Library |107 |Picturetel S4000ZX |

|Penn State Schuylkill |Classroom Building |C110 |Polycom VS323 |

|Penn State Schuylkill |Administration Building | |Polycom PVX |

|Penn State Shenango |Sharon Hall |307 |Polycom PVX |

|Penn State Shenango |Mcdowell Mem. Hall |110 |Polycom VS512 |

|Penn State Shenango |Library |103 |Polycom VS4000 |

|Penn State Wilkes-Barre |Commons Building |208 |Polycom VSX-7000s |

|Penn State Wilkes-Barre |Science Building |2 |Polycom VS-EX |

|Penn State York |0964-000 |CEO Office |Polycom PVX |

|Penn State York |Main Building |DAA Conf. Rm |Polycom PVX |

|Penn State York |Main Building |31B(Default Rm) |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|Penn State York |Main Building |MCB 24 |Polycom PVX |

|Penn State York |Main Building |FPM1 Via Video |Polycom PVX |

|Penn State York |Main Building |SCS15 Via Video |Polycom PVX |

|University Park |Old Main |404 |Polycom VSX-7000s |

|University Park |Old Main |111N |Polycom VS-FX |

|University Park |Shields |2 |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|University Park |Computer Building |141 |Polycom VSX-8000 |

|University Park |Willard |23 |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|University Park |Willard |371 |Polycom VSX-8000 |

|University Park |Transportation Research Building |127 |VSX8000 |

|University Park |Ford Building |208 |Sony |

|University Park |Business Building |210G |Polycom 8000 |

|University Park |James M. Elliott Building |519 |Polycom VSX-7000s |

|University Park |Life Science Building |401 |Polycom VS-FX |

|University Park |Life Science Building |100 |Polycom VS4000 |

|University Park |Information Sciences And Technology |110 |Polycom VS4000 |

| |(Ist) Building | | |

|University Park |Information Sciences And Technology |101 |Polycom VSX-7000s |

| |(Ist) Building | | |

|University Park |Bank Of America Career Service |239 |Polycom VS323 |

| |Building | | |

|University Park |Bank Of America Career Service |241 |Polycom VS512 |

| |Building | | |

|University Park |Armsby |7B |PolyCom ViaVideo II |

|University Park |Land And Water Research Building |113 |Polycom VS512 |

|University Park |Buckhout Laboratory (William A.) |212 |vsx7000 |

|University Park |Agricultural Administration Building |403 |Polycom PVX |

|University Park |Agricultural Administration Building |122 |vsx7000 |

|University Park |Agricultural Administration Building |106 |Polycom PVX |

|University Park |Agricultural Administration Building |106E |VSX 7400S |

|University Park |Agricultural Administration Building |407 |Polycom Viavideo |

|University Park |Agricultural Administration Building |403 |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|University Park |Agricultural Administration Building |401E |Polycom 512MP |

|University Park |Agricultural Science & Industries |110 |Polycom VS4000 |

| |Building | | |

|University Park |Agricultural Science & Industries |118 |Polycom VS512 |

| |Building | | |

|University Park |University Support Building 2 |Conf. room 120 |Polycom VSX-8000 |

|University Park |University Support Building 2 |119a |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|University Park |Beam Business Admin |218 |Sony |

|University Park |Beam Business Admin |333 |PCS1/SCCP |

|University Park |Beam Business Admin |327 |Sony PCS1/SCCP |

|University Park |Beam Business Admin |330 |Sony PCS1/sccp |

|University Park |Beam Business Admin |410 |Polycom VS323 |

|University Park |Beam Business Admin |319 |Sony G50 |

|University Park |Housing & Food Service Building |208 |Polycom VSX-7000e |

|University Park |Sackett Building |327 |Polycom VSX-8000 |

|University Park |Hammond Building |218 |Polycom HDX-9002 |

|University Park |Hammond Building |308 |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|University Park |Hammond Building |307 |Polycom VSX-8000 |

|University Park |Engineering Unit C |305 |Polycom VSX-8000 |

|University Park |Hallowell Building |210 |Polycom VS-FX |

|University Park |Special Services Building |222 |Polycom VSX 7000S |

|University Park |Special Services Building |203 |Polycom VSX 7400s |

|University Park |Wartik Laboratory |108 |Polycom VS4000 |

|University Park |Wartik Laboratory |519 |Polycom VS-FX |

|University Park |Kern Graduate Building |102 |Polycom VS323 |

|University Park |Steidle Building |202 |Polycom VS323 |

|University Park |Deike Building |Various |Polycom VS323 |

|University Park |Burrowes Building |409 |Polycom VSX-8000 |

|University Park |Burrowes Building |207 |Polycom VSX-8000 |

|University Park |Chambers Building |236 |Polycom VS-FX |

|University Park |Rackley Building |203 |Polycom VS323 |

|University Park |Rackley Building |403 |Polycom VSX-7000s |

|University Park |Park Avenue Bldg |110 |Polycom VS323 |

|University Park |Health & Human Development East |102 |Polycom VS-EX |

|University Park |Health & Human Development East |101 |Polycom VSX-7000e |

|University Park |Sparks Building |Room 7 |Polycom VSX-7000e |

|University Park |Noll Laboratory For Human Performance|127 |Polycom ViewStation FX |

| |Research (A. Robert) | | |

|University Park |Penn State Conference Center Hotel |McKinnon |Polycom VS 4000 |

|University Park |Penn State Conference Center Hotel |Varies |Polycom VS4000 |

|University Park |Materials Research Institute Building|186 |Polycom VS-FX |

|University Park |Technology Center |101B |Polycom VS323 |

|University Park |Technology Center |115H |Polycom VSX-7000A |

|University Park |Outreach Innovation Building |121G |Polycom VSX 7000 |

|University Park |Outreach Innovation Building |241 |VSX 7000 |

|University Park |Arl Building (Addition Only) |Varies |PolyCom ViewStation EX |

|University Park |Calder Square II |Suite 400 |Polycom VS-FX |

|University Park |Rider Building |315 |Polycom VS-FX |

|University Park |Rider Building |509 |Polycom SP 128 |

|University Park |Rider Building |210 |Polycom Viewstation SP128 |

|University Park |Rider Building |508 |Polycom VSX-8000 |

| | | | |

|Desktop system | | | |

|Not People+Content or H.239 Capable | | | |

9 Appendix C: Penn State Video Conference Systems per Technology

|Sony IPELA PCS-TL50 |Sony IPELA PCS-TL30 |Sony PCS1/SCCP |Sony IPELA PCS-TL50 |Sony PCS-G50 |

|Dickinson (Rm 143) |Dickinson (Rm Sony 30-1) |Dickinson (Rm 254) |Dickinson (Rm 236) |Dickinson (Rm 142) |

|Dickinson (Rm 102) | |Dickinson (Rm 148) | |UP (Beam Business Admin - 319)|

|Dickinson (Rm 236) | |Dickinson (Rm 114) | | |

|Dickinson (Rm 119) | |UP (Beam Business Admin - 333)| | |

| | |UP (Beam Business Admin - 327)| | |

| | |UP (Beam Business Admin - 330)| | |

|Polycom VS323 |POLYCOM VSX 3000 |Polycom VS4000 |Picturetel S4000ZX |Polycom VSX-7000 |

|Erie (Knowledge Park - Ben |Hershey (Hospital - CG620) |Hershey (Hospital - Lecture RM|Schuylkill (Ciletti - 107) |Dickinson (Rm 250) |

|Franklin) | |D) | | |

| | |Berks (Franco - 157) | |Hershey (Hospital - CG 624E) |

| | |Lehigh Valley (Academic - 120)| |Hershey (Hospital - CG 628) |

| | |Shenango (Library - 103) | |Hershey (Hospital - H7142) |

| | |UP (Life Science - 100) | |Hershey (Hospital - C5620) |

| | |UP (IST - 110) | |Hershey (Out-Patient Psych - 9) |

| | |UP (Ag Science - 110) | |Altoona (Sheetz Fm Hlth Ctr - 102D) |

| | |UP (Wartik - 108) | |Brandywine (Vairo Library - 201E) |

| | |UP (PS Conference Center Hotel| |DuBois (Smeal Building - 46) |

| | |- McKinnon) | | |

| | |UP (PS Conference Center Hotel| |DuBois (DEF - 202) |

| | |- Varies) | | |

| | | | |Greater Allegheny (Frable - 120) |

| | | | |Hazleton (Butler Teaching & Learning - |

| | | | |203J) |

| | | | |Mont Alto (Conklin Hall - 205) |

| | | | |New Kensington (Blissell Library - 44) |

| | | | |UP (Shields - 2) |

| | | | |UP (Willard - 23) |

| | | | |UP (Buckhout Lab - 212) |

| | | | |UP (Ag Admin - 122) |

| | | | |UP (Ag Admin - 403) |

| | | | |UP (University Support 2 - Conf 119a) |

| | | | |UP (Hammond - 308) |

| | | | |UP (Outreach - 121G) |

| | | | |UP (Outreach - 241) |

| | | | |Worthington-Scranton (Dawson - D10) |

| | | | |Worthington-Scranton (Classrm Lib - 1st |

| | | | |Flr) |

| | | | |Worthington-Scranton (Student Study - |

| | | | |29) |

| | | | |York (Main Building - 31B) |

|Polycom VSX-7000a |Polycom VSX-7000e |Polycom VSX-7000s |Polycom VSX 7400s |Polycom VSX-8000 |

|UP (Technology Center - 101B) |Berks (Thun Library - 109) |Altoona (Eiche Library - 128) |UP (Ag Admin - 106E) |Fayette (Eberly - 116) |

| |Berks (Thun Library - 145) |Beaver (Study Learning Ctr - |UP (Special Services - 203) |UP (Computer Building - 141) |

| | |16) | | |

| |Erie (Research & Econ Dev Ctr |Fayette (Eberly - 204) | |UP (Willard - 371) |

| |- 236) | | | |

| |Fayette (Biomed - 218) |Harrisburg (Susquehanna - 113)| |UP (Transportation Research - |

| | | | |127) |

| |Mont Alto (General Studies - |Lehigh Valley (Academic - | |UP (Business Building - 210G) |

| |308) |112B) | | |

| |UP (Housing & Food Service - |UP (Old Main - 404) | |UP (University Support 2 - |

| |208) | | |Conf 120) |

| |UP (Health & Human Dev East - |UP (James M. Elliott - 519) | |UP (Sackett - 327) |

| |101) | | | |

| |UP (Sparks - 7) |UP (IST - 101) | |UP (Hammond - 307) |

| | |UP (Special Services - 222) | |UP (Engineering Unit C - 305) |

| | |UP (Rackley - 403) | |UP (Burrowes - 409) |

| | |Wilkes-Barre (Commons - 208) | |UP (Burrowes - 207) |

| | | | |UP (Rider Building - 508) |

|Polycom HDX 9002 |Polycom VS-EX |Polycom VS-FX |Polycom ViewStation FX |PolyCom ViewStation EX |

|Hershey (Hospital - C4702) |Hershey (Hospital - CG 623) |Erie (Irvin Kochel Center - |UP (Noll Laboratory - 127) |UP (Arl Building, addition |

| | |69) | |only - Varies) |

|Hershey (East Add - HCAR 1103)|Hershey (Hospital - CG 624F) |Greater Allegheny (Frable - | | |

| | |119) | | |

|UP (Hammond - 218) |Beaver (General Classroom - |Harrisburg (Olmsted - E306) | | |

| |0.25) | | | |

| |UP (Health & Human Dev East - |Harrisburg (Olmsted - E308) | | |

| |102) | | | |

| |Wilkes-Barre (Science - 2) |Hazleton (Library - 12) | | |

| | |UP (Old Main - 111N) | | |

| | |UP (Life Science - 401) | | |

| | |UP (Hallowell - 210) | | |

| | |UP (Wartik - 519) | | |

| | |UP (Chambers - 236) | | |

| | |UP (Materials Research | | |

| | |Institute - 186) | | |

| | |UP (Calder Square II - Suite | | |

| | |400) | | |

| | |UP (Rider Building - 315) | | |

|TANDBERG 7000 |Tandberg |

|Hershey (Hospital - C6831) |Hershey (Biomed - 6832) |

| |Hershey (Academic Support - ASB 3401) |

| |Hershey (Academic Support - Facilities Conf) |

Desktop Systems

|Polycom PVX |Polycom PVX v. 6.0 |Polycom Via Video |Polycom ViaVideo II |PolyCom ViaVoice II |

|Brandywine (Main Building - |Worthington-Scranton (Dawson -|Brandywine (Vairo Library - |UP (Armsby - 7B) |Abington (Sutherland - 320b) |

|212K) |D7) |128) | | |

|Fayette (Eberly - 107) | |Erie (South Cottage - 100) |Worthington-Scranton (Dawson -| |

| | | |105) | |

|Fayette (Eberly - 101C) | |UP (Ag Admin - 407) | | |

|Mont Alto (General Studies - | | | | |

|124F) | | | | |

|Mont Alto (Conklin Hall - 202)| | | | |

|Mont Alto (Conklin Hall - | | | | |

|212A) | | | | |

|Mont Alto (Conklin Hall - 211)| | | | |

|Mont Alto (Conklin Hall - 201)| | | | |

|Schuylkill (Admin Building) | | | | |

|Shenango (Sharon Hall - 307) | | | | |

|UP (Ag Admin - 403) | | | | |

|UP (Ag Admin - 106) | | | | |

|York (0964-000 - CEO Office) | | | | |

|York (Main Building - DAA | | | | |

|Conf. Rm) | | | | |

|York (Main Building - MCB 24) | | | | |

|York (Main Building - FPM1 Via| | | | |

|Video) | | | | |

|York (Main Building - SCS15 | | | | |

|Via Video) | | | | |

10 Appendix D: Campus (Non-UP) H.323 Videoconference Systems

|Polycom VS323 |Polycom VS512 |Picturetel Concord 4500ZX|Polycom 512MP |Polycom SP 128 |Polycom Viewstation SP128|

|Erie (Reed - 3) |Hershey (Academic Support|Great Valley (Grad Center|UP (Ag Admin - 401E) |UP (Rider Building - 509)|UP (Rider Building - 210)|

| |- 2102) |- 228 Main) | | | |

|Harrisburg (Olmsted - |Abington (Woodland - 116)|Great Valley (Safeguard | | | |

|W117C) | |Scientifics - Musser) | | | |

|Lehigh Valley (Corporate |Great Valley (Grad Center| | | | |

|Center - 120L) |- 102) | | | | |

|Schuylkill (Classroom |Shenango (McDowell Hall -| | | | |

|Building - C110) |110) | | | | |

|UP (Bank of America |UP (Land & Water Research| | | | |

|Career - 239) |- 113) | | | | |

|UP (Beam Business Admin -|UP (Bank of America | | | | |

|410) |Career - 241) | | | | |

|UP (Kern - 102) |UP (Ag Science - 118) | | | | |

|UP (Steidle - 202) | | | | | |

|UP (Deike - Various) | | | | | |

|UP (Rackley - 203) | | | | | |

|UP (Park Ave - 110) | | | | | |

|UP (Technology Center - | | | | | |

|101B) | | | | | |

11 Appendix E: Video Technology Comparison Chart

| |Polycom |Adobe Connect |MediaSite Live |Elluminate Live! |

|Facilitator (Sender) Experience | | | | |

|Synchronous 2-way audio |Yes |Yes |No |Yes |

|Synchronous 2-way video |Yes |Yes |No |Yes |

|Present to individual(s) |Yes |Yes |Yes |Yes |

|Present to group(s) |Yes |Yes |Yes |Yes |

|Present to multiple locations |Yes |Yes |Yes |Yes |

|simultaneously | | | | |

|Present to in-person and distance |Yes |Yes, but successful execution|Yes |Yes |

|audience(s) (simultaneously) | |requires practice and | | |

| | |experience and the room needs| | |

| | |an adequate sound system | | |

| | |(speakers and mics) | | |

|Present Synchronous videos/DVDs |Yes, from DVD player |Not dependable, depends on |Yes, if pre-recorded |Yes, from computer |

| | |bandwidth and computer | | |

| | |processor | | |

|Share documents/PowerPoints/still |Yes, with doc cam or laptop |Yes |Yes |Yes |

|photos | | | | |

|Synchronous 1-way whiteboard |Yes |Yes |Yes |Yes |

|Synchronous 2-way whiteboard |No |Yes |No |Yes |

|Synchronous 1-way computer |Yes |Yes |No |Yes |

|demo/simulation | | | | |

|Synchronous 2-way computer |No |Yes |No |Yes |

|demo/simulation | | | | |

|Group chat/text message (IM) |No |Yes |No |Yes |

|capability | | | | |

|Participant polling capability |No |Yes |Yes |Yes |

|Record the session for later use |Yes |Yes |Yes |Yes |

| | | | | |

|Participant (Receiver) Experience | | | | |

|Synchronous 2-way audio |Yes |Yes, but successful execution|Yes, but limited in viewing |Yes |

| | |requires practice and |size. | |

| | |experience | | |

|Synchronous 2-way video |Yes |Yes, but successful execution|No |Yes |

| | |requires practice and | | |

| | |experience | | |

|Present/Demo/speak to instructor |Yes |Yes |No |Yes |

|Present/demo/speak to |Yes |Yes |No |Yes |

|classmates/other sites | | | | |

|Watch Synchronous videos/DVDs |Yes |Not dependable, depends on |Yes |Yes |

| | |bandwidth and computer | | |

| | |processor | | |

|View documents/PowerPoints/still |Yes |Yes |Yes |Yes |

|photos | | | | |

|Draw on whiteboard or display own |Yes |Yes |No |Yes |

|computer | | | | |

|Chat/text message (IM) |No |Yes |Yes, one way in |Yes |

|Participate in polls |No |Yes |Yes |Yes |

| | | | | |

|Facilitator (Sender) Equipment | | | | |

|Polycom camera |Yes |No |No |No |

|Desktop/Other camera |Yes |Yes (Optional if instructor |Yes |Yes (Optional if instructor |

| | |wants to use) | |wants to use) |

|Television monitor |Yes |No, but computer projector is|No |No |

| | |required if there is a | | |

| | |face-to-face audience with | | |

| | |the presenter | | |

|Desktop monitor |Yes |Yes |No |Yes |

|Audio (telephone) |Optional |Optional |No |Optional |

|Microphones |Optional |Yes |Yes |Yes |

|Document camera |Optional |No |Optional |No |

|Smartboard |Optional |No |Optional |No |

|Classroom |Yes |Optional |Yes |Yes |

|Computer with wired Internet |Optional |Yes |Optional |Yes |

|connection and speakers | | | | |

|Classroom sound system that works |Yes |Yes, necessary if there is a |Optional |Yes, but Not recommended. |

|with the computer's sound out | |face-to-face audience with | |There are better technologies|

| | |the presenter and remote | |to use in these situations. |

| | |participants are broadcasting| | |

| | |audio | | |

| | | | | |

|Participant (Receiver) Equipment | | | | |

|Polycom camera |Yes |No |No |No |

|Desktop/Other camera |Yes |Optional |No |Optional |

|Television monitor |Yes |No |No |No |

|Desktop monitor |Yes |Yes |Yes |Yes |

|Audio (telephone) |Optional |Optional |No |Optional |

|Microphones |Optional |Optional |No |Optional, but recommended for|

| | | | |participation. |

|Classroom |Yes |No |No |No |

|Computer with dependable Internet |Yes |Yes |Yes |Yes, High-speed recommended |

|connection and speakers | | | |if session contains media |

| | | | |(videos or multimedia). |

| | | | | |

|Participant (Receiver) Location | | | | |

|Internal Penn State Classroom |Reservation required |Optional |Reservation required |Optional, but Not best use of|

|Facility | | | |technology. |

|External Classroom/Meeting Room |Need Polycom or other brand |Optional |Optional |Optional, but Not best use of|

|Facility |of videoconferencing | | |technology. |

| |equipment, bridge may be | | | |

| |needed to connect more than 2| | | |

| |sites | | | |

|Desktop/Laptop on a Penn State |No (Yes, in future) |Yes |Yes |Yes |

|network | | | | |

|Desktop/Laptop within a business or |No (Yes, in future) |Yes; fire wall challenges |Yes; firewall challenges if |Yes; fire wall challenges |

|organization | | |Not set correctly | |

|Desktop/Laptop in an individual's |No (Yes, in future) |Yes |Yes |Yes |

|home | | | | |

| | | | | |

|Current Deployments | | | | |

|Frequency of use |200+ classrooms available at |Currently in transition from |Deployed at 16 locations |World Campus - used everyday |

| |all campuses and 67 extension|Beta to permanent location, |(does this mean classrooms? |by instructors and students |

| |offices |approximately 32,000 |How many at UP? How many | |

| | |meetings/month |other campuses?) | |

| | | | | |

|Required Support | | | | |

|Supported by Penn State |Yes |No -- supported by ITS/CSS |No |No, Hosted solution supported|

|Telecommunications and Networking | | | |by vendor. |

|Services (TNS) | | | | |

|Supported by Penn State Media & |No |No |Yes |No |

|Technology Support Services and | | | | |

|Vendor (Sonic Foundry) | | | | |

|Dedicated Network (LAN/IP Backbone) |Yes |No |No |No |

|Presenter support needed (equipment,|Yes |Yes |None |Optional, If instructor needs|

|camera, etc.) | | | |support Outreach Helpdesk |

| | | | |provides training. |

| | | | | |

|Licensing | | | | |

|Unlimited license |Yes |Yes |Approximately $25,000 per |3-Year Contract for 100 |

| | | |site |Concurrent Seats. (As this is|

| | | | |a 24/7 solution for DE we |

| | | | |have never come close to |

| | | | |using all 100 seats at the |

| | | | |same time) |

| | | | | |

|Required Training | | | | |

|Facilitator (Sender) |Medium |High |None |Medium |

|Participant (Receiver) |Low |Medium |Low |Low |

|Technology Support/IT Professional | | | |Vendor provides technical |

| | | | |support to Elluminate |

| | | | |administrators. |

|C&DE Delivery Unit Staff (CE, WC, | | | |Outreach Helpdesk provides |

|POD, etc.) | | | |training for instructors and |

| | | | |assistance to students. |

| | | | | |

|Technology Issues/Concerns | | | | |

|Facilitator (Sender) |Need bridge service to |Needs reliable, high-speed, |Set up time, high speed |Can be used on 56k dial up |

| |connect various models; |wired Internet connections |internet connection |modem, but recommend at least|

| |should limit to three or | | |DSL if use media in session. |

| |fewer sites for best | | |Also, can be used effectively|

| |interaction; Video over the | | |without a camera. An audio |

| |internet is No charge. | | |headset is recommended to |

| |Conversion video has a per | | |eliminate audio feedback |

| |hour fee. | | |during session. |

|Participant (Receiver) |Requires participant to be in|Needs dependable Internet |DSL or higher |Can be used on 56k dial up |

| |a Polycom classroom, either |connection to participate; | |modem, but recommend at least|

| |on or off campus |wired, high-speed (Not | |DSL if use media in session. |

| | |dial-up) to present | |Also, can be used effectively|

| | | | |without a camera and |

| | | | |microphone, but it is |

| | | | |recommended that students |

| | | | |have ability for two way |

| | | | |audio communications to |

| | | | |participate effectively. |

|Technology Support/IT Professional |Sometimes connectivity issues|May be firewall issues; may |May be firewall issues, but |If a student is participating|

| |or equipment failure |be issues if participants are|Not if configured correctly |from a company location with |

| | |using dial-up modems | |a firewall the Outreach |

| | | | |Helpdesk will work with them |

| | | | |and their IT folks to assure |

| | | | |Elluminate Live will work |

| | | | |through a secure port. |

|C&DE Delivery Unit Staff (CE, WC, |Requires advance scheduling |May be firewall issues; may |Requires advance scheduling;|If a student is participating|

|POD, etc.) |(but can be done on 1 hour |be issues if participants are|may want IT |from a company location with |

| |Notice for emergency |using dial-up modems | |a firewall the Outreach |

| |meetings) | | |Helpdesk will work with them |

| | | | |and their IT folks to assure |

| | | | |Elluminate Live will work |

| | | | |through a secure port. |

| | | | | |

|Overall Benefits | | | | |

|Facilitator (Sender) |Easy to use; free |Easy to use with practice |Easy to use, archival, can |Easy to use |

| |connectivity within the | |connect with Skype | |

| |university system; dedicated | | | |

| |classrooms available | | | |

|Participant (Receiver) |Easy to use |Easy to use |Easy to use, No software |Automatic Java applet |

| | | |needed, local record (PC |downloads when first used or |

| | | |only) for CD to play later |when new version released. No|

| | | | |action required by user other|

| | | | |than to allow the auto |

| | | | |download. Toll-free customer |

| | | | |support available |

|Technology Support/IT Professional |Easy set-up and maintenance |Easy set-up and maintenance |Easy set-up and maintenance |Easy set-up and maintenance |

12 Appendix F: Faculty Guide to Teaching through Videoconferencing



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13 Appendix G: Initial Charge Document

Charge to

Blended Learning/Video Committee

March, 2008

Purpose/Goal of Committee

To determine how Continuing and Distance Education can become a significant provider of Blended Learning and Video based courses and programs across the Commonwealth and beyond.

Desired Committee Outcome

A set of recommendations that outlines how C&DE can launch and operate a functional capability for delivering high quality learning experiences through blended and video based courses and programs.

Background

C&DE has not been highly active in the blended learning/video programming arena. There are selected uses. The World Campus uses Illuminate Live somewhat. CE@UP has occasionally used Pictel and video-streaming. While Distance Education previously engaged in Teleconferencing through a broadcast mode, once the World Campus moved into the web arena, essentially most video based and blended approaches halted.

This is not to say there isn’t a market for blended and video based programming. Some data suggests that perhaps only 20% of the overall online market wantß online exclusively. There is also data that suggests that there are as many learners participating through video as through online learning at this time. Even at Penn State, the College of Engineering has effectively used video for a long time.

All of this suggests that Penn State and C&DE may be under-utilizing these alternative delivery mechanisms. Should not C&DE be in a position to take advantage of all delivery media, using each as appropriate and for audiences as they need it? That’s the challenge. The Committee’s task is to help Penn State C&DE do that.

Issues to Address

Principles

--What principles should guide the establishment and subsequent implementation of a blended/learning and video capability?

Learning

--What’s necessary to ensure that C&DE provides high quality learning experiences through blended and video based programming rather than simply providing access?

Equipment

--What systems (Adobe Connect, Pictel, Illuminate????) should be utilized to give C&DE the capability of delivering high quality blended and video based courses and programs?

--What specific equipment must be purchased to make this capability a reality?

--What are the pros and cons of the various video based technologies available? What’s the best for Penn State C&DE?

Capacity

--What volume of activity (numbers of classes offered at once? number of students the system can handle?) should we develop the capability for?

Staffing

--One position has already been created that will provide support for the service and be located in the OB building. (See attached job description). Is additional support needed?

--What kind of support services are necessary at the campuses to make this capability functional across Penn State?

Launch Timeframe

--I want to launch the first courses delivered through this capability in the Fall, 2008 semester. Is that possible? Is that reasonable?

Budget

--What budget is required to launch the service?

--What budget is required on an annual basis?

Existing Resources

--Tentative plans are to locate the equipment in Room 119 OB in order to have dedicated space to maximize use of the capability

--$100,000 is available during the current fiscal to purchase new equipment

Constraints

Other Considerations

--How can C&DE and WPSU most effectively use this capability together?

Other Issues

Please identify them

Timeline

--The Committee should submit a report and set of recommendations no later than May 15, 2008.

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