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Washington State University
Washington State University Office of the Provost

General University Classroom FAQs

 

If I have a question or problem in a General University Classroom, is there one phone number I can call for help?

  • Though Academic Outreach and Innovation (AOI) is primarily responsible for classroom technology equipment, AOI staff serve as the “first responders” for any kind of question or issue you may be experiencing in a classroom and, if needed, will dispatch a classroom technician to your room. If AOI cannot help you immediately, its staff will make the necessary contacts or refer you to the appropriate department.
  • AOI support is available 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. After 5 p.m., phone support is available.
  • For general university classrooms (GUCs), the phone number for AOI is posted on the wall in every GUC: 335-5044.
  • If you are teaching in a departmental classroom and need assistance, you should contact your department’s technical support staff.

Is training provided for general university classroom technology and equipment?

What kinds of media can I show in the general university classroom?

  • The classrooms support the use of many different types of media. Local connections are provided to allow for many different media players and types. Please consult the LI website for specific amenities in your classroom.

How do I find information about room availability?

How do I reserve a room for a single time use?

How do I know which rooms have the equipment I need?

  • If you know the building you are interested in or the general location, this Learning Innovations website shows pictures of each room by building, how many students the room seats, and the available equipment. If you don’t have a preference for location, you can call Academic Outreach and Innovation at 335-5044 to describe your equipment needs. The staff can tell you which classrooms contain the specific equipment you need.

How do I control the devices in the classroom?

  • Classroom devices are controlled via an application on the classroom computer or a touch panel in the classroom.

If I bring a laptop, what equipment do I need to bring to the classroom (e.g., cables)?

  • You will need to bring the appropriate cables and adapters when connecting your equipment to classroom technology. Please visit Classroom Specs to review the connection panel available in your classroom.

Is advanced preparation required to access the internet from my laptop in the General University Classrooms?

  • University issued technology and personal technology must be registered for use on WSU network infrastructure. Please see the Crimson Service Desk for additional information.

Can I save my files to the classroom computer?

  • No. Since the classroom computers are used by all instructors using the classroom each day, they are not available for storing your files. In addition, we periodically clear the memory to ensure best performance. If you opt to use a classroom computer, always bring a thumb drive to view, edit and save your work.

Where is the microphone?

  • The wireless microphone and batteries are generally in an unlocked drawer in the classroom podium. For other microphone needs, please contact Learning Innovations.

How do I control the microphone volume?

  • The microphone level can be controlled via the Classroom Controls application or touch panel in the classroom.

Can I edit files (e.g., MS Office tools) on the classroom computer?

  • Yes, you may create or edit files using the Microsoft Office products installed on the classroom computer. These files cannot be saved on the local computer’s hard drive, however. You can save them on a storage device, such as a thumb drive, or use the internet to transfer the files to your own computer.

Can I record my lecture?

  • WSU has a system wide license for Panopto to aid in lecture capture. This tool is accessed via the learning management system. These tools can be accessed on GUC computers.

How do I use student response devices/applications?

  • Student Response systems are supported at the departmental level. Learning Innovations does not provide support for student response systems at this time.

Can I use video conference technology in the classroom?

Who pays for classroom equipment, painting, or other room upgrades?

  • If the teaching space is designated as a General University Classroom, the Provost’s GUC Committee plans for and requests funding for the upgrades through the normal university budget allocation process. If the teaching space is assigned to a department or college, the unit is responsible for the planning and funding of technology and other equipment.