Temple University Center City (TUCC) is in the middle of an important technology boom.
While major construction continues to redesign and maximize space efficiency, numerous technology upgrades are being made within TUCC’s classrooms.
“With greater use of varied teaching and learning platforms, our students and faculty need updated technology more than ever,” said William Parshall, Director fo Temple University Center City. “In our efforts to provide strategic direction and long-term support for campus technology — including classrooms, online and distance education, professional development and training, technological support and administrative efficiency — we consistently evaluate the infrastructure of TUCC’s IT (information technology) and make needed replacements and upgrades to support institutional effectiveness and student success at the campus.”
The latest technological additions include 28 new LCD projectors (bringing the total to 48 new projectors over the past eighteen months). A conversion from analog to digital platforms, New workstations in three computer classrooms, high-speed internet improvements and a conversion from analog to digital platforms is currently underway. A new power charger kiosk will also be installed during the 2018-2019 school year.
The $300,000 in improvements has been financed by a shared investment between Temple’s IT Services Department, University College, funds generated by meeting and training space rentals at TUCC, and from TUCC student fees.
According to Parshall, TUCC technology users may expect to see a significant improvement in overall capacity and coverage.
“These improvements are part of a five-year plan culminating in 2022 and are direct investments in the hardware necessary to ensure that TUCC’s technology platforms remain current. The campus will continue to provide upgrades and improvements as technology tools and applications change,” he said. “This fall, about 72 percent of our classrooms will have digital projection capabilities, faster computers with faster download speeds, improved multimedia capabilities and the potential to display a higher volume of information”
Surveys that distributed bi-annually to TUCC faculty and students “have always reinforced the importance of technology enhancements,” Parshall said. This feedback has played a central role in helping to identify, select and prioritize technology improvements.
Recent enhancements have included Previous IT enhancements have included increased internet bandwidth to 1 Gbps; updated Wi-Fi access points in classrooms and public spaces; new workstations in two computer labs and in faculty suites; updated peripheral hardware, remotes, and accessories; and safety upgrades including additional cameras and lighting in and around the periphery of the building.