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Overview of the Upgrade Initiative
In the summer of 2025, University College Cork (UCC) completed a comprehensive upgrade programme affecting 44 teaching rooms across the campus. The project was carried out by the IT Services department, funded through AccessUCC, and coordinated with Buildings & Estates and the Centre for Digital Education. The aim was to create a more inclusive learning environment that supports a wide range of teaching and learning styles.
Why Accessible Learning Matters at UCC
Accessibility is more than a legal requirement; it is a core value for a university that intends to nurture talent from all backgrounds. Studies show that students with improved audio and visual cues perform better in course assessments, and faculty who can move freely through a lecture hall can deliver content more naturally. UCC’s commitment to accessible learning aligns with Ireland’s national education strategy and the university’s strategic plan for digital transformation.
Benefits for Students and Staff
- Clearer in‑room audio reduces the need for personal amplification devices.
- Automatic camera tracking captures the lecturer’s interactions, enabling asynchronous learning.
- Digital podiums provide ergonomically‑friendly lectern options.
- Enhanced displays improve note‑taking for students with visual impairments.
Key Features of the Upgraded Classrooms
The upgrades encompass several technical and design improvements:
- High‑quality microphones placed at the lectern and adjacent teaching areas, eliminating the need for wearable or handheld mics.
- Smart camera systems that track the lecturer’s movements and automatically record the session when UCC Replay (Panopto) is scheduled or when the room is in MS Teams mode.
- Integration of new speakers that deliver consistent sound coverage across larger spaces.
- Installation of educational podiums equipped with built‑in audio control panels and accessibility features.
- Re‑wiring for high‑speed network connectivity, supporting real‑time video lectures and resource sharing.
- Upgraded display panels that support captioning and high‑contrast viewing modes.
- Re‑housing and re‑allocation of existing functional equipment to maximise resource efficiency across campus.
Impact on Teaching Methodology
With microphones that capture lecturer voice clearly, educators can focus on delivering content rather than managing audio equipment. The camera tracking feature means that students who miss a live lecture can view a crisp recording that follows the lecturer, maintaining engagement. Faculty now have greater freedom to move through a lecture chamber, encouraging more interactive teaching methods such as think‑pair‑share or small group discussions.
How Faculty Can Leverage the New Equipment
Designing a lecture plan that incorporates video‑recorded segments and live polls becomes simpler with the upgraded tech. Some practical techniques include:
- Use the built‑in podium controls to switch between a microphone, speaker, and recorded audio during a session.
- Insert recorded micro‑modules that focus on key concepts before returning to live discussion.
- Capture live captions during broadcasts to support students with hearing impairments.
- Benefit from stabilized video feeds that reduce eye‑strain for remote learners.
Student Experience Enhancements
Students report a measurable improvement in learning outcomes after the upgrades. Lower levels of in‑room noise confusion and higher audio clarity mean that new learners can follow lectures without fatigue. Furthermore, the availability of viewing options in UCC Replay supports asynchronous study, allowing students to review complex material at their own pace.
How to Make the Most of the Upgraded Learning Space
- Arrive early to test the microphone placement if you plan to use your own headset.
- Turn on captioning in MS Teams or UCC Replay to follow real‑time dialogue.
- Use the digital podium’s adjustable transfer‑switch to switch audio sources without leaving the chair.
- Ask faculty for audio‑accompaniment guidelines if you have a hearing impairment.
Technical Aspects: Behind the Scenes
The project required a cross‑disciplinary approach. IT Services handled the integration of audio‑visual hardware with UCC’s learning management systems, ensuring that microphone and camera signals synced seamlessly with Panopto and MS Teams. Buildings & Estates managed the structural and electrical work, while the Centre for Digital Education provided user experience testing and feedback loops. This collaboration minimised downtime and helped roll out the upgrades in phases to limit disruption to scheduled courses.
Project Governance and Funding
Funding from AccessUCC—UCC’s student‑focused accessibility program—was the cornerstone of the initiative. AccessUCC’s grant covers the full cost of equipment acquisition, install, and technical integration. The project includes ongoing maintenance contracts to keep the hardware updated and aligned with emerging standards.
Future Outlook: Extending Accessibility Across Campus
While the current upgrades focus on teaching spaces, UCC has outlined a campus‑wide strategy to extend accessible learning. Planned next steps include:
- Expanding high‑definition camera coverage to all lecture theatres.
- Installing universal access chairs in study halls.
- Integrating AI‑based captioning in all recorded video courses.
- Providing faculty training on inclusive teaching techniques.
These initiatives will further reinforce UCC’s reputation as a leading institution that prioritises inclusive education in Ireland.
Getting Involved With UCC’s Accessibility Initiative
Students, staff, and alumni who are passionate about learning accessibility can support the project in several ways. Faculty may contribute by volunteering for pilot testing of new classroom tech. Students can provide feedback through the Accessibility Feedback Portal, and alumni may sponsor equipment upgrades through the UCC Advancement Alumni Fund.
Call to Action
Students interested in experiencing UCC’s state‑of‑the‑art classrooms can schedule a campus tour. Prospective applicants should submit your application today to join a community that values inclusive learning. Faculty looking for professional development in accessible teaching can enroll in UCC’s studio‑based training program. For more information on UCC’s accessibility initiatives, visit the accessibility page.
Discover how UCC’s commitment to accessible learning is shaping the future of education in Ireland. If you have questions or would like to get involved, contact the IT services helpdesk.
