London School of Economics and Political Science, The Robinson Rooms
| Further Details: | The Robinson Rooms |
| Type of Project: | Refurbishment |
| Start/End Date: | 2004 (opened Jan 2005) |
Technology
A comprehensive range of technologies is available to users: video streaming; audio zoning; SMARTboards; video conferencing; wireless networking; collaborative and decision software; tablet PCs; magnetic work walls; a personal response system and voting devices; information pods and recording facilities.
Examples of use are very varied. In one example, participatory face-to-face activities were initiated by use of audio-visual resources projected on to mobile SMARTboards; or screens, while digital cameras recorded the ensuing role-play and immersive learning activities. Video files or still images of the activities were then uploaded to a web page or the VLE, providing both records of the activity and opportunities for further observation and analysis. Tablet PCs can also be brought into play to provide flexible access to databases, in-house electronic resources and the internet.
Adding Value
The design of the rooms has taken into account the need for group working which incorporates the use of technology. A network of floor-level electrical power sockets allows tables to be arranged into a large square for whole-group discussion or re-arranged into groups of four or smaller while laptops, tablets or video cameras are in use. For complete flexibility, a wireless network covers the Robinson Rooms, although other parts of the Old Building cannot be guaranteed access to wireless connectivity.
The Robinson Rooms allow exploration of creative uses of technology that don't place new demands on practitioners. An inter-disciplinary team of graphic artists, AV technicians and web designers can be booked to provide event production support - for example, graphic artists/scribes can be deployed to capture and transmit ideas, decisions, and outputs as visual documents. It must be noted, however, that experimental and high-tech spaces such as The Robinson Rooms will generate a need for additional technical and managerial support if their potential is to be fully realised.
