
Technology Tips
The information below is summarized from a presentation by Drew Tucci of BU's Educational Communications office, given at the August 30, 2012 Institute for Student-Centered Learning workshop. A video of that presentation will be posted here soon.
Educational Communications
- can help with all audiovisual equipment built into BU classrooms, wireless microphones, adapters for computers etc.
- sells various adapters and connection cables at cost
- will visit classroom with you before semester begins to make sure everything is working, and show how to use everything if necessary
- Lecture Hall B48
- 777-4757
- EdCom website
Computer Help Desk
- can help with computers in BU classrooms, your office computer or laptop, network issues (getting online)
- Computer Center lobby
- 777-6420
- Computer Center website
Course Planning and Academic Space Management
- can schedule your class in a room that meets your needs (technology, seating arrangements, etc)
- 777-6872
University Center for Training and Development
- Blackboard training and help
- Training on iClickers, Elluminate, and other software packages available on campus
- 777-6362
Best practices
- Visit classroom, test everything you will need. Classrooms are open one week before semester starts. EdComm can visit with you by appointment.
- Call AV immediately if there's trouble. All classrooms have a phone with number for help. 2/3 of problems can be solved over the phone.
- Save materials in multiple formats and different platforms (Apple, PC), accessible in different ways (flash drive, internet, etc).
- Common AV problems: loose connector on monitor, dead batteries on wireless mic, "pic mute" or wrong input selected (preventing input display).
- Laptop display problems: laptop graphics card not set for Video Out, incorrect screen resolution, check cable and connector pins. Connect everything, turn on projector, turn laptop on last.