2008 Woodie Awards
Multimedia classrooms added to East, West
Mary Ruth Vincent
Issue date: 2/11/05 Section: Front Page
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Amarillo College is moving into the fast lane of advanced technology with the latest additions of multimedia equipment in the classroom.
During the Christmas holidays, eight new multimedia classrooms were added on the East and West campuses.
The eight new multimedia classrooms bring the total to 72.
"We've come a long way since I started here eight years ago," said Jeff Gibson, director of technical services.
"At that time there might have been 10 or 15 classrooms that were equipped with very basic computer technology."
Gibson and his team of 13 full-time employees keep busy helping faculty and staff members with computer support issues, installation and maintenance.
"The teachers love it," Gibson said.
"So many things now are geared toward Powerpoint presentations. The visual aspect makes the learning atmosphere great."
Having access to a multimedia classroom has helped one instructor ease into his job.
"It makes my job easier," said Ben Farmer, a part-time biology instructor. "I don't have to worry about my presentation quality, like writing on the board, or using overhead projectors."
Students are finding that their learning experience is enhanced with presentations that bring their courses to life.
"I love it," said Shurlie Horn, a social work major. "I can see what the lecture is about, and it is easier to take notes. Also, it reaches all kinds of learning styles."
The college has plans to add two or three more multimedia classrooms this year.
"Eight years ago, the price to install equipment was $10,000 to $20,000," Gibson said. "Today the equipment is approximately $4,000 to $6,000. Technology gets better and cheaper.
"A great goal would be to make every class on campus a multimedia classroom."