Abstract:

The Lord gave us inspiration to use educational technology and new furniture for Collaborative learning models, in order to enhance the learning process, i.e., to improve students’ learning and contribute to the construction of knowledge in a way we have never seen before, by providing teachers and students with the educational and technological tools they need.

This paper describes the integration of technology and pedagogy with furniture flexibility in every learning space in order to improve the student’s learning process. It also covers the transformation of all traditional classrooms of the University into authentic automated (smart) learning spaces, which includes placing in each learning environment: an Ultra-short throw projector that converts any flat surface into an interactive board; a document camera capable of recording classes and videoconferencing (it will be available in the second stage), a desktop computer inside a desk for the teacher’s use, electrical and Internet connectivity, sound, wireless Internet access for everyone, automation plates administered over the network which integrates these resources (including audio volume level), connectivity plate located next to the teacher’s desk to connect a laptop with audio, flexible furniture which promotes collaborative work. Every desktop computer includes specialized software, and interactive tools to use the whiteboard as an interactive surface.

The project includes the automation of around 350 classrooms in five stages, God willing, this form of smart learning space will be standard in each classroom.

Our University has designed and implemented a training program for teachers using the automated learning environment. Taking advantage of these new educational technologies, and new learning strategies (collaborative learning) as well.

Another important topic is that we are using a Learning Management System (LMS) in a supportive role in face to face classes.
We thank God for letting us integrate, install and implement this project. We emphasize that the university did not hire the help of any external company. All the work is being done by members of our staff who have put together an excellent team.

Keywords:

Smart learning space, collaborative work, learning process, automation.