University of Saskatchewan Classroom Enhancement Program Page 1 of 15
Table of Contents Tab 1 Program Overview Program Description Program Objectives Program Structure and Operation Tab 2 Classroom Standards Tab 3 Sample Forms Accessibility Acoustics Audio Visual Chalkboards Computer Network Connections Electrical Power Furniture Student, Instructor Finishes Floors, Walls Lighting Measure Miscellaneous Room Layout Room Numbering and Information Window Coverings WIRF (Work Initiation and Request Form) CUF (Classroom Upgrade Form) Page 2 of 15
Page 3 of 15
Program Overview Program Description The Condition and functionality of classrooms are key factors in the outcome of the education process. To ensure optimal results, classrooms must be conducive to teaching and learning. The Classroom Enhancement Program is intended to be the vehicle used for upgrading and maintaining classrooms across campus. Upgrading means modifying the physical characteristics of a classroom such as the size, layout, lighting, seating and acoustics. Upgrading also means installing devices and equipment that expand the toolkit of instructors, allowing instructors to be more effective and efficient. The net result is an enhanced learning experience for students. Program Objectives The general objective of the Program is to ensure classrooms on the University Campus are suitable for, and fully support, the educational mandate and strategy of the University. The specific objective of the Classroom Enhancement Program are to have classrooms that: Meet accessibility requirements. Are suitable for, and capable of, accommodating different presentation methods including multi-media. Have the flexibility to be used by all disciplines. Are easy to maintain. Have adequate security to protect the space and its contents. Respond to and accommodate the varying HVAC loads imposed by people, equipment and activities. Allow artificial and natural lighting levels to be simply and quickly controlled. Contain furniture suitable for the anticipated users. Have appropriate window treatments Have signage that conveys sufficient information about the classroom to instructors, students, University personnel. While the Classroom Enhancement Program is primarily focused on upgrading existing classrooms, it is intended also to assist with the design and construction of new classrooms. Page 4 of 15
Program Overview Program Structure and Operation The Classroom Enhancement Program was initiated by FMD (Facilities Management Division) in 2001 to ensure needed classroom upgrades are identified, budgeted for and carried out in planned approach. A Classroom Enhancement Working Group was formed to assist FMD devlop and operate the Program. The Working Group consists of representatives from: Space Development, Planning and Development, FMD Capital Planning, Planning and Development, FMD Interior Design, Architectural and Engineering Services, FMD Room Scheduling, Planning and Development, FMD Operations and Maintenance, FMD DAVS USSU Faculty Instructional Development Committee Disability Services for Students DCS Faculty In general, the duties and responsibilities of the Working Group include: 1) Establish and maintain a rolling five-year plan, which, in general, describes the classroom enhancement work to be undertaken in terms of type of work, type of space, location on campus, for example. 2) Prepare an annual plan that includes: a) The classrooms to be upgraded in the upcoming fiscal year. b) A budget for each classroom upgrade proposed in the upcoming fiscal year. c) The scope of upgrading work for each classroom. 3) Annually prepare a report which outlines what was accomplished and to what extent the upgrading work undertaken satisfies the program objectives. 4) Implement improvements to the program where required. 5) Conduce meetings as required. Work undertaken through the Classroom Enhancement Program is funded by the Minor Capital Budget. Page 5 of 15
Classroom Standards Index of Classroom Standards 1.0 Accessibility 1.1 Wheelchairs 2.0 Acoustics 3.0 Audio Visual Equipment and Systems 3.1 Lecture Theatres 3.1.1 Consoles 3.1.2 Controls 3.1.3 Projection Screens 3.1.4 Video/Data Projectors 3.1.5 Sound Reinforcement System 3.1.6 Assistive Hearing Systems 3.1.7 35 mm Projectors 3.1.8 Overhead Projectors and Carts 3.1.9 Electrical Requirements 3.1.10 Millwork Requirements 3.2 Labs and Large Classrooms 3.2.1 Video/Data Projectors 3.2.2 Controls 3.2.3 Sound Reinforcement System 3.2.4 Projection Screens 3.2.5 Electrical Requirements 3.2.6 Millwork Requirements 3.3 Mobile Multimedia Consoles 4.0 Boards 4.1 Size 4.2 Location 4.3 Mounting Height 4.4 Color 5.0 Computer Network Connections 5.1 Quantity & Capacity\ 5.2 Location Page 6 of 15
Classroom Standards 6.0 Electrical Power 6.1 Quantity & Capacity 6.2 Location 7.0 Furniture 7.1 Student 7.1.1 Tables 7.1.2 Chairs 7.1.3 Tablet Arms 7.2 Instructor 8.0 Finishes 7.2.1 Desk 7.2.2 Lectern 8.1 Floor Coverings 8.2 Wall Finishes 9.0 Lighting 9.1 Levels 9.2 Types 9.3 Controls 10.0 Room Layout 10.1 Depth, Width, Height 10.2 Doors 10.3 Number 10.4 Location 11.0 Room Numbering 11.1 Font and Style 11.2 Size 11.3 Mounting Location 12.0 Room Information Placard 12.1 Specifications 12.2 Content 12.3 Mounting Location Page 7 of 15
13.0 Window Coverings 13.1 Venetian Blinds & Hardware 13.2 Blackout Curtains & Hardware 14.0 Miscellaneous Page 8 of 15
1.0 Accessibility Identify needs for hearing impaired and visually impaired students. 1.1 Wheelchairs Ensure that all classrooms are accessible. Identify needs for wheelchair accessibility. Develop a design to realistically modify existing raised decks to make them accessible. Ramps should be 12:1 grade ratio. Water fountain spout height should be 36-38 with a clearance of 28. Telephone coin slot height should be no greater that 56. Computer printer height if set on a table, 54 maximum. It is recommended that it be inset into a cupboard such as in Thorvaldson lab. Power assisted doors should be timed at 15 seconds for a single door opening, 20 seconds if inside and outside doors opening. 2.0 Acoustics Identify acoustic standards and recommend upgrading when required. 3.0 Audio Visual Equipment and Systems Identify specific needs with DAVS. Identify permanent and book able equipment. 3.1 Lecture Theatres 3.1.1 Consoles The standard Lecture Theatre console will be a per the Facilities drawings (see Laurel Kelly or Daryl Cherry). The orientation of the wing will be determined by the theatre layout. In all instances the console will be placed as far to the right or left of centre as room logistics allow. The console will have a keyless entry system with a programmable access panel. The Console Control Surface will contain: i. Low voltage controls for zoned, dimmed theatre lighting, plus controls for switched A/C outlets (35mm and or 16mm projectors) ii. A/V Interface Panel containing auxiliary video/audio/i/o and network connections. iii. Auxiliary Computer Interface Panel iv. Keyless Entry Keypad v. Surge Protected A/C outlets vi. Secured storage space for Touch Screen Control Panel Secured Storage drawers for wireless microphones, computer mouse, laser pointers, auxiliary interconnect cables etc. The console design incorporates a pull out drawer that will accommodate a high resolution, 700 lines or better, Visualizer c/w LCD preview monitor. This visualizer must conform to standard RS232 control protocols. Page 9 of 15
The console will have a dedicated VHS VCR capable of SVHS playback and having full shuttle control. Fully equipped current technology PC type computer c/w dedicated network connection and wireless R.F mouse. All common software applications will be included in the computer package. Rack Sleeve will contain all control mainframe for Touch Screen Control System and all associated video and RGB switching and amplification equipment. This equipment must be front accessible through secured sliding doors and back of equipment must be accessible through a locked service panel. A panel containing additional high and low impedance line/microphone inputs and outputs on a variety of connector types. A collapsible lectern that can be stored in a secured drawer. Computer interconnects cables that will be stored in the secured storage drawer and utilized to interconnect auxiliary computer equipment. Laser pointer for highlighting details of presented images. 3.1.3 Projection Screens There should be two projection screens per classroom centre and corner. All multimedia source, switching and amplification equipment, including data projector will be controlled via an icon based Touch Screen Control system. Tensioned motorized projection screen sized appropriately to the room dimensions. 3.1.4 Sound Reinforcement System Full range audio system with active feedback cancellation and equalization processors. The Sound System will incorporate: a wireless high frequency agile UHF microphone system, a minimum of three additional microphone inputs, high and low impedance line level inputs, and provisions for a Press Feed Panel as described above. Sound disbursement will be either through a central speaker cluster or through disbursed in ceiling mount speaker enclosures as determined by room acoustical characteristics and logistics. Further, audio room acoustics must meet minimum reverberations time constants as prescribed for audio reinforcement. 3.1.5 Assistive Hearing System High Frequency Infrared Assistive Hearing transmitter and receivers to provide headphone based program sound reinforcement for those with hearing impairments. 3.1.7 35 mm Projectors Page 10 of 15
High Light Output 35 mm slide projectors equipped with an appropriate lens and controlled via the Touch Screen Control Panel. 3.1.8 Overhead Projectors and Carts The LCD Video/Data Projector will be a t minimum a XGA Resolution, 2800 or greater Ansi Lumens brightness, conforming to standard RS232 protocols for Touch Screen control. It is assumed that as with all video/data projectors purchased on campus that these projectors meet the selection criteria established by DAVS. High Light Output Overhead Projector and Associated Cart 6000 Ansi Lumens Overhead projector mounted on specialized Overhead projector cart. *Note: In instances where a projection booth is available, we would recommend locating projectors and audio rack in the booth. 3.1.9 Electrical provisions must include: Low voltage console/booth mounted switching for zone lighting control, which will include a dimmer controlled zone for projected multi media presentations. Low voltage podium light fixture. Surge protected 120 VAC, 15 amp service to equipment rack in console, plus four-plex outlet on control surface. Minimum of one two inch conduit for control, data and video cables from console to projector location. Provisions for audio cable runs from audio rack to all speaker locations and to Assistive Hearing Transmitter. Switched electrical outlets, at 35 & 16 mm projector locations, controlled from console control surface and projection booth where applicable. Cable ducting throughout console to house all equipment interconnect cabling. Keyless entry system on all console access doors and drawers. Electrical provisions, including low voltage control on console control surface for motorized projection screen. 3.1.10 Millwork Requirements Construction of console as per attached drawings with any necessary modifications that might be necessitated by individual theatre logistics. Where applicable, the construction of or modifications to existing projection booth millwork are to accommodate data and 35/16 mm projectors. Where applicable installation of projector ceiling mount. Installation of projection screens. *Note: Current budgets for complete renewal of existing Lecture Theatres are $100,000 per theatre. 3.2 Lab and Large Classrooms Page 11 of 15
Multimedia The extent of multimedia system installation required for a given lab or classroom with be determined on a case-by case basis and to a large extent will be determined by the intended application. At minimum it is suggested that the installation would include: 3.2.1 Video/Data Projector The LCD Video/Data Projector will be at a minimum XGA Resolution, 1700 or greater Ansi Lumens brightness. It is assumed that as with all video/data projectors purchased on campus that these projectors meet the selection criteria established by DAVS. In the majority of instances the projector will be ceiling mounted utilizing a custom manufactured bracket. 3.2.2 Controls Computer Audio/Video Projector Interface Panel At or near the teaching station an architectural interface panel will be installed that will permit the connection of data, video/audio source equipment to the video/data projector. 3.2.3 Sound Reinforcement System Powered speakers c/w Wall or Ceiling Mount Brackets One or two powered speakers, as required by room dimensions and acoustics. The audio component of computer and video presentations will be routed from source via the video/data projector switching capabilities to the powered speaker locations. 3.2.4 Projection Screen Wherever practical, the projection screen will be a wall or ceiling mount tensioned manual pull down screen. 3.2.5 Electrical Requirements Electrical provisions for classroom/lab multi media installations at minimum will include: Zoned lighting, with dimmer control for projected presentations. These controls will be located in as close proximity to the teaching station as practical. A/C outlet at video/data projector location. A/C power at Interface Panel location. A/C outlet at powered speaker location. One-inch conduit from interface plate to projector location. 3.2.6 Millwork Requirements Millwork provisions for classroom/lab multi media installations at minimum will include: Provisions for mounting interface panel in existing teaching console, or when there is not teaching console, construction of the same. Securing of projector mounting brackets. Installation of projection screen. Page 12 of 15
*Note: The typical budget for equipment and required infrastructure work to equip a large classroom or lab is $14,000.00. 3.3 Mobile Multimedia Consoles There are presently three distinct styles of mobile multimedia consoles on campus; although the cart appearance and dimensions vary on these three types, the equipment compliment is standard. The following will describe the cart type that is most prevalent at this time. The mobile cart includes a secured storage drawer and provisions for the following equipment: Video/Data projector The LCD Video/Data projector will be at a minimum XGA Resolution, 1500 or great Ansi Lumens brightness. It is assumed that as with all video/data projectors purchased on campus that these projectors meet the selection criteria established by DAVS. VCR The mobile console will have a dedicated VHS VCR capable of SVHS playback and having full shuttle control. PC Type Computer Tower & Monitor Fully equipped current technology PC type computer c/w network card and wireless R.F. mouse. All common application software will be included in the computer package. Wireless Microphone System A high frequency UHF agile transmitter/receiver microphone system c/w lapel microphone. Powered Speaker A minimum 25-watt powered speaker that is interfaced with microphone, VCR and computer audio sources. Auxiliary Computer Interconnect Cables Computer interconnect cables that will be stored in the secured storage drawer and utilized to interconnect auziliary computer equipment. *Note: The typical budget for a mobile multimedia console is $15,000.00. 4.0 Boards Determine standard and minimum required amount needed. Upgrade and replace in coordination with M & O 4.2 Location The ledges that are found at the front of many classrooms on campus make access to the board impossible for people that have mobility impairments. It is recommended that a ramp be built for these ledges, or these ledges are removed. 5.0 Computer Network Connections Consult with DCS. Confirm presence of network connection. Wireless technology needs?? 6.0 Electrical Power 6.2 Location Examine easier access to power outlets and addition of more outlets in classrooms to assist students taking notes on lap top computers. Page 13 of 15
7.0 Furniture Electrical outlets should be located no greater than two feet from the accessible table. This will ensure that access to the electrical outlets is convenient, as well; it will reduce the risk of someone tripping over a cord that is lying across an aisle. 7.1 Student Examine the use of desks that can be used by students in wheelchairs and others with physical impairments. 7.1.2 Chairs Seating should be made available for those with physical ailments such as back injuries. 7.2 Instructor 8.0 Finishes There should be some standard determined, if possible, for table & chairs, and tablet arms. 7.2.1 Desk Develop a standard for instructor s desk and replace across campus. 8.1 Floor Coverings Identify standard floor covering. Coordinate upgrading with M & O. 8.2 Wall Finishes The walls of the classrooms should be painted white. This is important as different colors absorb and reflect florescent and natural light differently. In cases where people have Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome, the reflection off of the colored walls can be bothersome as it can create a flashing light effect. 9.0 Lighting Identify standards for wall color white/institutional/variety. Coordinate with M & O. General office and classroom lighting is 540 lux. The general lighting is fluorescent T- 8 lamps, non-dimming. In existing theatres if dimming was available it was left in. These have all been incandescent fixtures. If dimming did not exist, the fluorescent fixtures were re-wired to be switched to provide the different light levels requested by DAVS. In new theatres we have done much the same. The dimming compact fluorescent lamps that some consultants have wanted to use do not provide the low light levels that are needed for projection use. A consultant who spoke to a user out west who subsequently replaced Page 14 of 15
them all with incandescent lamps verified this. Incandescent lamps are undesirable due to energy efficiency and heat gain in the space. Switching has worked well. The use of four foot dimming fixtures has been avoided due to cost. They were deleted in PCS Centre when it came in over budget. The ballasts cost around $80> instead of $20 for an ordinary one. Switching in theatres with the console is low voltage and the fixtures are wired so that changes can be easily made if the light levels do not work. Most classrooms are only provided with some housekeeping receptacles around the room. If requested, a receptacle and computer outlet is provided at the front of the classroom. In theatres with consoles, of course, there are many receptacles and computer outlets. We only permit 3 or 4 computers per receptacle circuit. The florescent lights in the rooms should not buzz, flicker, nor produce a yellow tinge. This is very distracting for most students, and especially for those with hearing, visual, concentration, and learning disabilities. Lighting should have some degree of control for AV purposes. Recommended lighting levels should be established foot-candles. The upgrading should be coordinated with M & O. 10.0 Room Layout An area for wheelchairs to pull up and sit so they can face the Professor near the front of the class 10.2 Doors Doors should be adjusted so that students in wheelchairs can gain easier access to classrooms (maybe power assisted doors). 12.0 Room Information Placard 12.2 Content Develop a standard classroom information sheet that is inexpensive to install and maintain. 13.0 Window Coverings 13.2 Blackout Curtains & Hardware Identify classroom standard e.g. blackout drapes 14.0 Miscellaneous One TDD machine is needed on one of the phone locations in each of the buildings. Lighted fire alarm signals should be installed in high traffic areas throughout campus for the deaf and hearing-impaired individuals. Telephones or intercoms should be added to all elevators on campus as elevators are used by a large number of students with mobility impairments. Page 15 of 15
Keep objects such as garbage cans and chairs clear from telephones and water fountains that would otherwise be accessible. Braille must be used more throughout the campus. This includes using Braille to indicate classroom numbers and washroom locations. Identify desirable and legal limit seating capacity as well as room scheduling needs vs. fire and building code regulations. Thermal Comfort Ventilation The heating/cooling systems are to be capable of maintaining space temperature between 21 ºC and 23 ºC, maximum 60% RH, year round. In addition, buildings and systems to be designed to eliminate asymmetrical thermal radiation, drafts, vertically stratified temperature differences and overly warm or cold floors. (Refer to Ashrae Fundamentals Handbook Thermal Comfort section) The ventilation systems are to be capable of delivering a minimum of 8 l/s outdoor air per person. The distribution system is to be designed for a high level of effectiveness to ensure even ventilation throughout the space and minimum stratification or shortcircuiting between supply and return/exhaust openings. Identify minimum standards and special needs. Examine the fall/winter needs versus summer needs with regards to room scheduling allocation. Maintenance The classroom enhancement program should be coordinated with M & O to maximize and take advantage of CRDM programs. As indicated, these descriptions are based on current technologies and therefore subject to revisions as technologies evolve. Further, in order to ensure that: a) The equipment compliment and configure for any given project fit the specific teaching application and the parameters of the given space. b) To ensure continuity of facilities and to enable viable technical support. We would strongly recommend that whenever teaching spaces are being renovated or designed that the DIVISION OF AUDIO VISUAL SERVICES be contacted as early in the project as possible. Our consultation, design, installation and technical support services are offered to all teaching undertakings on the University campus on a soft Page 16 of 16
money basis and therefore does not directly impact the project budget, we would be pleased to work with your group to provide a comprehensive service to our end users. Page 17 of 17