University partners with global tech companies to create ‘advanced learning environment’

The university unveiled a state-of-the-art learning space on campus made possible through a partnership with two major global technology companies.

As active learning classroom spaces—which bring together cutting-edge technology with nontraditional learning pedagogies —become more established across the country, the university is leading this trend with a new “advanced learning environment” thanks to the support of global tech giants ViewSonic and Acer.

With top executives from both companies on hand this month for a special ribbon-cutting ceremony, the university unveiled its new space, which is located on the first floor of the Academic Computing Building, the home of the university’s pioneering Center for Information Systems & Technology.

Ribbon-cutting ceremony attendees included Acer founder Stan Shih (who attended via Skype); Maverick Shih, a member of Acer’s Board of Directors; ViewSonic founder James Chu; and Craig Scott, ViewSonic’s Chief Technology Officer.

“The old model of classroom learning is about the teacher as the ‘sage on the stage,’ but that changes in a space like this,” CGU President Len Jessup told attendees. “Instead the teacher is ‘a guide on the side’ helping students in an active learning environment.”

CGU’s new advanced learning environment features the following equipment:

• Viewsonic has provided five of their award winning ViewBoard Interactive Digital WhiteBoards with mobile trolleys, an ePoster Interactive Kiosk and two HD Ultra Short Throw Laser Projectors along with their award winning myViewBoard Software and
  Eco-system that enables a variety of flexible teaching pedagogies, including Huddle and SCALEUP to support active learning and increase student engagement.”
• Acer has provided a total of forty Travelmate P series laptop computers whose ultralight, ultra-powerful, and ultra-secure design was honored with a Good Design Award for 2019.
• In addition, the room’s northern wall has been fitted with smart glass that can change from transparent to opaque to facilitate classroom privacy by either creating a “wall” or by inviting outside viewers to observe.

Advanced learning environments challenge traditional classroom layouts and methods. These rooms use technology and open-floor layouts to boost interactivity among various small groups as well as facilitate discussions between on- and off-site participants for group work, meetings, and classroom discussions.

ViewSonic has been a leading provider of visual solutions for over 30 years, a recognized global top 3 digital whiteboard provider, and leading innovator for visual solutions technology for work, play and learning.

“The way people learn is changing,” said ViewSonic’s James Chu, “and we believe that educational spaces like this one are very important.”

Similarly, Acer has been a pioneer in developing hardware, software, and services that support the kinds of interaction and accessibility that CGU students will experience in the new space.

“I hope that this equipment will help your school create an educational experience for the future,” Stan Shih said. “I can’t think of a better place for this than Claremont Graduate University.”

CGU trustees Alfred Balitzer and Wen Chang provided additional support to renovate the learning space, including new modular furniture to support a new free-flowing floor design. In addition to enhancing the student experience, Jessup hopes that the room will serve companies in the region as an accessible, fully wired, meeting space.

Jessup also credited Chang for being “the connector” who brought everyone to the table to make the new space possible.

“I want to thank our president for his leadership and vision,” said Chang, “and I want to thank ViewSonic and Acer for supporting this incredible project.”