General Purpose Classrooms (GPCs) are defined as any instructional spaces that are:
- Centrally scheduled by the Registrar
- Support multiple users in several disciplines with multiple teaching styles
- Funded and maintained by centralized service support operations
GPC Centralized Service Operations
Classroom Types
- Level I - Basic Classroom
- Level II - Presentation Classroom
- Level III - Enhanced Technology Classroom
- Level IV - Distance Learning 'DL' Classroom
- Level V - Computer Laboratory
Level I - Basic Classrooms
Level I, or 'basic' classrooms were classrooms which were only equipped with an instructor podium and a chalkboard and/or whiteboard. Level I classrooms have been discontinued within CSITS, as all have been upgraded to technology level III.
Level II - Presentation Classrooms
Classrooms equipped as technology level II were classrooms which featured an equipment box mounted near the front of the classroom outfitted with a combination DVD+VHS player, an audio monitor, and connections for auxiliary video source (such as a notebook computer) and network access. Level II classrooms have been discontinued within CSITS, as all have been upgraded to technology level III.
Level III - Enhanced Technology Classrooms
As of Fall 2009, all Oakland University General Purpose Classrooms are equipped as Level III technology classrooms. Each provide a chalkboard and/or whiteboard, digital data projector with projection screen, combination DVD+VHS player, and classroom computer connected to a digital whiteboard flat panel annotation device and document camera. All rooms provide network connectivity to the Oakland University network, have an in-room sound system, and are easily controlled by an intuitive classroom technology control system. Users have the ability to control and display digital and analog information from multiple sources onto each room's front projection screen and sound system.
Level IV - Distance Learning (DL) Classrooms
Level IV classrooms--also known as distance learning or 'DL' rooms, offer two-way, interactive learning via network connection and telepresence. Each 'DL' classroom contains all equipment found within a level III classroom, plus: a user-friendly touchscreen to manage the interactive setting; and one or more televisions, video cameras, and microphones. Behind the scenes, an audiovisual compressor--also known as a 'codec' and an I-mux (for video call management) help to facilitate an experience for participants that feels like they are all actually in the same room--even though they may be participating from another city, state, or even another country!
Level V - Computer Laboratories
Computer laboratories are classroom teaching environments that provide a computing workstation for each student participating in the class in addition to the instructor's computing and presentation workstation. As in level III and IV classrooms, the instructor’s workstation is connected to a digital projection system. Level V classrooms may also have special control capabilities to manage student workstations. Note: Computer labs are managed and maintained by the departments that own them, as CSITS is only charged with the planning and design of instructional technologies in these spaces.