Benchmarking for Better Learning: PSM UMPSA Researchers Visits Taylor's University & UniKL BMI
At Taylor’s University, Dr. Ahmad Mustaqim bin Yusoff, a senior lecturer, demonstrated the Panapto software, which enables lecture recordings during face-to-face classes. These recordings are then directly uploaded to the university's Learning Management System (LMS), providing both present and absent students with access to class materials. The team also toured the Virtual Extended Learning Theatre, a transformed lecture space designed for meetings and hybrid classes. Equipped with microphones at each table and multiple screens, the lab facilitates dynamic presentations and teleconferencing. Two cameras capture the lecturer's movements and student interactions, focusing on active speakers. The tour also included Virtual Online Future Technology and Extended Reality, a studio equipped for content creation using green screen, AR, and VR technologies. Notably, all classrooms at Taylor's University are equipped with Screen Beam technology, enabling wireless screen sharing from smart devices and computers (Windows and macOS).
The team's subsequent visit to UniKL BMI, led by Dr Nadia Hanis binti Abd Rahman, Senior Lecturer, showcased Smart Boards in every lecture hall. These Windows-powered interactive displays replace traditional projectors, enabling wireless content sharing and touchscreen interaction via hand or stylus. This facilitates efficient lectures, as notes can be saved as PDFs and shared with students for review. UniKL BMI also features a dedicated Problem-Based Learning (PBL) room, with each table equipped with a monitor and microphone to support hybrid learning activities.
The benchmarking visit provided valuable insights and best practices, which the team hopes to adapt and implement within budget constraints to transform UMPSA's lecture halls. The goal is to provide students with a learning environment that aligns with the rapid pace of technological advancement.
Author: Dr Muhammad Azrin bin Ahmad