The client
Federation University, with campuses across regional Victoria, Australia, has taken a very specific and deliberate approach to refitting its classrooms for hybrid learning. It’s an innovative approach that prioritises simplicity, reliability, and superior audio quality. At the centre of this transformation is the TeamConnect Ceiling 2 (TCC2), Sennheiser’s advanced microphone array solution that ensures crystal-clear communication for both in-class and remote participants.
The challenge
Federation University faced a significant challenge: providing a seamless hybrid learning experience for students in both regional and remote areas. Amit Suyan, AV Team Leader at Federation University, explained, “We were looking for a system that delivers a superior learning experience for both in-class and remote participants. The solution had to be easy to use, reliable, and offer excellent audio quality. It was essential to implement a system that required minimal interaction from academics while maintaining a professional-grade performance.”
The solution
The university’s Connected Classroom solution combines cutting-edge audio and video technology to create an immersive learning environment. At the core of this system is the Sennheiser TeamConnect Ceiling 2 microphone. “The TCC2 met all our requirements,” said Amit. “It provides exceptional voice lift, clear audio for remote participants, and integrates seamlessly with our chosen DSP (Q-SYS), Control (Crestron) and video solutions (Crestron NVX).”
Each Connected Classroom features:
- Two TCC2 microphones per room: One dedicated to the presenter area for precise audio tracking and one for the audience area.
- Integration with Microsoft Teams Rooms: Enabling effortless video conferencing with exceptional audio clarity.
- Crestron video transmission and Q-SYS DSP systems: Ensuring robust performance and compatibility.
- Automated setup: Lights, screens, and audio adjust automatically upon entry, reducing setup time for academics.
With more than 45 Connected Classrooms now operational, Federation University has achieved remarkable efficiency in deploying these systems. Amit shared, “We’ve refined the process to commission a room in just 1.5 days. This rapid deployment ensures minimal disruption and allows us to scale quickly.”
The installation process was streamlined thanks to Sennheiser’s robust support. “The team at Sennheiser provided invaluable assistance,” Amit noted. “From early-stage design guidance to troubleshooting during implementation, their expertise ensured our systems were production-ready.”
The result
The impact of the Connected Classroom has been profound. Academics benefit from a hassle-free setup, walking into rooms that automatically prepare for teaching. Students, whether in-person or remote, experience unparalleled audio clarity.
“The Sennheiser TCC 2 microphones are truly a ‘set and forget’ solution,” said Amit. “They’re reliable, easy to install, and deliver phenomenal performance. Feedback from users has been overwhelmingly positive, with many commenting on how seamless and effective the system is.”
Amit offered valuable advice for institutions looking to implement similar solutions. “Design with the end user in mind. Technology should enhance the learning experience without adding complexity. A good design minimises the effort required from users, even if the technology behind it is complex.”
Conclusion
Federation University’s Connected Classroom template, powered by Sennheiser’s TeamConnect Ceiling 2, provides real-world inspiration for other higher education AV departments everywhere. By focusing on user-friendly design, robust technology, and seamless integration, the university has created a flexible, accessible, and high-quality learning experience that meets the needs of modern education.
