The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) took a giant leap towards modernized learning with the official launch of its first Smart Classroom on November 30, 2023. This significant event marked the culmination of DALL's English Month celebration, which carried the theme "English as a Global Language, Building Cultures, and Connecting the World."
Dr. Ma. Theresa P. Loreto delivered the opening remarks, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Dr. Vanessa E. Gabunada, Dr. Ma. Theresa P. Loreto, and Dr. Kim Rachel Aure. The Smart Classroom initiative aims to enhance the teaching capabilities within CAS by providing increased internet bandwidth, improved ICT infrastructure, upgraded VSUEE technical specifications, and brand-new equipment. This includes a high-end multimedia PC set, a video and audio mixer, two cameras, and a brand-new sofa.
Mr. Norman Villas of ICTMC shared that these developments are "baby steps" towards VSU's integration of modern teaching methods. He emphasized the importance of technology in today's educational landscape and expressed his confidence that the Smart Classroom will be a valuable resource for CAS faculty and students.
The Smart Classroom is the first step towards the broader vision of procuring state-of-the-art equipment for multimedia development and professional broadcast for each college in the university. It will enable each college to broadcast its events or conduct blended classes, allowing for larger online meetings and educational watch parties. As emphasized in the orientation, all colleges and departments can use the new facilities. A written permission was issued by Mr. Jade Barachiel Bantasan, its caretaker.
Following the orientation, Dr. Gabunada addressed the attendees, expressing her excitement about the new facility. She called the Smart Classroom "another milestone for the department" and emphasized its potential to revolutionize the learning experience at CAS.
With the launch of this innovative space, VSU shows its commitment to providing its students with the latest technology and resources to succeed in an increasingly globalized world. The Smart Classroom is expected to enhance student engagement, improve learning outcomes, and prepare future graduates for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.