Classroom Monitoring

[Gongalong]

Hi folks,

 

I've had a request for a classroom monitoring solution.

 

Essentially one or more teachers would monitor a class in progress from another room, and provide prompts to the the teacher via something discreet e.g. in-ear headphone. The idea is the monitoring teacher(s) would not intrude on the room, to get a realistic view of how the class is going.

 

I can think of doing this cheaply via Skype, perhaps using a "manycam" solution to bring together two webcams, and Bluetooth headphones for the teacher.

 

Are there commercial solutions for this (I'm guessing there are £manythousand conferencing solutions), or an alternative idea?

 

Thanks

[woody]

We have Star Lesson for that sort of thing although there doesn't appear to be a live 'in-ear' feedback. Lessons can be recorded or observed live. Its a bit clunky in areas but gets the job done and is cheaper than competitors. Still expect to pay £manythousand (in your own words).

 

I think if you can make the skype thing work that would be best - but expect to have to set it up yourself each time someone wants to use it!

[Gongalong]

Thanks @woody.

 

I've found another system called Lessonbox. I'm also asking Polycom what video conf equipment costs are, just as a comparison.

 

It's looking like a base system's going to cost between £5-10k.