New Study Released: AV Use in Higher Education Growing

New classrooms, collaborative education methods, drive demand

SOURCE: By InfoComm International® - POSTED: 11/16/05

FAIRFAX, Va. — A new study suggests that in the next five years, half of all higher education classrooms will be equipped with AV technology. The number of classrooms with audio visual equipment has doubled every year for the past five years, and is expected to continue to double annually through 2010.

The study, AV Technology in Higher Education, was conducted by Acclaro Growth Partners, an independent strategic research firm, on behalf of InfoComm International, the international trade association representing the professionalaudiovisual industry.

The study finds that 75% of the demand for AV equipment in higher education is the result of construction of new classrooms. The total number of higher education students in the United States is expected to peak in 2008, resulting in an increase in construction of new facilities. Technology is being integrated in the new classrooms, reflecting changes in education methods, including the increased use of collaborative techniques and project-based assignments. AV is also being used to attract increasingly tech-savvy students, and to accommodate distance learning programs, which expand both the reach and revenues of higher education institutions.

"We are pleased to see the higher education community embracing AV technology," said Randal A. Lemke, Ph.D., Executive Director of InfoComm International. "It is encouraging to see colleges and universities looking at AV as a long-term investment that is enhancing the quality of education, while reducing its cost, eliminating academic bottlenecks, and assisting recruitment efforts."

AV Technology in Higher Education examines the use of AV in higher education by geographical region and by type of institution. The study explains the educational, financial and technological benefits realized by higher education institutions using AV technology. Copies can be purchased at www.infocomm.org. Educators wishing to learn more about the educational applications of AV technology are encouraged to attend InfoComm 06, the largest annual conference and exhibition for AV buyers and sellers worldwide. The show will be held from June 3-9, 2006, in Orlando, Florida.