Video Distance Learning
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Networking Options (Click on the image to view it full-size.) |
Background
The development of the NJIN Video Classroom and other networking initiatives for video transmission was enabled through the cooperation and participation of several groups, including the Educational Activities Task Force (EATF) and the Video Resources Group (VRG), and the implementation of grant funds from the New Jersey Equipment Leasing Fund.Focusing specifically on developing video networks that would include NJIN member schools, the VRG has helped develop the infrastructure that makes it possible for NJIN members to establish interactive video links anywhere throughout the world. Initially, the VRG explored the possibility of rebuilding the New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority's microwave network as a means of creating a path for interactive video. However, the New Jersey telecommunications industry was able to offer transmission over fiber optics lines, offering an affordable but robust means of communication.
After examining the various proposals from the telecommunications industry, and weighing the amount of funds that were available through grant opportunities, specifically ELF's Emerging Needs Category, the VRG recommended to the NJIN Board that the grant submission to ELF propose constructing terminal facilities rather than building a network
There were five categories to NJIN's ELF proposal. Two categories focused on interactive video. The first video category was to provide each member institution with a robust interactive video classroom. The second category was to provide a Gateway facility to be shared by members for outside network service.
The video classroom was designed by volunteer members of the VRG. The NJIN Video Classroom boasts full interactive connectivity via all telecommunications service the industry can provide, including compression, cable television, full motion, and the Internet. The Gateway facility will provide satellite service.
The Video Resources Group continues to be a leader in New Jersey's higher education video networking initiatives. The VRG is currently pursuing three applications of their networking plan: Distance Learning, Conferencing, and a Statwide Educational Access channel.
NJIN Video Classroom
Representatives from NJIN member institutions served on a committee which designed the video classroom. The committee prepared specifications which were included in a request for proposal. In late 1995 Tele-Measurements was selected to supply the classroom components. The classrooms were installed on NJIN member college and university campuses in 1996.View a directory of the NJIN Video Classrooms.
Submit your institution's results through our Distance Education Directory Survey
CODECs Installed
View the NJIN member video classroom equipment by what type of CODEC they have.Interactive Television Networks
There are seven county-wide Interactive Television Networks (ITV) throughout the state. Six use Bell Atlantic service, and Mercer County utilizes Comcast for their transport. The six county-wide distance learning programs that deliver live, full-motion courses to students and teachers over fiber optic cable are Bergen, Morris, Hudson, Burlington, Union, and Somerset. Several other counties are planning to establish similar networks, with Middlesex and Essex leading the way. There is one tri-county project that links the vocational-technical schools in Warren, Morris, and Sussex.Interactive Distance Learning Service (IDLS)
In April of 1995, the Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) approved rates for Interactive Distance Learning Service (IDLS) within a county and region. This service, which comprises one transmit and three recieve audio/video paths, allows sites to interact, via scheduled sessions, with other IDLS sites either within their community of interest or within their Local Access Transport Area (LATA). The tarriff was filed with the NJBPU to serve the needs of educational institutions throughout the state. The offering is limited to public and private educational institutions, libraries, cultural institutions, and non-profit organizations using it for distance learning applications.View a list of New Jersey's IDLS subscribers and county contacts.
 
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Last Modified Friday, 18-Aug-2000 11:07:07 EDT |