In room-based video conferencing, students / academics / foreign presenters can remotely join a lecture that is being delivered in a physical class in real-time, using Zoom. Remote attendees will also be able to interact with the lecturer and students in the class.

Note that learning spaces are bookable through the Scheduling Office.

Learning Spaces Technology Support (LSTS) staff within IT Services are available for any support needed. One can schedule an appointment by either calling +356 2340 4112 option 2 during office hours or by filling out the AV support form [Intranet]. A support line is also open for emergencies during lectures. Each learning space has a specific support number to call, which is clearly displayed on the tutor's desk. When calling this number, staff closer to the venue will be able to respond as quickly as possible.

IT Services supports the following approaches to P+R (P = physical; R = remote) teaching:

A. Hybrid learning spaces

The University of Malta has several learning spaces equipped with technology that integrates with Zoom and supports P+R lectures. These learning spaces have been converted into a video conferencing room with the ability to host and join Zoom meetings.

These learning spaces are equipped with the following:

• cameras to capture the lecturer and the whiteboard;
• a control tablet on the instructor's desk;
• a wearable wireless lapel microphone that will be used by the lecturer so that students following the lecture remotely can hear the lecturer;
• speakers so that remote students can be heard by the lecturer and students in class; and
• an LCD screen to display the remote students.

Instructions about using these hybrid learning spaces for video conferencing and P+R teaching [PDF] are available.

B. Standard learning spaces

In learning spaces that are equipped with the minimum standard technology, i.e. a projector / LCD screen with an HDMI connection available to connect the user’s laptop, the lecturer may schedule a standard Zoom meeting and use their laptop to run the meeting in class.

• The lecturer schedules the Zoom meeting in the VLE [PDF] ahead of the teaching session.
• The lecturer connects their laptop to the projection / LCD facilities (usually via an HDMI cable) available in the learning space, as per usual.
• The lecturer should connect their laptop to the network cable available in the learning space for a more stable Internet connection.
• The lecturer starts the Zoom meeting in the VLE [PDF] and shares the presentation via Zoom [PDF]. The students in the class will follow the presentation on the projection screen / LCD, whilst the remote students will follow the presentation on Zoom.
• For remote students to hear the lecturer, the in-built microphone on the laptop may not be sufficient due to the ambient sound in the lecture room. A list of recommended devices to enhance the audio for Zoom client on laptops is available.