The Global Tropics Future Young Scholars virtual programs connect students in real time using an innovative video conferencing application called iSee VC.
In order for a student to participate they will need to have access to the following information technology specifications and conditions:
- individual student devices, either laptops or desktop computer
- individual webcam and stereo headsets with microphone for each student
- access to the Department of Education network using an EQ ID and password and an EQ email address
- access to a local school ICT support may be required in initial set up phase.
Hardware and software
In order to effectively participate in a Global Tropics Future virtual program, each registered student will need access to an individual laptop (preferred) or desktop computer.
Minimum (recommended) CPU requirements
- Dual core intel or equivalent AMD CPU
- 4GB RAM
- Windows or Mac OSX operating system
- Windows 7with SP1 or later, Windows 8, Windows 10 .Mac OS X Mountain Lion (10.8) or later
- Dedicated Direct X 10 compliant GPU with at least 256MB Video RAM
Software
Students will need to download and install the iSee video conferencing application. A link will be provided upon registration for a Global Tropics Future program.
Students may wish to seek the assistance of their local ICT support in this process.
iSee recommend Firefox as their preferred browser.
Internet access
Much of the technology and software required to participate in Global Tropics Future Young Scholars, such as multipoint video conferencing provided through iSee requires high-speed connectivity to be effective and engaging.
Global Tropics Future Young Scholars works best if your school or access point for Global Tropics Future has:
- ADSL connectivity or higher
- a reliable internet connection and signal strength reliable internet connection and signal strength
- a small number of concurrent high bandwidth users. i.e. in addition to the number of students connected to the Global Tropics Future program, there is only a limited demand on high speed bandwidth across the school network
- generally wired connections work best, rather than Wi-Fi access.
Headset and camera
Each student needs access to an individual webcam to record themselves as part of the Global Tropics Future programs so that other Global Tropics Future Young Scholars may see their face and the Global Tropics Future teachers can collaborate with them similar to a live face to face classroom. Many laptops and computers contain a built-in camera which is great for this purpose.
To get the best audio experience from the virtual classroom a USB headset with directional microphone is required. Earbud speakers with microphone capability (for example iPod headphones or phone hands free kits) significantly limit the experience.
Minimising audio echo in the iSee environment
If students using iSee are located in the same room extra care must be taken to avoid audio echo. If students are located in the same room it is essential that stereo headsets with directional microphones are used. Even with directional microphones it is recommended to space users as much as possible to avoid a remote user hearing a user audio though multiple avatars located in the same room. Array microphones (standard in laptops) and speakers must not be used when users are located in the same physical room.