Schools and other Learning Institutions are implementing technology that helps them provide virtual learning and hybrid learning experiences. Meanwhile, new in-class AV technologies are creating more interactive and personalized learning opportunities. This means increasing construction projects that require the expertise of Low Voltage Cabling and AV Techs. The article dives into doors open to those who are interested in mastering infrastructure and AV skills.
In recent years, Low Voltage and AV (audio/visual) technicians have become increasingly important players in the field of education. Fueled by lessons learned during the pandemic, schools are adapting their campus architecture and expanding their technological capabilities. That includes building virtual classrooms and equipping labs with the latest hardware available. In 2021, The American School & University projected spending on AV and interactive technology to increase by nearly 17 percent.
Say Hello to Interactive Whiteboards
Low Voltage cable installers build the infrastructure to support schools in updating their technology. AV technicians ensure the equipment is installed properly so the students can get the most out of it. One such piece of equipment that has been making waves lately is the Promethean Board, a specific brand of interactive whiteboard.
This board allows teachers to create presentations and learning experiences with digital media. With modern education tools at their fingertips, teachers can adjust lessons to various learning styles. The interactive whiteboard provides students with more engaging learning material than what a traditional chalkboard or dry-erase marker board would offer; think polls, games, and short assessments. Multiple students can be up at the board writing simultaneously and collaborating on problems.
The newest “tetherless” interactive displays do away with the need for an overhead projector or connected computer. They include built-in apps that allow students to demonstrate their learning with fingers or specialized pens. The board can become a canvas to create concept maps or explore artifacts pertaining to lessons. The displays also give students a way to facilitate their own learning.
Existing Infrastructure and Older Building Installs
Installations that occur in buildings where a school is in session require extra flexibility. Often this means doing the job after the students go home for the day or the weekend. It requires someone sensitive to minimizing the construction disruption that goes with the territory of preparing an older building for wiring infrastructure. TJ Maynard, a Fieldlink recruiter, said, “If you are doing an install during the school semester, you’ve got to minimize the impact on the classroom. That may mean taking the last hour of the day to clean up the dust from the teacher’s desk and ensure everything is safely back in place.”
A Learning Mindset Goes with the Territory
To qualify for jobs, AV techs typically need a range of technical certifications. AVIXA is a hub for professional collaboration, information, and community and is the leading resource for AV standards, certification, training, market intelligence, and thought leadership. A good place to begin is by earning the Certified Technology Specialist (CTS) designation, according to Maynard. Maynard and his colleagues spend their days keeping tabs on available positions and finding career opportunities for candidates interested in Low Voltage and Telecom Infrastructure careers. Maynard has a particular passion for all things technology, “The AV field offers many opportunities to gain expertise in specific pieces of AV hardware or software. Techs can also build on the CTS by earning a specialized designation in design (CTS-D) or installation (CTS-I).”
“There’s no doubt that AV technology is changing how people communicate and experience the world,” Maynard said. “It’s an exciting career path with lots of options.”
What’s Ahead?
It’s anybody’s guess where a career as an AV tech could lead. Some futurists imagine augmented reality learning experiences, such as enabling students to visit scenes from Civil War battlefields or tour ancient archaeological sites. Others envision AI-driven analytics with personalized tracking of students’ progress and performance so that the student could receive suggestions on what to learn next or how to improve.
If you’re interested in exploring how to get started in this kind of work, reach out to Fieldlink. Fieldlink is a network infrastructure staffing services company helping people find rewarding careers in the Low Voltage and Telecom Industry.