Media Lab & AVoIP – Technology that enables teaching

Why Technical Development Matters

Digitalization is transforming the way we teach and learn. Hybrid teaching formats and digital collaboration are becoming increasingly important, but they depend on the right infrastructure. Technology in teaching and learning spaces should be easy to use, low-maintenance, scalable, and future-proof.

Traditional solutions with classic AV installations—relying on cables and local network switches—are reaching their limits. To respond flexibly and efficiently to technological advancements, we are adopting a modern, network-based approach: Audio-Visual over IP (AVoIP). This allows for easier modification, adaptation, and scaling of teaching spaces without complex renovations.

The success of this transformation requires a shift in planning, technology, and organization. The “Lab for Hybrid Learning Spaces” is dedicated to addressing exactly this challenge: testing and evaluating new technical solutions for the future of education.

What We Do

As part of the project, a Media Lab was established at the Regional Computing Center (RRZ) — a test environment comparable to a small seminar room. Here, the departments of the Media Competence Center (MCC) and Communication Networks (NET), together with the Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences (MIN), collaborate on technical solutions for future teaching.

UHH/Nagel

In the Media Lab, components such as interactive displays, cameras, microphones, and control systems are tested — all interconnected and based on AVoIP technology. This means audio and video signals are transmitted wirelessly and securely via the university network. This technology allows for flexible integration of devices and quick adaptation to new technical opportunities.

Naturally, this new technology also presents challenges, such as compatibility with existing network infrastructure and scalability across multiple rooms at various University of Hamburg locations.

During testing, we explore questions like:

• Which components operate reliably over the network?
• How intuitive are the control and user interfaces?
• Which solutions require minimal maintenance and are compatible with the university’s infrastructure?

How We Make an Impact

Our goal is to conceptualize media control in teaching spaces as a central, network-based infrastructure — not just equipment installed after the fact. To achieve this, we strategically connect the network infrastructure with media technology. This close collaboration between MCC and NET lays the foundation for scalable standards, which will especially be implemented in new building projects.

Based on the needs of our educators, we develop modular, scalable, and future-proof technology packages for different types of rooms. We test these prototypes in pilot spaces and in active teaching settings. The most effective solutions are standardized and form the basis for a consistent, needs-based equipment framework for our teaching spaces — supporting modern, flexible, and sustainable learning at the University of Hamburg.