To use the system, teachers simply plug in one USB connector, and they have access to a camera, external microphone and external speakers. “Training was very easy because you plug it in, and it just works,” says Vasile. “With Logitech you can never go wrong. The hardware is robust, and it’s thoughtfully designed and executed.”
The faculty agrees. “The technology is absolutely seamless,” says Robert Fantilli, who teaches math.“I really appreciate being able to see my students’ faces. I don’t get that when they’re in the classroom wearing masks. When students are online, we get to see each other face-to-face, and it adds a personal touch to the classroom,” he says.
Charter also appreciates being able to see his students. “With half the students at home and half being in the classroom, the setup with Logitech and Zoom enables me to engage students, entertain them, and empower them. It’s been pretty effective,” says Charter. “I can see those a-ha moments, and they’re pretty precious.”
The Logitech solution has also proven valuable outside of school hours. “The technology opens up a whole new world of possibilities and opportunities in terms of what programming could look like, extracurricular or co-curricular programs -- clubs and activities -- which are a big part of the school life here and take on a different role in a virtual world,” says Lianne Castelino, director of marketing and brand strategy for St. Michael’s College School.
While many schools were putting clubs and activities on hold during the pandemic, St. Michael’s students continued to participate in extracurricular activities. One student, for example, started a politics club and invited former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney to attend a virtual meeting, who accepted the invitation and participated virtually.
“Having the Logitech technology in the classrooms propels the school forward in many ways,” says Castelino. “This innovative technology speaks to the school’s strategy and a global vision of technology moving forward.”
