The Queensland Virtual Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Academy (QVSA) online programs connect students in real time using an innovative video conferencing application called
iSee.
iSee
In order for a student to participate in video conferencing, 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 USB stereo headsets with microphone for each student
- access to the Department of Education (DoE) network using an Education Queensland identification and password and an associated email address
- access to local school ICT support may be required in initial set up phase.
Hardware and software
In order to effectively participate in a QVSA 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 7 with 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
All Department of Education computers have a department only version of iSee already installed. A link will be provided to students who bring their own devices or access courses outside of departmental schools upon registration.
Students may wish to seek the assistance of their local ICT support in this process.
Firefox or Chrome is the preferred browser.
Internet access
Much of the technology and software required to participate in the QVSA, such as multipoint video conferencing provided through iSee requires high-speed connectivity to be effective and engaging.
iSee works best if your school or access point for the QVSA has:
- ADSL connectivity or higher
- a reliable internet connection and signal strength
- a small number of concurrent high bandwidth users. For example in addition to the number of students connected to the QVSA 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.
Head set and camera
Each student needs access to an individual webcam to record themselves as part of the QVSA programs so that other students may see their face and the QVSA teachers can collaborate with them similar to a live face to face classroom. Many laptops and computers contain a built-in camera which is useful 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 direction microphones it is recommended to space out 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.
For further support or advice please refer to the support and resources tab.