In the dynamic landscape of education, the integration of audiovisual tools has become increasingly crucial for engaging students and enhancing learning experiences. As we look ahead to the upcoming school year, ensuring that K-12 institutions are equipped with the right AV resources is more important than ever. AVI Systems has decades of experience providing K-12 schools with the audiovisual solutions administrators and teachers need to enhance their daily work. With our team of design engineers, project managers and programmers, we can create the AV schools need when adding a new building, making upgrades to outdated technology, and completing AV overhauls in classrooms, flex spaces – even athletic facilities.
We have extensive experience redesigning and outfitting auditoriums, boardrooms, conference rooms, gymnasiums, field houses, press boxes, and much more with new technology and audiovisual equipment to improve and enhance the user experience in the space, meeting the customer’s needs and goals.
Here’s a closer look at what K-12 education needs in terms of audiovisual technology for the upcoming academic year.
Embracing Interactive Learning Environments
Modern classrooms are evolving into interactive learning environments where traditional teaching methods are complemented by AV technology. Interactive displays, such as smart boards allow educators to present content in engaging ways that capture students’ attention and encourage participation. These tools facilitate collaborative learning experiences where students can interact directly with digital content, fostering a deeper understanding of the material. 
For example, Lu Interactive Playground transforms your typical gym space into an immersive learning space and active environment where students are engaged physically, intellectually, and socially/emotionally. This cross-curriculum technology comes with a wide range of educational applications to engage kids, and their systems can be used for other purposes like meetings, assemblies, movie nights, plays, and much more. It comes with a high-definition laser projector, movement detection camera, sound and lighting system along with a starter kit of activity balls. There are many different funding sources that can help fund Lu – ESSER funds, 21st Century Grants, Title 1, any grant related to PE, technology, SEL or afterschool programs, etc.
Enhanced Connectivity and Integration
Robust connectivity is fundamental for the effective integration of AV technology in classrooms. High-speed internet access and reliable Wi-Fi networks enable real-time streaming of educational videos, virtual field trips, and guest lectures, enriching the curriculum with diverse learning resources. Additionally, AV systems should be seamlessly integrated with existing educational tools and platforms, such as learning management systems (LMS), to streamline content delivery and administrative tasks for educators.
Accessibility and Inclusivity Features
Creating an inclusive learning environment involves catering to the diverse needs of all students, including those with disabilities. AV technology can support accessibility features such as closed captions, audio descriptions, and adjustable display settings to accommodate students with hearing, visual, or cognitive impairments. By prioritizing inclusivity in AV solutions, schools ensure that every student can fully engage with educational content and participate in classroom activities.
Voice amplification is a powerful teaching tool. Voice amplification systems and classroom audio are very important in the classroom. Research and studies show when students hear better, they learn better. Voice amplification systems increase student engagement, improves focus, increases comprehension, and improves test scores.
AVI Systems partners with the top K12 education manufacturing partners and can assist with product evaluations and demonstrations to help make educated purchasing decisions. Some of these manufacturers have a larger product portfolio and offer additional solutions where their classroom audio solution can scale into their intercom, paging bells system, their school safety system, and classroom video systems.
Budgeting for Sustainability and Scalability
While investing in AV technology is crucial, schools must also consider long-term sustainability and scalability. Budgeting should account for not only the initial purchase and installation of AV equipment, but also ongoing maintenance, upgrades, and expansion as educational needs evolve. Schools can benefit from adopting scalable AV solutions that can grow alongside their student population and technological advancements without requiring frequent overhauls or replacements.
“As the number one global systems integrator, I see AVI Systems playing an even bigger role in the K12 education space. We are committed to becoming a strategic advisor to school districts, offering comprehensive solutions that evolve with their needs. I envision us expanding our services to the K12 space to include managed and consultative services, ensuring we meet the ever-changing demands of K12 education,” said Kathleen Santoria, Senior Account Manager.
As K-12 education continues to evolve, so too must our approach to integrating audiovisual technology into the learning environment. By prioritizing interactive learning environments, flexible remote learning solutions, connectivity, accessibility features, educator training, sustainable budgeting, and community engagement, schools can enhance the educational experience for all students. Investing in comprehensive AV solutions not only enriches classroom instruction but also equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a digitally connected world. As we prepare for the upcoming school year, let’s embrace the transformative potential of audiovisual technology in shaping the future of education.
©AVI Systems, Inc., 2024
