Czech Republic Embraces "Smart" Classrooms

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The arrival of "smart" classrooms at several universities in Czech Republic is revolutionizing the way health management is taught there. Through the Bohemia-Nevada partnership, classrooms equipped with Internet access and the latest in video and audio technology have been installed at South Bohemia University in Jindrichuv Hradec; the University of Education in Hradec Kralove; and the Prague School of Public Health/Postgraduate Medical School.

The equipment, including computers, LCD projectors, videodisc players and videocassette recorders (VCRs), is allowing faculty to expand options for distance learning and explore possibilities for teaching students in remote locations across Czech Republic.

"Smart classrooms bring several enhancements to traditional educational settings," said Mary Paterson, PhD, director, Office of Health Care Policy Research, University of Nevada School of Medicine. "First, the resources of the Internet can be brought to the classroom, and students can learn how to use and evaluate health data and information on the Internet. Second, faculty from other universities can provide lecture outlines, overheads, and other materials to students at distant locations."

"Both of these enhancements extend the reach and improve the efficiency of the faculty member in the classroom," she said. "Where expert faculty are scarce, the smart classroom can maximize student access to expert faculty."

Smart classrooms are also planned for health management education partner institutions in Olomouc, Czech Republic and in Slovakia.

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