High Definition video support for natural interaction through distance learning

Using high definition video distance learning allows large areas of the classroom to be captured at a resolution approaching human visual acuity. This allows instructors and students to interact with significantly less constraints then the classic television based distance learning design. Hi Definition Television (HDTV) is becoming commonplace. This drives cost down, but more significantly it creates an increase in student expectation as HDTV replaces standard television in the home. Implementing a useful distance learning classroom based on HDTV requires significant attention to layout in order to achieve a pedagogically functional classroom, especially when applications beyond a simple lecture are considered. The classrooms considered here use two channel video in each direction, as well as stereo audio. This paper will discuss the issues in capturing an entire instructional area (whiteboard and podium) using multiple HD cameras. Careful attention to audio design is also critical to natural interaction.