Prairie View A & M University (PVAMU)

Year One Report Summary

Objective

To establish a NASA Southwest Regional Network Resources and Training Site to serve PVAMU and its collaborators in southeast Texas, Louisiana, New Mexico and Oklahoma. Through the efforts of this NRTS, a high speed digital network consisting of data and video channels linking a series of remote sites will be developed resulting in the creation of a virtual University for sharing of resources by all participants in the project as well as a larger adult community in this region.

Technological Accomplishments for Year 3

A state-of-the-art Distance Learning Classroom was opened at PVAMU in Year 3. the Laboratory utilizes a Vtel Mediamax System which was provided by the University. Port B of this videoconferencing equipment is used to attach to the video segment of the Texas VidNet Network. The other port maintains a direct connection to the Trans Texas Video Network (TTVN). The PVAMU network has been designsted as the North Star Telecommunications network. It has both Video and Data capabilities as well as access to satellite transmissions and the University CampusCable System. This network has the capability to be expanded to include voice communications. The NRTS Training Laboratory has been upgraded to include full video conferencing capability through a Vtel MediaMax System. It is now possible to broadcast all training sessions to any NRTS site. The Laboratory was designed and constructed by the Construction Division. the VC Wizard conference control software has been upgraded and used to set up multi-point conferences utilizing the Madge 200 Switch. This switch currently houses an eight port Mcu. It is a goal to conduct a multi-point conference among all NRTS sites. Also Distance Learning Classrooms were installed at the Drew Middle School, Texas Southern University, TADC Headquarters in Dallas and the Cooperative Agriculture research Center at PVAMU. The PVAMU has established a network of H.323 sites on campus which permits transport of video and audio over ip-based networks.

Programmatic Impacts for Year 3

A major training workshop for Texas partners was held in July, 1998 at PVAMU. The one-week residential workshop focused on basic videoconferencing technology, web-based course delivery and building a server to support the workshop. The workshop initiated an effort to establish a close collaboration with all of the Texas HBCUs to work toward increasing the number of science, mathematics and technology teachers available for employment in the public schools. Eighteen faculty members and students built seven Pentium 200 based NT servers to run the WebCT package at their school. The current goal is to get each of the schools to collaborate on development of a EXCET Review Website. The EXCET exam is a state-mandated exam given to all candidates for a teaching certificate in the state ofTexas. Training activities have been conducted by partner institutions. These sessions have focused on such topics as Desktop Publishing, PowerPoint Presentations, Electronic Gradebook Navigating the Internet, Introduction to Hardware. These activities have involved over 200 faculty, 2000 students, 50 staff persons and 40 parents.

Technological Plans for Year 4

Provide support to other NRTS sites in design and installation of videoconferencing systems. Also create a testbed for demonstration of H.323 to H.320 connectivity. If this connectivity can be established, it will be possible for increased collaboration between desktop systems and room systems.

Programmatic Impact for Year 4

The investments above prepares these institutions for the necessary collaborations to accomplish the goals of the MUSPIN Project. Additionally, the technological/multidisciplinary workshops of the PVAMU/NRTS for FY99 will be broadcast over the network to provide the latest training in technology and science education curriculum development. With the implementation of video conferencing capabilities at the other MUSPIN NRTS, sharing of workshops with other NRTS will be possible.

Year 1 Milestones and Deliverables Status

Fully successful.

Issues/Concerns

• PVAMU will need to expand its staff and complexity of management to accomodate the logistical needs and technological mentoring needs of a consortium this large. Available funding level seems insufficient.