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By Asia Education Review Team , Tuesday, 06 February 2024

UTM and Cisco are reshaping the learning experience through smart classrooms

  • Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has extended its collaboration with Cisco to introduce a new phase of hybrid learning for its students through Cisco's Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) program in Malaysia. In line with this effort, six initial classrooms at UTM have undergone a transformation into advanced smart classrooms, integrating Cisco's collaboration tools and secure connectivity technologies to elevate the overall learning environment for students, faculty, researchers, and administrative staff.

    In an announcement, the technology leader emphasized that the future of education embraces a hybrid model, incorporating a dynamic mix of virtual and in-person learning opportunities to empower students with a flexible learning journey from any location. Leveraging their decade-long collaboration focused on equipping students with pertinent technical skills and industry exposure through the Cisco Networking Academy a longstanding IT-skills-to-jobs initiative globally UTM and Cisco have collaborated to redefine the design, deployment, and management of learning environments and meeting spaces on campuses. With Atek Technology leading the technology installation, Cisco has supplied a comprehensive array of purpose-built, AI-powered collaboration tools, and connectivity solutions to facilitate compelling hybrid learning experiences. This includes Cisco Roomkit, Webex Smart Boards, Switches, LED TV, and cameras.

    Cisco states that the collaboration aligns with UTM's enVision 2025, which advocates for hybrid and adaptable learning approaches. The partnership facilitates the creation of digital content, including Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) and Microcredential modules, supporting the integration of blended learning and enabling the delivery of academic programs entirely through Open and Distance Learning. The provided facilities play a crucial role in expediting these advancements, contributing to the realization of UTM's vision.