As part of the preparations for hybrid teaching in WCU classrooms, additional audio connectivity was installed to allow for the use of a personal microphone, as well as to assist in the use of common software tools using the classroom audio system. Below are a few videos demonstrating the use of these new options and discussing some of the best practices that go along with their use.

Watch the videos which demonstrate the use of these new options and discuss some of the best practices that go along with their use.

Voice Reinforcement Options

WCU Classrooms have had voice reinforcement in them for awhile now. The voice reinforcement will allow your voice to be broadcast through the in-room speakers.

There are 2 microphone options for the classroom:

1.  Wireless Lapel Mic

Located on the instructor station in its charging dock.

To use:

  • Attach mic to your lapel.
  • Press the button on the front of the mic to unmute it.
  • When the red light on the top turns green, it is ready to use.
  • To mute it, press the button on the front again and wait for the light to turn red.
  • Return mic to it’s charging dock when you are done using it.

2.  XLR Microphone Connection

Located on a microphone stand in the front of the classroom.

To use:

  • Connect the XLR end of the mic to the XLR cable provided.
  • Make sure to line up the pins on the mic with the holes on the cable end.
  • Check for a switch or a button to turn on/unmute your microphone.
  • Press the sliver button on the XLR cable to remove your mic carefully you are done. 

Using the Audio Connections With the In-Room Computer

For Panopto and commonly used applications on campus:

How to check to see if right microphone is selected:

  • Under the audio settings for the individual program, select the “Microphone (USB Audio Device)”
  • Say a few words or sentences and watch the audio level indicator to confirm the levels are registering
  • Adjust the volume accordingly.

  • Move the volume slider right for louder and left for softer.
  • Remember: You should be able to adjust the volume at any time during a session without having to quit your session to start over. 

Using the Audio Connections With a Laptop

Important: Any laptop that does not have the a regular USB-A port, the user will need to have an adapter with them to use the classroom microphone with their laptop.

Connecting the Laptop

  • Connect either the XLR cable to your microphone or attach the wireless lapel microphone to your lapel.
  • Locate the USB cable on the instructor station labeled “Classroom Microphone” and connect it to your laptop.

Preparing the Software for the Audio

  • Open the software application you wish to use.
  • Open the audio settings for the application you have chosen.
  • Under the audio settings, make sure “Microphone (USB Audio Device)” is selected.
  • Say a few words or sentences and watch the audio level indicator to confirm the levels are registering.
  • Adjust the volume accordingly. Move the volume slider right for louder and left for softer.
  • Remember: You should be able to adjust the volume at any time during a session without having to quit your session to start over.