Copyright M Live Michigan
JACKSON COUNTY, MI – Jackson College is celebrating the opening of two new technology-focused spaces designed to empower students and faculty with professional digital tools. The Jets Studio and Center for Innovation Sandbox, located in Bert Walker Hall on the Central Campus, will be unveiled during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 3, followed by tours of the facilities, according to a news release. Developed through the college’s Innovation 100 initiative, the new spaces address growing needs for accessible digital media production and collaborative learning environments. The Jets Studio in room 207 features a custom-built, one-button recording system developed specifically for Jackson College, allowing students, staff and faculty to create high-quality video and audio content independently. “Together, the Jets Studio and Sandbox technology upgrade blend creativity, technology and connection, giving students and faculty new tools to create, communicate and innovate,” said Jackson College President Daniel Phelan. “These tools are so important today. These projects underscore Jackson College’s commitment to student success, wherever and however learning takes place.” The studio includes three recording setups: a professional studio with Canon R6 Mark II camera, lighting, teleprompter, and microphones; a desktop setup with webcam and NVIDIA-assisted eye tracking; and a board setup featuring a 55-inch interactive teaching board. According to the college, faculty members wanted a way to record lectures and course introductions, while students needed space to complete multimedia assignments and develop communication skills. The project was led by Sonja Howell, instructional designer and developer at the college. The Sandbox in room 238 serves as the collaborative hub of the Center for Innovation, connecting in-person and online participants through integrated audio-visual technology. The space supports faculty in instructional design and innovation, particularly for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning initiative. Both facilities aim to enhance the learning experience for all students, including those in online and hybrid courses. Generative AI was used to draft this story, based on data provided by Jackson College. It was reviewed and edited by MLive The Jackson Citizen Patriot. Want more Jackson-area news? Bookmark the local Jackson news page.
