University of California, Berkeley, School of Optometry and Vision Science: Transformation of Optometric Training in the Emeryville Clinic with Logitech and Zoom

Overview

The Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry & Vision Science at the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley), a leading institution in optometric training and vision science, aimed to accelerate the transition to hyflex learning and implement a sustainable hybrid training model that provides equitable access for all students. The construction of a new clinic, slated for opening in mid-2026, presented a unique opportunity to redefine medical facilities with state-of-the-art AV systems supported by leading cloud-based platforms like Zoom. By leveraging cloud technology alongside Logitech's video conferencing solutions, the school was able to create not only a highly efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional AV deployments but also provide more powerful features that enhance the overall learning experience.

"This transformation will prove that modern technology solutions can optimize workflows and open new doors for collaboration and equitable participation without sacrificing quality." - Matthieu Kaminski, Program Director

About the School

School: UC Berkeley School of Optometry and Vision Science, Emeryville Clinic
Founded: 1868
Industry: Higher Education

Solutions Implemented

Logitech Rally Bar
Logitech Rally Streamline Kit
Logitech Tap IP
Logitech Scribe
Logitech Spotlight
Logitech Rally Mic Pods
Zoom® Rooms with HIPAA-compliant integrations

The Challenge

The School of Optometry & Vision Science at UC Berkeley sought to modernize its optometric training by transitioning from costly legacy AV systems to proven platforms like Zoom and Logitech. Traditional AV systems were not only expensive to deploy and maintain but also lacked the flexibility to adapt to evolving educational requirements. In contrast, cloud-based solutions offered a cost-effective, scalable, and adaptable alternative for creating dynamic hybrid learning environments.

During the initial project scope definition, several key limitations of the existing infrastructure became apparent:

High Deployment and Maintenance Costs: Implementing and maintaining traditional systems required significant investment, posing challenges during times of budget constraints and limited resources.
Lack of Flexibility: Legacy systems struggled to adapt to the diverse needs of in-person, remote, and hybrid learning scenarios, particularly crucial in medical education where seamless transitions and adaptable demonstrations are essential.
Barriers to Collaboration: Remote and hyflex learners faced difficulties engaging effectively, hindering their participation in patient simulations, live demonstrations, and interactive clinical training sessions.

In response to these challenges, the UC Berkeley School of Optometry & Vision Science launched an initiative to fundamentally transform its future learning spaces, prioritizing cost-effective, highly scalable solutions that could adapt to current and future needs.

The Solution

To overcome these obstacles, Matthieu Kaminski, Program Director for the Office of Virtual Learning Initiatives at the Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of California, Berkeley, turned to Logitech and Zoom. The need was for tools that could meet the demands of modern optometric education while delivering immediate results. Kaminski is currently implementing over 40 Zoom Rooms, creating flexible teaching and treatment spaces. These facilities support hybrid learning, immersive experiences, and the integration of telemedicine, thereby enhancing the learning experience for both in-person and remote students.

"Logitech and Zoom offered us turnkey solutions that allowed us to create engaging, scalable learning environments virtually overnight. In a time of uncertainty, their reliability is invaluable." - Matthieu Kaminski

Key Components of the Solution:

Logitech Rally Bar Mini: Known for its user-friendliness and ability to support dynamic collaboration, these video bars provide clear audio and video quality, creating engaging environments for live medical simulations and telemedicine workshops.
Logitech Rally Camera Streamline Kit: Designed for examination rooms, collaboration areas, and small to medium-sized classrooms, this kit integrates with Logitech Sync for device and room management, enabling remote diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Logitech Tap IP: This device simplifies navigation and offers intuitive controls for educators.
Zoom HIPAA-compliant features: These enable virtual health assessments, allowing students and faculty to combine training sessions with real-world applications.

Results

The transition to cloud-based systems ensures scalability, enhances the user experience, and broadens access to educational offerings, including telemedicine. The success of this transformation serves as an inspiration for other institutions seeking similar cloud-based AV solutions that offer equitable and future-proof learning environments. Key transformative highlights include:

Scalable Infrastructure: With Zoom Rooms and Logitech systems, UC Berkeley Optometry has expanded its capacity for hybrid training at minimal cost, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Enhanced Collaboration and Integration: Technology-driven solutions have created a level playing field for in-person and remote learners, helping students engage more deeply with course materials.
Cost Savings and Efficiency: Unlike traditional systems, Logitech's technology minimized routine maintenance, significantly reducing operational costs.
Broader Access: The ability for remote study allowed students from underserved regions to participate in world-class medical training programs, promoting inclusivity.

The success of the Berkeley initiative serves as a model for institutions worldwide. With scalable tools like Logitech and Zoom, the Emeryville Clinic demonstrates how modern AV systems can replace outdated infrastructure, providing flexible, cost-effective, and engaging learning environments.

"This journey underscores the importance of collaboration and adaptability. Looking ahead, we are excited to build on this success and inspire others." - Matthieu Kaminski

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