Logitech and Zoom Transform Optometry Education at UC Berkeley's Emeryville Clinic
Leveraging technology to create a state-of-the-art learning environment.
Introduction
The Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry and Vision Science at the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) aimed to transition to a hyflex learning model and establish a sustainable hybrid teaching environment. The opening of a new clinic in mid-2026 provided an opportunity to redefine medical facilities with advanced audiovisual systems powered by cloud platforms like Zoom. By integrating cloud technology with Logitech's video conferencing solutions, the school found a cost-effective and efficient alternative to traditional audiovisual deployments, enhancing the overall learning experience.
"This transformation proves that modern technology solutions streamline operations without compromising quality, opening new perspectives for collaboration and equitable participation." - Matthieu Kaminski, Program Director
The Challenge
UC Berkeley's School of Optometry and Vision Science sought to modernize its optometry education by replacing costly audiovisual systems with reliable platforms like Zoom and Logitech. Traditional audiovisual systems were expensive to deploy and maintain, lacking the flexibility to adapt to evolving educational needs. Cloud-based solutions offered a cost-effective, scalable alternative for creating dynamic hybrid learning environments.
The initial project definition phase identified several key infrastructure limitations:
- High deployment and maintenance costs: Traditional systems required significant investment, posing challenges amid budget constraints and limited resources.
- Lack of flexibility: Existing configurations struggled to accommodate diverse teaching scenarios (in-person, remote, hybrid), particularly in medical education where seamless transitions and adaptable demonstrations are crucial.
- Collaboration barriers: Hyflex and remote learners faced difficulties engaging effectively, limiting their participation in simulations, live demonstrations, and interactive clinical training.
Faced with these challenges, UC Berkeley's School of Optometry and Vision Science launched an initiative to transform its future teaching space, prioritizing cost-effective and highly scalable solutions adaptable to current and future needs.
The Solution
To overcome these obstacles, Matthieu Kaminski, Program Director for the Bureau of Virtual Learning Initiatives at UC Berkeley's Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry and Vision Science, turned to Logitech and Zoom. He required tools capable of meeting the demands of modern optometry education while delivering immediate results.
"Logitech and Zoom provided us with turnkey solutions that allowed us to create engaging and scalable learning environments almost overnight. In this period of uncertainty, their reliability is invaluable." - Matthieu Kaminski
Mr. Kaminski is implementing over 40 Zoom Rooms to create flexible spaces for teaching and treatment. These configurations support hybrid learning, immersive learning, and potential telemedicine integration for enhanced in-person and remote learning experiences. The solution includes:
- Logitech Rally Bar Mini: Known for its ease of use and ability to facilitate dynamic collaboration. Its excellent audio and video clarity create engaging environments for live medical simulations and telemedicine workshops.
- Logitech Rally Camera Streamline Kit: Designed for exam rooms, collaboration spaces, and small to medium-sized classrooms. It integrates with Logitech Sync for device and space management, enabling remote diagnostics and troubleshooting.
- Logitech Tap IP: Simplifies navigation and provides intuitive controls for educators.
- HIPAA-compliant Zoom features: Enable virtual health assessments, allowing students and educators to combine training sessions with practical applications.
The Results
Transitioning to cloud-based systems ensures scalability, enhances user experience, and expands access to educational offerings, including telemedicine. The success of this transformation inspires other institutions to adopt similar cloud audiovisual solutions, providing equitable and sustainable learning environments.
Key highlights of this transformation include:
- Scalable Infrastructure: With Zoom Rooms and Logitech systems, UC Berkeley's optometry school expanded its hybrid teaching capabilities cost-effectively, ensuring long-term viability.
- Enhanced Collaboration and Inclusivity: Leveraging technology standardized the learning framework for in-person and remote learners, improving content engagement.
- Cost and Efficiency Savings: Logitech technology minimized ongoing maintenance compared to traditional systems, significantly reducing operational costs.
- Expanded Access: Remote learning capabilities enabled students from underserved regions to access high-level medical education programs, improving inclusivity.
Berkeley's initiative serves as a model for institutions worldwide. Through scalable tools like Logitech and Zoom, the school's Emeryville Clinic demonstrates how modern audiovisual systems can replace outdated infrastructure, offering flexible, cost-effective, and engaging learning environments.
"This journey highlights the importance of collaboration and adaptability. We look forward to continuing this momentum and inspiring other institutions." - Matthieu Kaminski
