Logitech and Zoom Transform Optometric Pedagogy at UC Berkeley's Emeryville Clinic
A case study on leveraging modern technology for enhanced hybrid learning experiences.
Background
The Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry & Vision Science at the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) aimed to streamline its transition to hyflex learning and establish a sustainable hybrid educational model that ensured equitable access for all students. The development of a new clinic, scheduled for mid-2026, presented a unique opportunity to redefine medical facilities with state-of-the-art audiovisual systems utilizing cloud-based platforms like Zoom. By integrating this technology with Logitech's video conferencing solutions, the school achieved a highly efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional audiovisual implementations, enabling more powerful features and improving the overall learning experience.
Institution: Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of California, Berkeley, Emeryville Clinic
Founded: 1868
Sector: Higher Education
Solutions: 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
UC Berkeley's School of Optometry & Vision Science sought to modernize its optometry training by transitioning from costly and outdated audiovisual systems to reliable platforms like Zoom and Logitech. Traditional audiovisual systems were not only expensive to install and maintain but also lacked the flexibility to adapt to evolving educational needs. Conversely, cloud-based solutions offered a cost-effective, scalable, and adaptable alternative, creating dynamic hybrid learning environments.
Key limitations in the existing infrastructure during the initial project phase included:
- High Implementation and Maintenance Costs: Traditional systems required significant investment for implementation and upkeep, posing a challenge during a period of budget constraints and limited resources.
- Lack of Flexibility: Legacy configurations could not accommodate the diverse needs of in-person, remote, and hybrid learning, particularly in medical training where seamless transitions and adaptable demonstrations are crucial.
- Barriers to Collaboration: Remote and hyflex learners struggled to participate effectively, hindering their engagement in patient simulations, live demonstrations, and interactive clinical training.
In response to these challenges, UC Berkeley's School of Optometry & Vision Science launched an initiative to radically transform this future learning space, prioritizing low-cost, highly scalable solutions adaptable to present and future needs.
The Solution
To address these obstacles, Matthieu Kaminski, Director of Virtual Learning Initiatives at UC Berkeley's Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry & Vision Science, turned to Logitech and Zoom. He needed tools that could meet the demands of modern optometric training while delivering immediate results.
Kaminski is currently implementing over 40 Zoom Rooms to create flexible spaces for teaching and treatment. These configurations support hybrid teaching, immersive learning, and the integration of telehealth, enhancing both in-person and remote learning experiences. The solution includes:
- Logitech Rally Bar Mini: Known for its ease of use and ability to foster dynamic collaboration. The video bars offer clarity in audio and video, creating engaging environments for live medical simulations and telehealth workshops.
- Logitech Rally Camera Streamline Kit: Designed for exam rooms, collaboration spaces, and small to medium-sized classrooms. The kit integrates with Logitech Sync for device and room management, simplifying remote diagnostics and troubleshooting.
- Logitech Tap IP: Simplifies navigation and provides intuitive controls for instructors.
- Zoom Capabilities Compliant with HIPAA: Enables virtual health assessments, allowing students and faculty to combine training sessions with real-world case studies.
“Logitech and Zoom provided us with pre-configured solutions that allowed us to create engaging and scalable learning environments practically overnight. In times of uncertainty, their reliability is priceless.” - Matthieu Kaminski
Results
The shift to cloud-based systems ensures scalability, enhances user experience, and provides broader access to educational offerings, including telehealth. The success of this transformation serves as an inspiration for other institutions to adopt similar cloud-based audiovisual solutions that enable equitable, future-ready learning environments. Key transformative elements include:
- Scalable Infrastructure: With Zoom Rooms and Logitech systems, UC Berkeley's School of Optometry expanded its hybrid education capacity at minimal cost, ensuring long-term sustainability.
- Enhanced Collaboration and Inclusion: The technology solutions enabled in-person and remote learners to have the same reference points, helping student communities connect more deeply with course materials.
- Cost Savings and Efficiency: Unlike traditional systems, Logitech technology minimized routine maintenance, significantly reducing operational costs.
- Broader Access: Remote learning capabilities allowed students from underserved regions to participate in top-tier medical education programs, reinforcing inclusion.
Berkeley's successful initiative has created a model for institutions worldwide. Through scalable tools like Logitech and Zoom, the clinic will demonstrate how modern audiovisual systems can replace outdated infrastructure to deliver flexible, cost-effective, and engaging learning environments.
“This journey underscores the importance of collaboration and adaptability. We are excited to build on this success and inspire others for the future.” - Matthieu Kaminski
