The integration of audiovisual technology in education has redefined teaching methods, providing tools that enhance understanding, interaction, and learning across disciplines. 

In particular, the education sector has seen significant progress with the implementation of simulators and technological resources that allow students to experience scenarios that are closer to real life. In this context, universities around the world are adopting innovative technologies to prepare students for future challenges. 

A standout example of this transformation in Latin America is the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Bogota, Colombia, which has expanded the use of AV technology in its medical and nursing simulation centers, achieving a significant improvement in the quality of hands-on learning. 

The Evolution of Javeriana University’s Simulation Center

Javeriana University identified a key need in its educational process: providing adequate training for students in critical areas such as medicine, nursing, and other health sciences. Dr. Leonard G. Aguiar, who was involved in the design and planning of the simulation center, explained that the primary goal was to offer high-quality training that closely replicates real-life healthcare scenarios.

"The university needed proper training for students in health-related fields. Although we already had a simulation center operating for around 20 years, new needs were identified regarding how to train students using AV tools to enhance the educational aspects of their learning," he explained. 

This transformation process was not immediate, as the university spent several years researching and planning the new center, drawing on the experience of multiple international simulation centers. With the collaboration of several partners, including the team led by Juan Carlos Gutiérrez from the Integración AV company, Javeriana designed a simulation center that not only met pedagogical needs but also incorporated cutting-edge technologies and was implemented in just three months.

"Today, it is proven that the more realistic the simulation center and training areas are to real environments, the easier and more structured the students’ learning process becomes," Aguiar emphasized, highlighting the positive impact of realistic simulations on student education. 

Technological Advances: The Role of Audiovisual Technology 

The simulation center not only improved its physical infrastructure but also incorporated a variety of AV and technological tools. Pedro Luis Pinto, the center’s biomedical engineer, explained that upgrading from an analog to a digital system has allowed students to interact more deeply with simulators and view their training in ways that were not possible before. "The students’ response has been very positive. Now they can record themselves and review their own simulations, which has greatly enhanced their learning.” 

The use of AV-over-IP technologies is another major advancement in this simulation center. Juan Carlos Gutiérrez highlighted the importance of implementing next-generation solutions in this project. "We used technologies such as Dante for audio over IP, video over IP, and RTSP streaming cameras, allowing students easy access to high-quality content without interruptions." The technology also includes projectors and monitors customized with the university’s branding, adding a sense of belonging and cohesion for both students and staff. 

Gabriela Fuentes, a student at the university, emphasized how the new simulation center has transformed the learning experience in her field. "The new simulation center allows us to have more timely and effective clinical practices, which is essential for our professional training." This type of technology allows students to face clinical situations in a controlled environment, promoting reflection on their performance and improving their skills in a safe and replicable setting. 

Training and Maintenance: A Continuous Process 

Training for technical staff, faculty, and students has been key to the success of this center. Ingrid Guerrero, automation and control coordinator at Javeriana University, noted that managing this advanced technology has been both a challenge and an opportunity to strengthen the services offered by the center. "Training the staff has been a gradual process, but we’ve managed to engage the entire team so they can get familiar with the tools and maximize their use." 

The university’s experience demonstrates that, beyond implementing technology, it is essential to ensure that all users, from technicians to students, feel comfortable and properly trained to use these resources effectively. 

Guidance and the Right Partners 

Javeriana University’s experience serves as a reference for other educational institutions seeking to incorporate advanced technology into their teaching processes. Ingrid Guerrero shared some advice: "It’s crucial to have strong guidance from qualified technology partners and to strengthen the knowledge of technical and academic staff so everyone can adapt to new tools." Preparation during the project’s design and execution phases, as well as continuous staff training, are key factors for the successful implementation of these technologies. 

Audiovisual technology has proven to be a powerful tool in education, especially in demanding fields such as medicine and healthcare. The Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Colombia, with its innovative simulation center, is a clear example of how the integration of advanced technologies can enhance student training, making it more realistic and interactive. By incorporating audiovisual simulation tools and state-of-the-art technologies, the university has not only improved the educational experience of its students but also set a model for other institutions in Latin America and around the world. 

AV technology in the education sector will take center stage during the first edition of InfoComm Latin America in Mexico City. Visit us and discover all the tools available on the market! 

This article was originally written in Spanish by AVIXA Español