Introduction
Okayama Gakuin University upholds its founding educational philosophy, the "Three Educational Principles," while providing hands-on, community-focused learning. Last year, the university installed the VZ-2.UHD in a newly established problem-based learning (PBL) classroom. We spoke with them about their experience of using the VZ-2.UHD, a desktop fixed-position camera that introduces a concept not previously available in the classroom.
The power of high-resolution, sharply focused live images that keep students engaged
On a 98-inch large display, a continuous stream of handwritten equations unfolds without interruption. The image, as if being written live right in front of the viewer, creates a dynamic sense of presence that differs from traditional blackboard teaching. Mr. Komatsu, a lecturer in the Department of Food Management within the Faculty of Digital Life at Okayama Gakuin University, shares his thoughts:
"What impressed me most was the ultra-high image quality and the exceptional depth of field. I now use the VZ-2.UHD as a replacement for the blackboard, since its output is displayed on all the monitors in the room. It's also incredibly useful when giving feedback on student work - during quizzes or exercises, I can mark their submitted reports with a red pen and explain directly as I go. Even when my hand is visible holding the pen, the text on the page remains sharp and easy to read. There's no image blur whatsoever. Just a quick turn of the zoom dial and the focus adjusts instantly and automatically, so there’s no need to stop and fiddle with settings. It really helps maintain the flow of the lesson."
A tool for enhancing skills in business and interactive communication
Mr. Harada, Chair and President of Okayama Gakuin University / Okayama Junior College, shares the following:
"The VZ-2.UHD is not only an excellent alternative to traditional blackboard writing - it can also be used to display printed materials or magazine articles, making it ideal for discussion-based lessons focused on a single theme. In today’s environment, presentation skills are no longer just about delivering pre-prepared PowerPoint slides to an audience. There’s a growing need for interactive presentation skills, where speakers respond to feedback, answer questions, and adapt in real time. I believe the VZ-2.UHD is a highly effective tool for developing these kinds of business and interactive communication skills."
"By connecting the unit to a computer via USB, the image output can be saved as still images or video. Rotating the camera head allows not only downward but also forward and backward viewing, providing flexibility in what content can be captured. In other words, it can also function as a USB camera for remote teaching. The more we use it, the more we realise just how many possibilities this camera offers."
Remote management software
The VZ-2.UHD features a built-in network interface, allowing easy remote monitoring, control, and updates of multiple units using free management software.
With special thanks to Okayama Gakuin University / Okayama Junior College
Left: Okayama Gakuin University / Okayama Junior College
Chair and President
Mr. Toshitaka Harada
Right: Okayama Gakuin University
Faculty of Digital Life
Department of Food Management
Lecturer / Ph.D. (Science)
Mr. Masaomi Komatsu