Transforming Vestland Fylkeskommune Upper Secondary Schools

In the Vestland region of Norway, the integration of technology in education is advancing rapidly. Central to this transformation in the region’s upper secondary schools are WolfVision's Cynap systems, which provide versatile and robust classroom AV solutions. This case study explores the implementation and benefits of Cynap systems across approximately 45 schools, highlighting how they enhance the educational experience for both students and educators.

The primary requirement was a wireless screen-sharing solution that supported laptops, smartphones, and tablets of all types. Given that students and teachers use their own devices, an inclusive solution was necessary to enable everyone to connect wirelessly and share content on a central screen. Additionally, there was a need to minimize the number of installed AV components for ease of operation and reduced maintenance tasks. Remote management capabilities and the ability to delegate maintenance tasks to local administrators while retaining centralized control were also crucial.

WolfVision's Cynap systems met these requirements perfectly. With over 700 units installed, these systems offer standalone wireless presentation capabilities, support for interactive screens, and remote management from a central location. The variety of Cynap models—Cynap Pro, Cynap Core Pro, Cynap Pure, and others—cater to different classroom needs, ensuring a consistent user experience for both students and teachers, regardless of the device model in use.

Compatibility with the existing network infrastructure in Vestland schools was a significant factor in choosing Cynap systems. The wireless screen sharing operates on a wireless network, while device management is implemented using a separate wired network. Cynap systems support all major screen mirroring protocols (AirPlay, Miracast, and Google Cast), enabling screen sharing without the need for dongles, apps, or additional software.

Bjarte Johansen, Section ICT Consultant for Vestland Fylkeskommune, emphasized the simplicity and efficiency of Cynap systems: “We want as few components as possible in the classroom, and the Cynap enables us to provide multi-functional capability using a single box. It gives us everything we need in the classroom.”

The Cynap Pro models feature two HDMI Out ports, ideal for classrooms with twin display screens. Cynap Pro or Cynap Core Pro models are most often deployed. This is because they offer an HDMI In port as a fallback solution enabling a wired connection to be made on occasions when wireless connection is not possible.

While wireless screen sharing is the primary feature used, Johansen noted the popularity of the internal web browser during classes for showing YouTube videos or checking websites. Collaborative options are further enhanced by the Microsoft 365 integration.

The deployment of Cynap systems across Vestland’s schools has transformed educational delivery, offering several key benefits:

Ease of Use: Students can effortlessly connect any laptop, smartphone, or tablet PC, enhancing interactive learning without the need for formal training.

Remote Management: The vSolution Link Pro software enables central management of all devices, simplifying updates and scheduling. IT personnel at each school can manage local configurations while providing central oversight for senior administrators.

Peripheral Device Control: This feature ensures easy management of projectors and other classroom devices, reducing the need for additional room control systems. For example, administrators can set schedules to turn off all in-classroom AV equipment at the end of the day.

Consistency Across Models: Regardless of the specific Cynap model installed, the user interface remains consistent, ensuring a stable and predictable user experience.

Wireless Connectivity: The implementation of wireless screen sharing and the absence of dongles streamline classroom setup and reduce clutter.

Comprehensive, reliable, scalable

WolfVision's Cynap systems provide Vestland's upper secondary schools with a comprehensive, reliable, and scalable AV technology solution. The systems' seamless integration with existing infrastructure, support for a broad range of devices, and simplified management tools exemplify modern educational technology at its best. Since the first installations in 2016, the systems have proven to be extremely durable, offering a good return on investment over time.

As Vestland continues to embrace digital transformation in education, WolfVision remains a key partner, demonstrating the power of technology to enrich learning environments and outcomes.