--- Forwarded Message from Derek Roff <[log in to unmask]> --- >Date: Wed, 18 Apr 2001 14:26:39 -0600 >From: Derek Roff <[log in to unmask]> >To: LLTI-Editor <[log in to unmask]> >Subject: Re: #6073 Recessed Monitors? >In-Reply-To: <[log in to unmask]> I think the room lighting is a critical variable. We were not able to reduce glare to an acceptable level when we experimented with monitors-under-glass in our first computer lab. Changing the room lighting was not affordable in our case. We have multiple broad banks of fluorescent lighting. There are about 60 bulbs controlled by three switches. Every combination of the switches (except all off- there are no windows in the room) produced severe glare for some or most of the recessed screens. Screen hoods didn't help us. In the end, we put the monitors on the desks, which reduced glare to practically nothing. With 15" monitors, sight lines to the teacher are good. Another problem that we found while testing the mock-ups, was that monitors-under-glass required more space between the rows, in order to accomodate the student's knees and keep the back of the CRT under the desk top. Bigger monitors would complicate either arrangement. Our newer lab has the computers in a u-shape, with monitors against the walls. The student stations are 48" wide, which allows for pair work at one computer, now and then, and for very comfortable space for a single student. Everyone likes this lab better, as you might suppose. Derek >> From: "Read Gilgen" <[log in to unmask]> >> Subject: Recessed Monitors? > > ------------------ > Speaking of monitors below the desk level, what experience do you > all have with these? I've taught in a couple of labs around the > country where they have this type of arrangement. They have little > plastic hoods over the glass to avoid the glare of overhead lights. > I find students leaning over, peering into the glass at the > monitor. Thus their line of site is down, instead of more > naturally forward, able to catch the movement of the instructor or > easily glance at a projected image at the front. > > I guess I'm wondering if recessed monitors are such a good idea > after all? I'd be interested in feedback from those who have them > and have used them extensively, and can compare with traditional > monitor arrangements. > Derek Roff Language Learning Center, Ortega Hall Rm 129, University of New Mexico Albuquerque, NM 87131 505/277-7368 fax 505/277-3885 Internet: [log in to unmask]