Narrative
We are seeking funding to enhance the instructional technology and infrastructure within our undergraduate teaching laboratories and classrooms.
The proposal comprises two primary components:
1) Acquisition of five 75-inch Smartboards for instructional and recording purposes, along with a digital camera and related lenses to record and distribute lab procedures for the online module.
2) Establishment of a maintenance and repair fund to support an estimated $1 million worth of laboratory equipment across four fundamental undergraduate laboratory courses.
Justification and Necessity
Installation of Vibe Smartboard (75" Plus)
Our department has over 25 Teaching Assistants (TAs) each semester, supporting more than 2,000 students in General Physics I and II. The Smartboard systems and recorded lab procedure will enable TAs to record, annotate, and share laboratory lectures and demonstrations, creating a reusable archive of instructional videos that ensures consistency across sections. This initiative supports FAU’s goal of using technology to enhance teaching quality, accessibility, and student success.
Laboratory Equipment Maintenance and Repair
The Physics Department manages laboratory equipment valued at over $1,000,000 across courses such as General Physics I and II, Modern Physics, and the Physical Electronics Laboratory.
The General Physics laboratories are designated Intellectual Foundations Program (IFP) courses and play a central role in achieving FAU’s undergraduate learning objectives. While these labs are essential to student success, current laboratory fees do not cover the cost of equipment repairs or replacements, creating a sustainability gap. We therefore request a 4% maintenance and repair budget for FY2026 to replace and service critical equipment. Regular upkeep ensures reliable tools, authentic experiments, and uninterrupted instruction—directly improving learning outcomes and safety.
Hardware Requirements
5 Vibe S1 Pro 75 inch
1 Sony Alpha 7R IV Full Frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera w/High Resolution 61MP Sensor, up to 10FPS with Continuous AF/AE Tracking
1 Sony Alpha FX3 | ILME-FX3A | Full-Frame Cinema Line Camera
1 Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II
Implementing Organization
Physics department, Florida Atlantic University
