Optimizer-Space Utilization Tool  

Analyzes course and room data to recommend efficient classroom assignments and improve space usage across campus.  

Academic scheduling optimization follows a structured term-based cycle. After the course data is established in Ellucian Banner, the 25Live room inventory and parameters are reviewed and prepared. The Optimizer is then run to assign courses to appropriate spaces, supporting efficient utilization and improving SUE scores in accordance with SACSCOC. Results are reviewed, refined, and finalized before scheduled publication. 

Pre-assignments in 25Live reserve specific classrooms for courses that require designated spaces or features, such as specialized instructional labs or classrooms. To ensure scheduling success, this information must be provided in advance, so appropriate spaces can be identified and secured before optimization. 

Room features and definitions are outlined below.

Instructional Environment Definitions

These definitions describe the types of instructional spaces available at Tarleton State University.

  • General Classroom — A standard classroom with integrated instructional technology, including presentation, audio, and interactive teaching tools.
  • Computer Lab — A shared computer classroom equipped with student workstations and instructional technology, including presentation, audio, and interactive teaching tools.
  • Specialized Classroom/Lab — A classroom designed and equipped to support instruction for specific courses or academic disciplines, with specialized furnishings, technology, or equipment beyond a standard general classroom.

Location Capability Definitions

These definitions describe the functional capabilities available in a space.

  • Web Conferencing — Supports live virtual meetings, allowing you to teach, present, and interact with both in-person and remote participants using video, audio, and screen sharing.

Note: Departments requesting a Specialized Classroom/Lab should provide a specific room number for assignment consideration.

Audio/Visual Feature Definitions

These definitions describe the audio and visual technology features that may be present in a room.

  • Assistive Listening — Supports assistive listening devices to improve audio access for individuals with hearing needs.
  • AV Connection Panel — A simple wall or floor connection point (e.g., HDMI) for sharing content to the room display.
  • BYOD Connection — Allows you to connect your university-issued or personal device (e.g., laptop, tablet, or phone) to the room display using HDMI or USB-C.
  • Classroom Piano — A piano available for instructional use.
  • Confidence Monitor — A display visible only to the presenter or instructor for previewing content, notes, or timing during presentations.
  • Digital Microscope — Displays magnified images from a microscope on the room screen for group viewing.
  • Document Camera (Ceiling) — Displays physical materials from an overhead (top-down) view, such as documents, lab work, dissections, or large objects, on the screen.
  • Interactive Display — A large touchscreen display that allows you to present, write, and interact with content (e.g., SMART Board).
  • Interactive Monitor — A small touchscreen at the instructor station for controlling and annotating content while presenting.
  • Lecture Capture System — Enables recording or streaming of lectures, including audio, video, and presentation content.
  • Projectable Whiteboard Wall — A writable surface that can also be used to project content.
  • Projection Screen — A dedicated screen for displaying projected content.
  • Room Monitoring System — Cameras and microphones used to record or monitor activity in the room.
  • Stereo Speakers — High-quality speakers with left/right audio, ideal for music or media playback.
  • Theatrical Lighting — Stage lighting for performances or presentations, controlled by a lighting system.
  • Video Wall — Multiple connected screens that function as one large display.
  • Voice Amplification Mic — A microphone that amplifies your voice throughout the room.
  • Webcam — A fixed camera for video conferencing or recording.

Room Feature Definitions

These definitions describe the physical characteristics and accessibility features of a space.

  • Chalkboard — A traditional chalk writing surface.
  • Flexible — Movable furniture and features that allow the room layout to be easily reconfigured.
  • Mobility Accessible — Designed to support mobility needs, including wheelchair access and ease of movement throughout the space.
  • Soundproofing — Acoustical treatment that reduces outside noise and improves sound quality within the room.
  • Studio Lighting — Lighting designed to support high-quality video recording or streaming.
  • Visual Accessibility — Includes features that support individuals with visual impairments.
  • Wall-to-Wall Whiteboard — Extensive whiteboard space across most or all walls for writing and collaboration.
  • Whiteboard — A standard dry-erase writing surface.