Ball State University Enhances College of Communication, Information, and Media Studios to Boost Student Learning Experiences

Topics: Academic Programs, College of Communication Information and Media, Faculty, Students

October 15, 2024

Ball State University's College of Communication, Information, and Media (CCIM) has completed major studio renovations, integrating cutting-edge technology to enhance immersive learning experiences and support student success.

Completed prior to the start of the Fall 2024 semester, the renovated studios-located in the Ball Communication Building-were upgraded to meet industry standards and to enhance hands-on, real-world learning experiences for students.

"Our studio renovations reflect CCIM's ongoing commitment to providing students with cutting-edge resources that prepare them for the evolving media landscape," said Dr. Kristen McCauliff, interim dean of CCIM and associate professor of communication studies. "By integrating industry-standard technology, we are equipping our students with the skills and experiences they need to succeed as professionals and leaders in their fields."

A key feature of the renovations is a 19-foot LED volume wall in Studio C, installed for virtual production in partnership with ARwall. This advanced system-comprising linked LED panels that display video footage or 3D content as a backdrop for actors-is the same technology used to film productions like The Mandalorian.

"I am so very excited that our students now have the opportunity to work with this industry-leading technology," said Suzy Smith, chair of the Department of Media and associate professor of media. "The chance to partner with ARwall and bring their virtual production expertise to our studios and students is outstanding. I look forward to seeing the amazing works that our students produce."

To maximize the benefits of this technology, CCIM has introduced a new academic concentration, "Virtual Effects and Motion Graphics," in collaboration with the School of Art in Ball State's College of Fine Arts.

"The main goal for our department's studio renovation was to build spaces for our media students to practice and hone their creative skillsets in multiple professional environments," said Dr. Betsy Pike, assistant professor in CCIM's Department of Media. "Accordingly, we have updated our curriculum to ensure this new technology reaches as many students as we possibly can. We now have a capstone course in which those two programs come together, so our media students will work with visual effects art students to create for the wall.

"Our goal is to ensure that it is tied into the curriculum and that our students have access," Dr. Pike continued, "not just a cool new toy."

In the multi-purpose Studio D, the department installed three different walls for filming, highlighted by a two-walled cyclorama and green screen. Also installed in this studio are 45 professional ceiling lights, including two concert-type lights that can change color, rotate 360 degrees, and be used as spotlights.

Studio E has been converted into a creative space with professional lighting. Students working there can create special projects, such as a stop-motion video, or build a set for various mediums.

As an education leader in the media production industry, CCIM prepares its nearly 1,600 students to thrive in ever-changing and fast-paced technology-based fields.

For more information about Ball State's College of Communication, Information, and Media, visit CCIM's website.