Thompson Hall now reopened, equipped with new classroom technology

This photo shows a renovated lobby in Thompson Hall. The building's interiors have been completely renovated. (Jake McLernon)

Thompson Hall reopened at the start of the spring semester, debuting new classroom technology that developers say will improve the functionality of the building. The building had been closed since June 2010 for renovations.

Thompson Hall, which originally opened in 1972, is one of the oldest buildings on the Fairfax Campus.  “Thompson […] had lived out its useful life,” said Mike Herman, Capital Outlay Project Engineer, and project manager for the renovation. 

The building was gutted, and everything was replaced except for the exterior, excluding new, more energy efficient windows, according to Herman.  Part of the renovation included the removal of harmful material such as asbestos, and the replacement of damaged columns. 

“Now we have a very appealing and energy efficient building that will be useful for the next 40 years,” said Herman.

The new and improved Thompson is the home of the College of Education and Human Development, as well as five University Registrar controlled classrooms that incorporate that latest in teaching technology.

These classroom upgrades include high definition LCD projectors with HDMI connectivity, as well as interactive SmartBoard technology in the new CEHD Teaching Lab.

Instructor stations are equipped with a Blu-Ray player, computer connectivity, USB ports, and a high definition webcam.  Video conferencing via Skype and Google+ is available through ceiling-mounted speakers in the CEHD Science Lab and Multipurpose Room.

“These classrooms were designed with flexibility in mind, to accommodate a multitude of teaching styles,” said Zach Shearer, project expeditor with Mason’s Division of Instructional Technology (DoIT).

“The overall effect is a high quality collaborative environment geared to teaching and learning,” said Martin Ford, senior associate dean of the College of Education and Human Development.

“Those responsible for designing and constructing the building did a terrific job of maximizing the functionality of the building,” said Ford, “kudos to Project Manager Mike Herman and his entire crew.”

Questions, comments, and feedback regarding the new Thompson Hall University classrooms or any University classroom can be directed to Zach Shearer at zshearer@gmu.edu.