AV Technology invites AV/IT technology managers from various colleges and universities to discuss classroom and campus-wide AV/IT challenges and successes. Discover the classroom technologies that are making a difference and what's planned for next year. Hear about what new AV/IT technologies they are excited about.

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The US education technology sector is facing significant challenges due to tariff policies introduced by the Trump administration, with tariffs on imported technology, including laptops and data center equipment, increasing costs for universities. While some electronics are exempt, overall hardware prices have risen sharply, with some laptops and tablets expected to see price increases of up to 46%. This has led schools to adjust procurement strategies, with some shifting to multiyear agreements to manage costs. Edtech companies are responding by innovating supply chains, raising prices and offering creative financing options.

University of Southern California researchers have customized the Blossom robot, originally developed at Cornell, to serve as a study companion for college students with ADHD. Doctoral student Amy O'Connell led efforts to program Blossom to provide passive companionship, simulating the supportive presence many students with ADHD find helpful when completing tasks. The team 3D prints Blossom's parts at USC's advanced computing center, assembling each unit in about three hours.

California State University is partnering with Amazon, OpenAI and other tech companies to become the nation's largest AI-empowered university. The initiative includes campuswide access to ChatGPT Edu, AI training camps and industry input on workforce skills.