University of Reading - Modernising Simulation & OSCE Recording Systems

Overview

In 2026, the University of Reading sought to modernise its outdated and non functional camera and recording systems within the laboratory spaces of the JJ Thompson (Level 1) and Harry Nursten buildings. Building on the success of the CSKILLS installation in the Clinical Simulation Training Suite (opened in 2023), the University commissioned us once again to deliver a reliable, high quality, and future proof solution.

This case study outlines the requirements, technical solution, and outcomes achieved across both buildings.

Requirements

The University needed a unified, scalable, and easy to operate recording solution that would support OSCE examinations, simulation activities, and general teaching.

The main requirements of the included:

• Replace aging and unreliable camera and audio hardware
• Install high definition cameras in consultation rooms and at the pharmacy counter
• Provide clear audio capture in all rooms and teaching spaces
• Integrate telephones for capturing call-based scenarios
• Deliver a simple and flexible method for live monitoring, streaming, and playback
• Ensure compatibility with the existing CSKILLS system on the upper floor of JJ Thompson

The Solution

Harry Nursten Building

• Consulation Rooms
• 4 rooms, each equipped with two mini wide angle 1080p cameras
• Audio Capture
• Overhead microphone arrays with six built in microphones
• Integrated noise-cancellation
• All audio routed to a digital mixer, controllable from the CSKILLS laptop
• Telephones
• One phone in each consulation room
• A dedicated master phone located at the control lectern
• CSKILLS Control Laptop
• Can connect from the lectern or multiple connection points in the room
• Provides full control, live streaming, and session playback

JJ Thompson Building – Level 1

A more complex environment requiring additional camera types and audio configurations

• Consulation Rooms
• 5 rooms, each fitted with two mini wide angle 1080p cameras
• Pharmacy Counter
• Equipped with two PTZ 1080p cameras for flexible, adjustable coverage
• Audio Capture
• A mix of drop down microphones and microphone arrays
• All feeds routed to a digital audio mixer
• Telephones
• Phones installed in each consultation room and at the pharmacy counter
• A dedicated master phone located at the control lectern
• CSKILLS Control Laptop
• Supports full control, recording, monitoring, and streaming
• Connects via the lectern or a variety of access points in the room

Outcomes & Benefits

Following installation, the University gained a robust, integrated, and easy to operate system that enhances both teaching and examination delivery.

Key Results

• High quality video & audio capture across all rooms
• Live streaming and real time monitoring for OSCE assessments
• Improved scenario realism using the new CSKILLS digital phone exchange
• Enables room-to-room calls
• Allows instructors to “drop in” on calls
• Automatically lowers other microphone feeds for clear monitoring

Future-proof expansion

• The new systems are designed to link with the existing CSKILLS installation on the upper floor
• Long term plans include cross floor scenarios, flexible multi room recording, and streamlined scheduling based on room availability