Teaching and learning materials are stored on a central streaming server which is capable of delivering multiple concurrent streams of realtime information, such as video and audio. Students have been able to access this material at a number of specified points across the various Monash campuses since early 1996. ANSPAG is currently looking to expand usage of the system to other universities around Australia over AARNet2. ANSPAG is also investigating the delivery of realtime services over other networks such as cable modem, frame relay and emerging technologies such as wireless broadband, ADSL and satellite.

By presenting this material as VoD in the libraries, students have free, unrestricted and equitable access to the material, whenever they have time available to review it. It is anticipated that this early application of library access VoD will lead to wider acceptance of the technology and generate further demand and applications.

Users and usage are being carefully monitored to identify any issues which may arise, particularly with regard to user interfaces and technology acceptance.

Monash University is an early adopter of this type of technology in Australia and is showing great leadership in pioneering the use of advanced communications in the delivery of inter-campus and distance education. The University has generously supported this Pilot Trial as a special project.

Here is a more details history of Mciver and its development.