Questions
- What is the Catchbox and how does it work?
- How do I use the Catchbox microphone in my classroom?
- How do I request a Catchbox for my class?
- Which classrooms have a Catchbox?
- How do I speak into the Catchbox so everyone can hear?
- Is it safe to throw the Catchbox?
Environment
This article applies to Bowdoin faculty and instructors teaching in medium to large classroom spaces. The Catchbox is a soft foam, throwable microphone that amplifies student and instructor voices and can make discussion and participation more interactive. Catchboxes are set up in various classrooms and connect through the room's sound system.
Resolution
Video: What is Catchbox? (about 2 minutes)
What the Catchbox does
- Active Automute — senses the motion of the Catchbox and temporarily switches off the audio when the device is thrown.
- Light and soft — made of foam, so it is light and durable; the hard electronics are inside, so dropping or throwing it won't damage the device or the person catching it.
- Magnetic locking — a magnetic mechanism locks the microphone securely into the soft cover so it won't come out during use.
Speaking into the Catchbox
Speak into the foam cap on top of the device. Hold the microphone about eight inches from your mouth for the clearest sound, and avoid blocking your face.
Avoid feedback: Using the Catchbox near the room speakers can cause audio feedback.
Using it safely
- Make sure the center microphone is securely locked inside the foam cover before use.
- Use short, underhand passes — avoid long or hard throws.
- Make eye contact with the person you are throwing to so no one is caught off guard.
- Be careful in spaces with glasses, fragile items, or liquids, such as a laboratory or computer lab.
- Do not swing or throw the device by its handle.
A note for students
An instructor might introduce it like this: “This is a Catchbox — a soft, throwable microphone with a speaker at the top. When it's thrown to you, speak into the microphone at the top so everyone can hear you. When prompted, you'll toss it to a classmate so they can share an idea.” Using the Catchbox can help draw in students who may not always get a chance to speak.
Request a Catchbox or a demonstration
Interested in using a Catchbox, or want a tutorial or demonstration? Contact Juli Haugen, Digital Accessibility Specialist in Academic Technology, or use one of these forms:
Additional Help
If you need further assistance, you have several options:
- Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
- Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
- In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
- Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
Additional Resources