Include a short write up here:

<short abstract of project>

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Proposal
To enhance efficiency and innovation, we propose creating custom digital avatars of one or two lecturers from our departments as a trial. These avatars can be utilized to produce multiple videos annually, eliminating the need for repeated video production. This approach will significantly reduce the time and resources required for video creation while maintaining consistency and quality.

Potential Applications

• Marketing and Outreach: Streamlined production of Open House and promotional videos.

• Online Teaching: Use avatars to create engaging and interactive online teaching materials.

Proposed Process

1. Record a sample presentation by the lecturer in high-definition, with proper lighting and audio.

2. Submit the video to a vendor for processing.

3. Receive the custom digital avatar for use in future projects.

Technology Partners
We have identified two companies, HeyGen and Synthesia, that specialize in creating high-quality digital avatars and offer subscription plans suitable for this purpose.

Impact

• Efficiency: Reduces repetitive production tasks, freeing up staff time for other activities.

• Scalability: Enables quick adaptation for various purposes, including new courses or events.

• Innovation: Promotes a forward-thinking culture by leveraging cutting-edge technology.

Anyone interested to have chat and discuss more, feel free to contact me :)

-Zulfadli, VPA

Edwin Chng & Tan Aik Ling (NSSE)

Key Features & Benefits:

✅ Real-time Updates

• Automatically display current and upcoming bookings, including course codes, course titles, tutor names, and event details.

• Seamless integration with Facilities Booking System, ISAAC, or other centralized content management systems for efficient updates.

✅ Dynamic & Interactive Content

• Displays can cycle between room bookings, event posters, and PDPA photography notices when applicable.

• Supports videos, advertisements, and upcoming NIE events when rooms are unoccupied.

• Option to turn off when idle to conserve energy.

✅ Eco-Friendly & Sustainable

• Significantly reduces paper usage by replacing printed notices with digital screens.

By adopting this smart signage solution, NIE enhances user experience, sustainability, and operational effectiveness—ensuring a seamless and modern campus environment. 🚀💡

1. Recreate the iconic Milo van experience at an NIE’s 75^th anniversary event and Milo is served to current NIE student-teachers, NIE alumni, NIE staff, NIE mentors and guests. We can get attendees to write a thank you note to a teacher who shaped them and post it on a “Wall of Gratitude” (can be placed outside LT1).

2. Host a special Teachers’ Day at NIE (with the iconic Milo van). Every NIE student-teacher, NIE staff and ex NIE staff (who will be invited back) will get a cup of Milo with a card: “Thank you for shaping generations”, “To the teacher who believed in me”, etc.

Rationale and Evidence Base

Office-based sedentary behaviour is linked to adverse health outcomes including musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and reduced productivity. Sit–stand desk converters offer a practical and space-efficient solution by allowing employees to alternate between sitting and standing throughout the workday.

Recent peer-reviewed studies support their effectiveness:

A 2023 randomized controlled trial found that providing sit–stand workstations reduced sitting time by 66–80 minutes per day, with participants reporting reduced fatigue and improved vitality (Mainsbridge et al., 2023).

Another study observed a 6.5% increase in self-rated productivity, along with reductions in neck, back, and shoulder discomfort when sit–stand options were used over 3 months (Neuhaus et al., 2020).

A systematic review concluded that sit–stand desk users consistently report higher work engagement and reduced musculoskeletal complaints, especially in the lower back and neck regions (Shrestha et al., 2018).

Importantly, behaviour support (e.g. ergonomic guidance and reminders) improves adoption and enhances long-term benefits (Tew et al., 2022).

Pilot Structure

Participants: 15–20 TEUP staff members (opt-in basis)

Equipment: Each participant receives a sit–stand desk converter (e.g. ErgoWorks EW-MT201 Ultra Slim)

Support: Brief ergonomic orientation and usage tips

Duration: 6–8 weeks, followed by a feedback survey

Evaluation: Pre/post self-report survey measuring:

Sitting time

Physical discomfort (neck, shoulder, back)

Energy and productivity

Overall user experience

Budget Estimate

This pilot proposes purchasing units of the ErgoWorks EW-MT201 Ultra Slim Sit–Stand Desk Converter, each priced at SGD 159.00 inclusive of GST. The total estimated cost for the pilot for 20 pax comes to SGD 3,180.00. The converters are a one-time investment and can be reused or reallocated in future wellness initiatives.

Expected Outcomes

Reduced sedentary time among TEUP staff

Lower reports of physical discomfort

Improved energy and focus at work

Positive feedback supporting long-term adoption

Conclusion

Introducing sit–stand desk converters in the TEUP office is a small but evidence-based intervention aligned with NIE’s focus on innovation and wellbeing. With strong research support, minimal disruption, and a manageable cost, this pilot has the potential to improve staff comfort, engagement, and performance.

To promote awareness and understanding of NIE’s strategies and to help align faculty and staff initiatives with these strategic directions, we plan to create an engaging and interactive platform to serve as a consistent and accessible resource.

We envision this resource as providing an overview of NIE 2030, simplified explanations of our strategic priorities and calls to action to encourage greater staff involvement.

To ensure the effective use of engaging visuals, videos and clear content, we intend to collaborate with an external vendor. We will leverage their expertise to develop a Proof-of-Concept. The scope of this collaboration will include the development of a visual style and the creation of a storyboard for the videos and interactive elements.