A new Pounds 600,000 learning and teaching support centre at Exeter University aims to allow students to spend less time in lectures and more time in tutorials.
IT head Laurie Burbridge said: "The aim is to bring them (students and tutors) closer by freeing up more time. Video-conferencing is becoming much better and more affordable. This means that teaching staff can talk to students even when they are not on campus."
The centre has PCs, a resources and common room, and offices.