|
Computer Ownership
|
|
|
|
Computer Ownership
|
|
 Fall 2001 marks the first quarter that UC Davis expects every entering undergraduate student to own a computer that meets certain minimum performance standards and that can connect effectively to the Internet. For this edition of "You Asked," we've compiled and answered some frequently asked questions about this new computer ownership expectation. These should cover the main questions students may have. Other questions can be addressed to computerownership@ucdcavis.edu.Why do students need a computer? Since professors can now expect that students have access to a computer, they can also expect their incoming undergraduates to be responsible for computer-related class assignments and activities whether they actually own a computer or not. Thus, the campus regards a computer that meets the minimum standards as a tool that is highly appropriate and one that will enhance a student's academic experience. What are the minimum performance standards for student computers? The campus expects students' computers to be able to run a word processing program, a spreadsheet program, an email program, a Web browser, and to be equipped with a CD-ROM drive. The campus also encourages students to have their own printers. More detailed system recommendations, such as computer speed and hard disk space, can be found at the Computer Ownership Web site. Should students buy a Mac or a PC? The campus supports both Macintosh and PC-compatible computer platforms. Students should check with their major department to see if it recommends one platform over the other. If not, the choice is up to the student. The performance differences between Macs and PCs are minimal; both should meet basic word processing, spreadsheet, and Internet needs. A survey conducted in computer labs during winter 2001 indicated that almost 90 percent of student-owned computers were PC-compatible, and just over 9 percent were Macs. Should students buy a laptop or a desktop? The campus does not recommend one over the other, and the choice depends on how each student might be using his or her computer. Generally, laptops cost more than desktops for the same performance levels, but they are more mobile and easy to bring to classes, the library, wireless study lounges, or cafés. On the other hand, desktops are easier to secure and upgrade. Before purchasing a computer, a student should think about how and where it will be used. The survey conducted in computer labs during winter 2001 indicated 81 percent of students who owned computers owned a desktop, and 19 percent owned a laptop. Should students buy a printer? A printer is highly recommended and will be most convenient for students. Students can use the campus computer rooms to print, but they should keep in mind that beginning this quarter, each computer room user has a 200 sheet per-quarter quota. Once they have exceeded that quota, they will automatically be charged $0.05 for each printed sheet. (See "Labs to Charge for Printing" in the May/June 2001 IT Times. What's going to happen to the campus computer rooms? The campus will continue to manage, maintain, and upgrade the general campus computer rooms on the normal schedule. In fact, this summer brought many computer room upgrades, which are described in detail on Lab Management's Web site. Also, usage in these computer rooms, already very busy, is expected to increase as more and more students become computer-literate and as more instructors incorporate technology into their teaching. Can students get financial aid to help purchase a computer? The Financial Aid Office has developed a Computer Purchase Program that may provide eligible undergraduate financial aid recipients with a loan to purchase a computer. For more details, students should be directed to the Financial Aid Office or to their Web site. Does the campus have computers they can lend students? No, the campus does not have a computer lending program for students. However, there are 15 general campus computer labs available for student use (see the Computer Room Guide for more information on hours and locations of these labs). There are also additional computer resources available to dorm residents. All of these labs are usually busy, and students will often have to wait to use them. Does the campus recommend any computers or vendors? The campus has negotiated a range of competitive prices on two Dell desktop systems and two Dell laptops that meet or exceed the campus recommended specifications. Students can learn more about these computers at the Bookstore Computer Shop or by going to the Computer Ownership Web site. Purchasing one of these Dell computers provide advantages, including:
Where should students buy their computers? Does the university sell computers? Students can purchase from any vendor they choose as long as the computer they buy meets or exceeds the campus recommended specifications listed at the Computer Ownership Web site. If a student chooses to buy a Dell system, he or she can purchase it through the Bookstore Computer Shop or directly from Dell through the Computer Ownership Web site. |
|
|
