beyond your textbook

Technology

When it comes to technology, Drew is very different from most other colleges. We are a laptop school, which means that student laptops are the foundation of our instructional technology program. You will not find many computer labs here. Rather, our laptops provide full academic functionality, and you can access everything you need, it at any time, whether you are in class, at home or just about anywhere on campus. In the following interview, Alan Candiotti, Drew’s Assistant Vice President for University Technology, answers some frequently asked questions about technology at Drew.

When did Drew become a laptop school?
We started the laptop program in 1988. Before that, in 1984, we became the first liberal arts college in the United States to provide personal computers to all entering students. Drew is recognized as a frontrunner in technology usage. We were one of just 10 schools in 2000 to receive a “Pioneer Award” from EDUCAUSE, a nonprofit national consortium of colleges, universities and other organizations that is dedicated to the transformation of higher education through the application of information technologies.
 
How does the laptop program work?
New first year students receive a university-provided laptop that is paid for as part of the technology fee for four years.  An upgraded model is available for an optional one-time upgrade fee.  Currently, we use Lenovo ThinkPad® machines that are customized for our proprietary network.  All laptops come with a four-year warranty and accidental damage coverage, as well as software licenses, so students pay nothing additional for licensed software, re-imaging or hardware repairs. Our on-campus support includes a help desk that is open 70 hours per week as well as a full-service computer repair shop.

How do students use their laptops in class?
Students use their laptops to access software, take notes, complete assignments and even take exams.

Are there restrictions on how the laptops are used out of class?
No. As part of our technology program, the Drew network environment is highly managed in terms of virus protection and system security updates. We require that all users of the network comply with federal, state and local ordinances, and with University policies that keep the network secure and available to all. But we do not otherwise restrict what the students can do with their computers outside the classroom. In fact, on a typical weekday night a very high percentage of the students – some 85% – are connected to our network for academic and personal reasons.

What is the technology infrastructure like on campus?
The Drew campus is chock full of wired and wireless connections, so students can access the network from their classes, residences, common areas and even many outdoor spaces. Today, there are 5,500 ports on campus, which is far more than the number of people here. Our network is specially designed for an academic environment. Each course has a place for sharing and saving files and information, as well as a chat room. Students can access a suite of software packages on the network at no additional charge. Additionally, students, faculty and staff all have email and personal space on the network that can be used for file storage and other functions, like creating websites.

Do you provide training?
At the beginning of our students’ first year, they take a training course that helps them learn about the Drew computing environment; how to take care of their laptops, including protecting them from spyware and viruses; and a few things about key software programs. We also provide a full range of training programs on a non-required basis and employ a full-time training coordinator. We find that many students come to Drew with strong computing background – and that those with less experience do learn quickly.

Are there the non-academic benefits to Drew’s approach to technology?
Absolutely. Our alumni often cite the enriching technology experience at Drew as a real advantage in their careers because they are so accustomed to employing technology in day-to-day activities. 

Can students get involved in the Drew technology department?
Our help desk is staffed 100% by students, and being involved can be a great educational experience. In fact, many of our alumni who have been part of our on-campus computer support and training teams have gone into professional careers involving technology.