The Faculty Computer Distribution Program aims to provide one laptop computer to each faculty member for their general day-to-day responsibilities, consistent with their discipline.
Computer requests are made to the Vice Provost and CIO's Office by academic department chairs through the Office of Digital Learning and Technology Support. The department chairs will be sent a list of faculty eligible for computers at the beginning of the distribution process.
Computers for administrative, research, and support staff as well as part-time faculty and adjuncts are budgeted locally and not supported by this program.
Lightweight teaching laptop with touch screen and stylus input
This is the recommended model for instructors teaching in the Converged learning mode, as well as faculty who frequently travel, give PowerPoint presentations, record lecture/presentations, prefer using a computer to take notes, and/or require a touchscreen interface.
This model is not recommended for daily use of resource-intensive applications such as ProEngineer, MATLAB, Adobe Premier, etc.
Designed to provide computing power comparable to a desktop in a reasonably portable form-factor. It is configured for regular use of ProEngineer, MATLAB, and similar applications.
Non-standard models
We understand that some faculty may prefer a Mac, or other non-standard computer. Macs can be provided on request but we have found they are generally more expensive than the standard models, and may require departmental funding to cover the difference. Android and iOS touchscreen devices (iPads, Galaxy Note Tablets, etc.) have not been shown to remain viable as primary computing devices that will last for 3+ years.
The goal of this program is to provide one laptop computer to each faculty member for their general day-to-day responsibilities, consistent with their discipline. Faculty with specialized computer needs for research should continue to look for funding through other means.