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Students appreciate computer advantage
With the installation of new Gateway computers in all residence hall
rooms complete, Ohio University has taken a leap forward in technology
while enhancing students’ academic and personal lives.
“I can’t imagine not having this computer,” says Maggie
Wickline, a first-year transfer student who acknowledges that her high-speed
Internet and e-mail connection has helped ward off homesickness this academic
year. “I can talk to friends and family at home.”
The University completed the installation of 4,241 computers in the campus’
40 residence halls in time for the start of classes this past fall. The
initiative was launched in May 1999.
Sophomore English major Bridget Lowe says her personal computer has helped
her stay on top of writing assignments.
“It’s easy access,” she says. “I don’t have to
go to the library or the computer lab to type all my papers.” Lowe
also found her winter break internship while surfing the information highway.
And many prospective freshmen are finding the technology perk appealing.
Admissions officials say the computers played a part in attracting this
past fall’s near-record 12,297 freshman applications. University
officials are surveying students to find out exactly how they’re
using the computers and their level of computer knowledge.
“We’ve had a very positive response from students,” President
Robert Glidden says. “Computers are, of course, only tools, but they
are essential tools for today’s businesses and professions. Most
importantly, this technology affords us the opportunity to transform teaching
and learning and to engage students more in the learning process.”
The sheer scope of the project prompted Gateway to run two large-scale
advertisements in summer and fall issues of The Chronicle of Higher Education.
The computer initiative also was cited in a New York Times story this
past summer about how computers are becoming standard dorm staples.
“Our infrastructure and academic support program make us the only
major public university in the country with such extensive technology,”
says Vice President for Administration Gary North. “I think this
says something about our commitment to academic quality and academic support.”
— Chiffon Staebler and Katie Fitzgerald
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