University Technology Services » User Support Services » Services » Faculty Laptop Initiative
Faculty Laptop Initiative
Program Description
In response to faculty requests for greater flexibility and mobility in our computing environment, UTS has been researching requirements and feasibility of a faculty laptop program. (The terms notebook and laptop will be used interchangeably throughout this document.) In this program, the current standard desktop will be replaced a tablet notebook system with a docking station in the user's USF office. The first stages of this project included implementation of a campus-wide wireless network. As the wireless implementation is progressing, the next step is a laptop pilot program for a select number of faculty. This pilot group will assist with identifying possible barriers to laptop implementation on a campus-wide level, as well help to identify specific training needs.
Strategic Plan Alignment
This project aligns itself easily with the Strategic Direction Statement for Technology. This program will "enhance and support the learning process through the use of integrated technology". Many of the implementing objectives in the Technology strategic plan apply directly within the scope of this project.
Pilot Program Description
Office Desktop computers of faculty on the Campus Technology Committee will be replaced by a laptop/docking station system. This laptop will become the user's primary USF-supplied computer. This will give users added flexibility and mobility for computing needs.
Anticipated Progression of this Program
USF Faculty: Upon successful completion of the pilot program (Fall 2007), we will begin to offer all faculty members a choice between a laptop and desktop system - according to the standard 3-5 year replacement cycle. At this time, we do not anticipate forcing faculty to choose a notebook system if a regular desktop is preferred. (Some institutions have made this choice).
USF Staff: We realize that a notebook solution would be beneficial for many staff on campus, as well as faculty. At this time, the automatic desktop with notebook replacement option will only be offered to faculty. Staff needs will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, due to significant cost differences between the two configurations.
Students: After successful implementation of notebook systems for USF faculty, we anticipate requiring all incoming students to purchase a laptop computer. Research by UTS on this "mandate" program has already begun, with much additional research still to be completed.
Required Training to Receive a Laptop
1. Basic Notebook Training: Training and guidance regarding specific laptop (hardware) features and usage will be required for all participants. Participants will receive the notebooks as part of this training session. This will be offered by the Distance, Instruction and Educational Technology Division of UTS.
2. Security Training: Increasing legislation regarding information security now requires us to implement a comprehensive information security program. This training will be required of all USF employees. However, mobile users will have unique security requirements due to inherent security risks of a mobile system. This training will be offered by Technology Security and Compliance Division of UTS.
3. Software Training: Notebooks will include Microsoft OneNote software. This is a fairly new Microsoft Office component that has just recently become available as part of our Campus Agreement.
4. Use of the Notebook in Educational Process (Instructional Technology): Formal training and guidance with ideas to "jumpstart" integration of the notebook/mobile technology in the classroom will be developed. This training will be offered through the Distance, Instruction and Educational Technology Division of UTS.
5. Peer Groups - Professional Development: Institutions with successful notebook programs for faculty members (and students) have credited peer discussion and discourse as a major factor in success. Faculty will be encouraged to develop this type of forum - campus technology committee members will be asked to assist with development of this type of informal feedback/training sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install my own software, home printers, cameras, peripherals, etc?
Terms of use: The laptop is intended for use for university-related business as a productivity tool, curriculum tool, and for research and communication. It is not intended as a replacement for any computers that may be owned personally. I understand that because this is a University resource, UTS will not install or support non-University owned hardware, software and peripherals.
Software Installs - Because the notebook is a university-owned asset, UTS must continue to regularly audit and document all software installed. Procedures do not change in regards for software and hardware installation requests. All software and hardware must be purchased through UTS and approved for installation. Printers and other devices - Unfortunately, opening up the system for printer installations also may allow installation of other, potentially-harmful devices.
How do I access the internet off-campus? Can I install my dial-up or home internet connection?
Terms of use: I understand that because this is a University resource, UTS will not install or support non-University owned hardware, software and peripherals. This includes network connections other than the USF network. UTS currently has limited resources to assist with troubleshooting home internet connections. At this time, the University provides internet connection on campus - other network connections are not supported. Unsecured home internet connections can also pose a security risk to our network. Note: Many broadband and wireless networks will work on these notebooks without additional configuration. However, UTS does not support network connections other than those at USF.
What about the USF wireless connection? Can I do everything over the USF wireless that I can do in my office?
Wireless networks are inherently insecure. For this reason, we purposely block specific servers from access via wireless connections, as well as certain applications such as Jenzabar. This is for the protection of students, employees, and other stakeholders of the university - as these servers and applications may contain confidential and/or private information. At this stage in our wireless implementation, access via wireless is limited to the Internet only (Including email via OutlookWeb Access). Access to other applications such as Jenzabar must be done via a wired connection. Future plans for the wireless network include opening access to Outlook and network shares, however further testing must take place before this is opened.
What about repair? Can Help Desk technicians repair the laptops themselves?
Because of the specialized and integrated components of a notebook system, the Help Desk technician's ability to do repairs in-house is limited. In most instances, laptops must be shipped to the manufacturer for repair, with few guarantees as to when it can be returned. A limited number of "spare" notebooks will be available on a first-come-first-served basis. However, faculty in this program should be aware of the limited on-campus repair capabilities - especially when critical files and applications are stored on the system itself.
