Classroom technology changes
The college is moving to a bring your own device (BYOD) classroom technology solution, and will no longer have computers as part of the teaching stations by the end of summer 2022.
As classrooms are upgraded, all dual-boot teaching computers will be removed and replaced by USB cables for connecting your own laptop to the classroom projectors and other technology.
Background
Apple has discontinued the use of Intel processors in favor of Apple silicon. This change ends our ability to provide dual boot computers (using one computer to offer both Mac and Windows) in teaching spaces. To address this unavoidable reality, an IT workgroup was commissioned to re-imagine classroom technology at St. Olaf. After extensive research which included surveying peer institutions, testing new devices and considering multiple options, the group concluded that a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) approach would best serve the campus.
Conversion complete by Fall 2022
All campus classrooms and meeting rooms will be converted to the BYOD design during the summer of 2022. By the beginning of Fall term classrooms will no longer have teaching computers, and you will need to bring your own laptop to teach with.
Converted classrooms will feature USB-C cables for connection to projectors, speakers, cameras, microphones, other room devices. In most cases, these cables will also charge the laptop so you won’t need to bring a charging cable. Only the computer and laptop connections will be changed – all other existing technology features will remain.
We understand that the past couple years have presented multiple challenges, and we’re sorry to be adding yet another, especially at this time. Yet since this change is unavoidable, it is vital that we craft the most effective approach to classroom technology soon rather than waiting until things simply stop working.
If you are a faculty member who will be teaching in St. Olaf classrooms, and do not currently have a St. Olaf issued laptop, ask your department chair or supervisor for help in getting access to a suitable laptop.
