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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What will change and how will it work
Why not simply set up either a Mac or a PC in the classroom?
Here are a few of the issues with a single OS computer in classrooms…
The smaller issue is the question of which operating system to offer in each room and the added complexity the Registrar would face when the room’s OS must be considered as rooms are scheduled. Our users are currently requesting about 60% Mac, 40% Windows. Though many are comfortable with either, others require Windows, or require Mac.
The larger issue is more technical. Our many USB connected features, (ie. cameras, mics, polling systems, interactive displays, etc) can reliably connect to only one computer. If, for example, these devices are connected to a room’s Windows computer, Mac users and others who prefer to teach with laptops would be unable to access the room’s camera and mic systems.
BYOD and laptops allow every user to choose their preferred OS, makes all classroom features available to all faculty and as a bonus, allows them to walk into the classroom with all their sites and software ready to go without booting up or logging in.
What is a USB-C connection and what are its advantages?
Every teaching desk in a converted room will have a pair of USB-C cables for quick connection to room devices. You will use one or both depending on whether you need access to the microphone and camera.
This video provides an overview of USB-C and its capabilities.
The the USB-C connections will:
- display your laptop screen to the room
- play laptop audio through the room speakers
- connect to the room’s camera and microphone for Zoom, Google Meet or Panopto
- connect to additional USB devices in the room (e.g. wired mouse, wireless presenter)
- allow you to see your laptop screen on the desk monitor
- connect to wired internet
- charge your laptop
What if I need a computer on short notice?
We recognize that such needs will arise, and definitely plan to have help available. We are considering various options.
In cases where a laptop fails during a class, a fast solution is essential. In other cases where a computer needs repair or someone requires a loaner laptop, a different solution is in order. A range of situations are anticipated, and will be provided for from the start. We will also learn much from the pilot which will enable us to steadily improve how things work.
What if my laptop doesn’t have a USB-C port?
If your laptop is more than three years old, it may not have a USB-C port. An adapter will be provided so you can connect using your older USB-A port. This will offer all of the features listed previously with one exception…. it will not charge your laptop. You may need to bring your laptop charger to class.
An HDMI cable will also be available for connection to older laptops.
Will I need a dongle to connect my laptop?
No. All necessary connections will be provided in each classroom.
Will I need to bring my own cable to the classroom?
No. Connection cables will be provided in each classroom. You may, however, need to bring your laptop charger. (see What if my laptop doesn’t have a USB-C port?)
Is it possible to set up a universal laptop power plug-in in each classroom?
The USB-C connection will charge your laptop. Older laptops may not have USB-C ports. In such cases, you will connect the cable using the USB-A adapter (provided) and you may need to bring your charging cable to the classroom if you need a charge.
What if I find my laptop screen to be too small in a classroom?
The large desk displays will remain in the classrooms. They will display whatever image is showing on the room’s large screen. If you are displaying your laptop screen to the room, it will also show up on the desk display. This will help you see your laptop screen while teaching.
I struggle with a laptop mouse. What are my options?
The wired mouse on the classroom desk will remain and will automatically connect to your laptop as you plug in the USB connector. For your office, you may request a wired mouse.
Document camera, recorded video, in-room camera – this can all be operated from my laptop?
Once each room is converted, you will connect using a USB-C connection. Once connected, the laptop will display to the room, send audio to the room speakers, connect to the camera, mics, doc cam, etc and in most cases charge your laptop. Yes, your laptop would then do most of the Zooming, etc. It will also show the laptop image on the desk display so you have a bigger screen to look at.
What is the plan for the DVD players as a part of this change?
The DVD/BluRay players will remain in the classrooms.
Will I need to display my laptop using the wireless system?
No, you won’t need to connect wirelessly. Wired USB connections will be provided in all classrooms. The wireless display (MirrorOp) option, in many classrooms, is convenient if you want mobility, and for displaying mobile devices such as phones and tablets. Wireless display works best when showing static images. It doesn’t, however, show smooth video or connect your laptop to the camera, microphone, etc. For those features, you will always want to connect with the USB cable provided.
Will I be able to present with other mobile devices?
If your mobile device has a USB-C port, it may be able to display in a classroom. If not, many classrooms have the MirrorOp wireless presentation feature which will remain as an option.
Will department labs be affected?
Dual-boot (Mac/Windows) computers in departmental labs will be removed or converted to Mac-only mode. The existing devices may be replaced with Mac or Windows computers depending on the needs of the department. Any dual-boot instructor computers will be replaced with a USB-C connection (or a Mac or Windows computer if required).
Getting what you need
What is the Tech Request process and timeframe?
The IT Technology Request process happens each spring and fall. Your department Chair will collect and submit all requests on behalf of your department. All technology requests are then presented for approval to the Academic Computing Policy Board. You are notified, via email, once your request has been approved/not approved. Approved equipment is distributed throughout the summer.
Who should request a laptop?
St. Olaf issued computers are replaced on a 5-year cycle. Your department Chair should have a list of those desktop and laptop computers due for replacement. Additionally, if you will be teaching in a St. Olaf classroom and your desktop computer is less than 5 years old, you should have your Chair add your name to that list for replacement. You may also request a desk display, keyboard and mouse to connect to your laptop while in your office.
Can I keep my desktop computer and also request a laptop?
Faculty and staff members are each issued one computer. If you have an extreme use case that requires two computers, you may submit such a request. All technology requests are subject to approval by the Academic Computing Policy Board.
Can I get a bigger screen for my office?
Yes, you may request a 22” desk display, keyboard and mouse through the IT Technology Request process to compliment your laptop.
Other topics
What if I forget my laptop at home or it's not working?
Short-term loaner laptops are available for faculty and staff.
How will students use the classroom technology?
We recognize that students need access to the classroom technology for in-class presentations, tutoring, study sessions and various other reasons. Generally, students willing to use their personal laptop will be encouraged to do so. Laptops will be available for students to check out for short periods as necessary.
What if I have other questions?
Send your questions to classrooms@stolaf.edu.