FR97-6

A Resolution calling for a First Year Computer Requirement

Sponsored by Executive Vice President and Chairman Howard Foard

Co-Sponsored by Representative Zebarjadi & Representative Lim

Recognizing that, computer technology has changed course of human events and revolutionized the learning process;

Whereas, 73% of First Year students enroll owning computers;

Whereas, the University has already made a sizeable commitment to the advancement of technology by investing in a Grounds-wide LAN system, multiple and expanding servers, software licensing, and support services;

Whereas, the State Council of Higher Education (SCHEV) has recommended a 1.3 million dollars allocation in Financial Aid to the Virginia Polytechnic Institute to support a computer requirement and technology initiative to the General Assembly,

Whereas, numerous peer intuitions have already enacted computer requirements for its First Year Students;

Whereas, enacting a computer requirement at the University of Virginia should enable better software and hardware licensing contracts, making the University’s technology systems more efficient;

Therefore be it resolved that, the University of Virginia Student Council affirm that all incoming First Year Students be required to own a personal computer or laptop with specifications to be determined by each schools minimal needs for maximum proficiency,

Be it resolved with the understanding that, no such requirement should be enforced without sufficient Financial Aid funding to meet the additional need created by this requirement;

Let it be further resolved with the understanding that, the University maintain its computer labs on grounds, and that the task force ensure that all computer labs are adapted to incorporate the latest technology to serve students current, predicted, and special needs;

Be it resolved that, the Board of Visitors, University Administration, University Faculty Senate, and Student Council Lobby the State Legislature for monetary and Financial Aid to support such a requirement,

Let it further be resolved that, the University of Virginia seek corporate contracting to ensure low prices, top-rated computer brands, models, upgrades, and software to match the specified needs of each school;

Be it resolved that, the Student Council of the University of Virginia call upon the University’s faculty and administration to immediately begin integrating computer technology beyond word processing applications into the University’s classroom and educational curriculum to better prepare students for the future, and guarantee classroom use;

Be it resolved that, the University of Virginia ensures ITC’s capability to support any specification required by any school;

Let it further be resolved that, the University of Virginia establish a taskforce representative of Student Council, Faculty, and Administration to study all subsequent issues involved in facilitating a computer requirement to ensure the needs of all interested parties are continually addressed;

Therefore be it resolved that, the First Year Class of the year 2000, be required to enroll with a computer.

  

Enacted this 9th day of December 1997 by the authority of the Representative Body of the Student Council of the University of Virginia.

© 2008 by the Rector and Visitors of the University of Virginia.

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