Dentistry, Computing Science, Engineering and History of Art students will receive a free laptop to enhance and support their studies, through the major expansion of a technology initiative launched by the University of Aberdeen.
The development, initially introduced by the University for Engineering students last year, has been rolled out to encompass three additional degree programmes following its success.
New students matriculating in Dentistry, Engineering and Computing Science degrees in September 2008 will be eligible to receive a free laptop, with a tailored software package, which will be available for their personal use and theirs to retain following graduation. Third year History of Art students will also be eligible for a similar scheme.
The initiative aims to provide scholars with access to new technology, to give them a positive start to their academic career as Cathy Macaslan, Vice-Principal, Learning & Teaching, University of Aberdeen explains:
"Students embarking on university life need to be able to use technology to ensure they get the most out of their studies. The technology scheme has been developed with this in mind, with the objective of providing more students with the vital technological equipment they require to aid and enhance their coursework.
"Now more than ever core technology skills are essential in a broad spectrum of professions. The technology scheme is not just about supporting students during their studies, it is also about developing their abilities in handling IT hardware and software, and providing them with the skills to adapt to new environments with new technology, with a view to enhancing their prospects with future employers."
First year Dentistry and Engineering students, as well as new first and direct entry year two Computing Science undergraduates will receive their laptops during the first week of the new term, when they will be offered professional advice and information on how to best use the equipment's range of programmes and tools in the exciting and modern technology environment provided for students at the University.
This environment includes the largest wireless infrastructure in UK Higher Education and the recently introduced Studentmail service, where the University has partnered Microsoft in providing all students and future alumni with an email account for life – the first service of its type in Scotland.
The laptop scheme also further complements advances in the teaching facilities the University offers. Developments include the ongoing refurbishment project of the Fraser Noble Building which will include state of the art teaching rooms.
Ms Macaslan continues: "From the classroom environment to coursework materials, the University of Aberdeen endeavours to give students access to provisions which enable successful and prosperous university careers. We are confident that the technology scheme will significantly benefit all the students participating in September."