Laptops, Macs, Netbooks, Tablets(IPads) -- Time to rethink hardware recommendations and/or laptop programs for students?

The session is aimed at comparing and contrasting two different student laptop programs and the schools support models.  The session will also include a brief evaluation of the possible affects of a growing Mac, Netbook and tablet student population. 

The programs:

Mercer Law School (Chris A. Bombardo):

Mercer Law School has administered a laptop program for the past six years.  The Mercer program provides each incoming first year with a new Windows based laptop.  The laptop includes a three-year complete care warranty.   Short of the laptop being stolen it is completed covered by Mercer Law IT or a vendor coming onsite.  All students having the same laptop increases the effectiveness and efficiency of the support provided to students.  Once the student graduates from Mercer Law the laptop ownership is transferred to the student.

Emory Law School (Dell Jackson):

Emory does not have a laptop program, but provides discount pricing through their Campus Computer store.  Emory recommend students purchase a Dell business class model, with a 3yrs service plan. It is Emory custom and practice to support almost any computer that students drag through the door. Supporting a wide range of equipment is very challenging and frustrating at times.  Emory does not do any hardware support on student’s computers. In instances where a student may have a crashed drive, they will assist pulling the data. Very limited support is offered for Macs, mostly software.