Laptop Initiative Overview
The University of Texas at Austin teacher preparation program has a long-standing commitment to the effective use of technology in teaching and learning. Through innovative programs and in partnership with local school districts and corporate sponsors, future teachers have been given increasing instruction and opportunity to develop proficiency in the use of technology to teach in all grade levels and subject areas. One exciting and effective aspect of these efforts was a pilot program equipping future teachers with laptop computers, to use in class, in the schools, and at home. This program proved to be so successful that the decision was made by the faculty and administration to expand this initiative.
Program Goals
All Students in the University of Texas’ College of Education Teacher Preparation Program Will Be Prepared to Enhance their Students’ Learning in Technology-Rich Classrooms.
- Seamlessly integrate technology standards throughout PDS curriculum and in field experiences.
- Ensure and maintain a state-of-the-art technology integration program and infrastructure.
- Secure resources to facilitate the continued implementation and evaluation of technology integration.
- Establish strong partnership with local school districts in our efforts to integrate technology and to support technology integration into our students’ novice teaching experiences.
- Establish networks for inclusion of all teacher preparation programs and the Principalship program.
- Foster faculty-ownership of initiative. Build capacity so that faculty members drive integration.
- Build a virtual community of practice for faculty, preservice students and induction teachers.
- Demonstrate and disseminate the positive impact of the program.
Beginning in the Fall 2002 semester, all UT Austin students engaged in teacher preparation professional certification programs have been required to have a laptop computer conforming to prescribed hardware and software specifications. These computers are required for use in most professional development courses and field experiences, facilitate innovative instructional technology integration in public school teaching, and equip our graduates for teaching in Texas classrooms of the future.
Under this plan, each specific program defines the semester or course when this requirement will affect its students. In most cases this occurs when a student enters the officially designated "professional development sequence" and so has two to four semesters remaining to complete all certification requirements.
In order to provide the best possible support for students and faculty in this innovative project, only one operating system is supported. To minimize the cost of this requirement for students who do not already own a computer meeting the specifications, the College of Education has sought competitive bids from leading computer vendors. Based on careful consideration of cost, functionality, ease of use, and vendor commitment to an ongoing support partnership, the Apple Macintosh was selected as the supported platform.
Apple has offered a discount for a minimum package, and is also offering several other options and accessories. The College of Education has secured agreement from the Office of Student Financial Services to include the minimum costs of this requirement in each affected student's financial aid package.
To prepare for this requirement, faculty in teacher preparation programs have revised (and continue to revise) curriculum to infuse technology into best educational practice. Students affected by this requirement are notified directly and individually. These students receive special training at the beginning of the semester to assist them in maximizing use of their computers in classes and field experiences. They are also able to take advantage of wireless Internet access, on campus and elsewhere, including the entire Sanchez Building.