UC distributes laptops as students shift to online instruction
Helping students transition to online classes
The University of Cincinnati is providing laptops to students as it transitions to online classes after suspending face-to-face instruction due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Laptop distributions continued in safe zones on UC’s main campus this week as faculty and staff worked to ensure all students have access to a computer and reliable internet connection while shifting to remote learning for the remainder of spring semester.
Following the university’s decision to transition to virtual classes, IT@UC and the Division of Experience-Based Learning and Career Education began working together to purchase laptops and secure internet options for students as online learning becomes the new norm for the foreseeable future.
Funded through the NEXT Apprenticeship Program, approximately 200 computers have been purchased.
“We hope to minimize exposure to COVID-19 and enable students to continue their education by providing laptops to those in need, regardless of their major,” said Aaron Burdette, faculty lead, NEXT Apprenticeship Program. “I would encourage any student who needs a laptop to complete the NEXT Apprenticeship application.”
In partnership with the UC Public Safety Team, about 30 laptops have already been distributed, and IT@UC has posted a list of free or discounted internet providers, so that students can begin using the computers immediately.
“UC has always been focused on the success of our students,” said Paul Foster, assistant vice president for enterprise academic technology and acting assistant vice president for enterprise shared services, IT@UC.
“In light of everything happening in our world today, the Endpoint Management Team led by George Russell is refocusing and finding new ways to support students in their academic endeavors. Many thanks to George and his team!”
Computers are available to students who don't have a personal technology device. Requests can be submitted through the Next Apprenticeship Program application. Questions? Email Aaron Burdette, faculty lead, NEXT Apprenticeship Program.
Related Stories
UC students receive inaugural Arnold I. Miller awards
November 7, 2024
Two students have won the Arnold I. Miller Awards for Outstanding Rising Senior in the UC’s School for Environment and Sustainability (SEaS). Seniors Daoud Saadeh and Jennifer Tomak were the first two recipients of the honor. The award recognizes students for their involvement in the community and their work in the classroom. The award is named for Miller, an emeritus professor of geology, former senior associate dean, and a formative director of SEaS, which is part of UC’s College of Arts and Sciences. SEaS was established just a year ago, created in response to student and faculty demand for a comprehensive hub of environmental research and teaching. An interdisciplinary school, it offers students the opportunity to deep-dive into a curriculum that includes both robust environmental science and social sciences at the same time. It also includes opportunities for co-op, internship, research and study-abroad experiences. Although both Tomak and Saadeh are majoring in environmental studies, they both took a different path to get there.
First DNA from Pompeii victims tells story of volcanic disaster
November 7, 2024
UC Classics Professor Steven Ellis talks to Nature about a new study examining DNA of victims of the massive eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
UC study sheds light on copper’s role in driving kidney cancer
November 7, 2024
A new University of Cincinnati study published in the journal Cancer Discovery details how the accumulation of copper helps clear cell renal cell carcinoma grow and advance in stage.