 Do
I need to bring my own computer to Otterbein?
Otterbein does not require that
students have their own personal computer.
That said, many courses require the use
of personal computers (talk with your advisor and professors
to be sure). For example, some classes require conducting
research on information networks or the Internet. Other
classes may require completing assignments with specific
software - ranging from common word processing to more
specialized software for music and graphic arts.
There are several computer labs on campus. The
computer labs are located in academic buildings as well as
residence halls. The computer labs contain computer workstations
with high speed Internet access, web browsers, CD/DVD burner
drives, MS Office software, various curriculum software and
B&W laser printers. Click
here to view specific information regarding the computer labs.
In theory, it is possible to complete
your education at Otterbein without owning a computer.
In practice, many students elect to have their own
personal computer. Below is a table listing some of
the pros and cons of lab and personal computers.
| |
Lab Computers |
Personal Computers |
| Cost |
Free. |
Depending on the features a new computer can
cost between $500 and $3,000. |
| Availability |
Generally available; on occasion, labs operate
at 100% capacity and you may have to wait or go
elsewhere to locate a free workstation. |
Always available. |
| Schedule |
Labs are typically open from early morning to
late at night, Monday through Thursday, with limited
hours on Friday through Sunday. Consult
the lab schedules for the exact times. |
Always available. |
| Convenience |
Requires working away from your residence hall
room or home. |
Highly convenient. |
| Software |
Free; lab computers contain all of the software
necessary to complete assignments.
You may not install software of any kind on
lab computers. |
Contain only the software that you provide;
even with academic discounted software, replicating
a lab computer can be costly.
You are free to install any software on your
computer (assuming you have a valid license to
do so). |
| Hardware |
Labs are well equipped and provide hardware such as
flatbed scanners, CD/DVD burners and laser printing. |
Contain only the hardware that you provide. |
| Security |
There is no worry about losing a computer. |
As with all valuables you bring to campus, there is
a risk of theft. If you bring a computer, make sure it
is covered under a homeowner's or renter's policy (check
with your insurance agent to see about a separate rider
if the regular policy does not cover computers). |
| Maintenance |
The Department of Information Technology maintains
the lab computers. |
Otterbein provides a Student Help Desk located in the
Campus Center next to Quiznos or 614-823-1060. We will
troubleshoot and maintain network connectivity for students
who reside on campus and are hard-wired into the Otterbein
Network. We will further assist these students who have
problems with viruses or spyware that compromised their
computers. Students must provide their own software they
purchased with the computer as we will not re-install
any software that is corrupted unless it belongs to the
student. This walk-in service is free and does not include
any hardware repairs. For off-campus students, we can
provide you with general assessments and recommendations,
however the ultimate responsibility for keeping your computer
running is yours. We encourage all students to back up
their computer data regularly. |
| Other Considerations |
Not ideal if you prefer working in the privacy
of your residence hall room or home. On the other
hand, the social nature of the computer labs
provide a great way to interact with your classmates.
If you are working in a lab late at night you may have
to walk across campus. If personal safety is a concern,
contact
campus security (823-1222) and request an escort. |
Notebook computers provide great portability.
You can use them in class for taking notes, etc.
Ideal if you prefer working in the privacy of
your residence hall room or home.
If you are working late at night having a personal
computer eliminates the need to walk across campus
from a lab. |
And the second
most popular question we receive from incoming students
is...
 Windows
PC or Mac?
Either technology will work. Students
considering programs in the visual arts may want to
look at Macs.
In short, the decisions are yours to make. If you have
any questions, though, please don't hesitate to contact
the Department of Information & Technology Services.
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