Education & Human Development

Laptops in Education

Laptops in Education | Letter from Dean Cobb | Teacher Education Faculty
Laptop Specifications | FAQs | Contacts | The College & Technology

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What if I already have a laptop and it is not a Macintosh?

A. Students entering teacher education programs with the College of Education and Human Development in the fall of 2005 will need to obtain the designated hardware and software prior to the Fall 2006 semester. Students entering these programs in Fall 2006 must have an Apple MacBook as first-year students. Faculty members emphasize the importance of having this important tool in order to prepare for teacher candidacy.

Q. How does the policy affect transfer students and those being readmitted?

A. Beginning Fall 2006, students who transfer from outside the University of Maine, change colleges, or apply for readmission to the Elementary, Secondary, Early Childhood Education, and Kinesiology and Physical Education Teaching Option will be required to own a laptop computer with the minimum hardware and software requirements at the time of their enrollment.

Q. How does the policy affect students enrolled in another UMaine college in a major leading to teacher certification, such as Music Education or Art Education, or a minor in Education?

A. The laptop policy applies only to students enrolled in the College of Education and Human Development in programs leading to teacher certification.

Q. Why Macintosh?

A. Apple software is specifically designed for educational use and innovation, and Macintosh computers are less vulnerable to viruses. In addition, Macintosh hardware and software is the standard system throughout the College and among its faculty and staff.

Q. What if I have a Macintosh laptop that meets or exceeds the College's hardware specifications, such as a PowerBook?

A. The Computer Connection offers a "software only" bundle or individual software titles for people who already have an appropriate Macintosh laptop.

Q. What is the cost of the designated hardware and software?

A. As of August, 2007 Computer Connection is offering the hardware package at a discounted price of $1609. The required software totals $238.35, and an optional (but recommended) notebook backpack costs $29. An optional 3yr damage protection plan can be purchased for $205.

Q. How can I afford to purchase a laptop?

A. Low-interest loans are available from the University of Maine Credit Union. In addition, as a required component of the teacher education program, purchase will qualify as a "cost of attendance." Various loan options exist through the Office of Student Financial Aid. Again, the Computer Connection discount is substantial.

Q. What can I do about insuring my laptop?

A. Many homeowners' policies include provisions for insuring personal property of students who are away at school. Check with your insurance agent for details.

Q. If I have problems with my computer, where do I find help?

A. The Apple package includes a three-year maintenance plan. Technical support is available from UMaine's Information Technologies division, which includes a Help Center and computer repair services. If the problem warrants, the machine can be sent to a regional Apple repair center.

Q. If I am a student in the College of Education and Human Development in a non-certification program, can I take advantage of the Apple MacBook purchase discount?

A. Yes. Computer Connection is offering the discount to any student – undergraduate or graduate – enrolled in any program in the College.

Q. How do I reach the Computer Connection?

A. The Computer Connection is located in the Memorial Union. The phone number is 207-581-2580, toll-free 1-800-261-5543.

Other Helpful Contacts
Computer Connection: 207-581-2510
Instructional Technologies: 207-581-1602
IT Help Center: 207-581-2506
University of Maine Credit Union: 800-696-8628 or www.ucu.maine.edu/about.html