Oakland University - News Archive - Loaner Laptops Now Available, in Response to Student Requests

Educational Resource Laboratory (ERL) launched the PAL program in early September as a result of student surveys which were done last year. ERL Coordinator, Barbara Begin-Campbell says the surveys were conducted to get feedback about ways to make the ERL and Pawley Hall more student-friendly. She says, "It was brought to our attention that at times, the ERL is crowded and there is no place to sit. Students wondered if it would be possible to take laptops outside of the ERL to sit on the couches in the hall or perhaps in another classroom to work. Up until now, our laptops could be checked out for use only within the ERL."

Currently, there are eight laptop computers for loan in the PAL program. The ERL re-commissioned some of its older laptops by updating the operating systems and ensuring the computers were able to perform basic word processing and internet-access tasks.

Begin-Campbell says it is early in the program, but, so far, things appear to be working smoothly. PAL computers have been used by a few students already, and they have been returned promptly. If the program continues to be successful, it may be expanded in the future. She says, "We've received a number of comments from students and faculty - all positive. Student like the freedom of being able to work in other spaces besides the ERL. Also, there are times when faculty have requested that students have a laptop for use during class, and this helps those who might not own a personal laptop."