Evolution of a laptop University: A case study

McVay, G., Snyder, K. & Graetz, K. (2005). Evolution of a laptop university: a case study.British Journal of Educational Technology, 36 (3), 513-524. Retrieved October 10, 2010, from CAUL Wiley-Blackwell database.


This article looks at a case study of the Winona State University laptop program and how this relatively small university became one of the leaders in information communication technology in the USA. The paper looks at how this program was rolled out in three stages over six years. The University undertook the program with seven principles of good practice for undergraduate study, these included things like providing access to ICT services, giving students the best opportunity to use the latest technology in their studies and allowing the students to have an unfettered opportunity to actively learn outside the classrooms. Through this program after the third year of operation new students were required to lease a new laptop through the university and all staff were provided one. There was also a major overhaul of the universities wireless services and support infrastructure. However there were some problems with this program with surveyed students reporting they could have purchased the hardware and software else were at a cheaper cost, as well there was a high percentage of students reporting that apart from using their laptops to email and access course information they were underutilised, this criticism mainly came from particular courses. On the whole this program looks to be successful with greater benefits to the students  than the upfront cost.  Although it is important for staff to receive training to provide relevant material and support to fully utilise this technology. The program is currently being expanded to move beyond laptops to move to the new technology of tablets or iBooks.