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Reaction over free tablets
THE UNIVERSITY of Western Sydney is pushing ahead with its move to hand out iPads to new students this year saying it is part of a curriculum renewal strategy over the next four years.
About 11,000 tablets will be distributed in what has been described as one of the largest and most innovative rollouts at an Australian university. Staff will also receive one of the popular devices.
Whilst critics have attacked the giveaway, Professor Kerri-Lee Krause, UWS pro vicechancellor( education), said the initiative is far from a recruitment tactic.
“ The introduction of mobile devices like iPads is part of our broader investment in wireless networks, improved computer labs, IT-enhanced learning spaces and other IT infrastructure,” Krause said.
“ The iPad will be a way for students to access more online and web-streamed material from wherever they are.”
A recent UWS survey of students’ technology use revealed that 77 per cent accessed computer labs on campus, 71 per cent owned a computer, and 45 per cent of students also reported they would like to use an iPad or tablet device for learning.
“ The funding for the iPad rollout is part of a strategic decision to redirect funds previously used on building projects into IT development,” Krause said.
Students will be allowed to keep their iPad, however, those who withdraw their enrolment or otherwise do not continue their studies after the census date must return their device. Krause said this overall IT investment amounts to about $ 35 million over three years.
A spokesperson for UWS said the university’ s wireless network is being upgraded and tested to cope with the expected higher levels of wireless usage due to the iPad rollout.
Last December, the National Tertiary Education Union condemned the university for the initiative saying that“ courses should come before iPads”. The NSW secretary, Genevieve Kelly, said UWS cut language courses in Arabic, Italian and Spanish but had the resources to offer free iPads to students and staff, at an estimated cost of at least $ 3 million.
“ Giving every student and staff member a fourthgeneration iPad comes at an unacceptable price. UWS is taking a sledgehammer to courses and staff. Technology, however trendy, is nothing without content,” Kelly said.
She said UWS has abolished the language courses, cutting four full-time positions and numerous casual jobs.
Despite the criticism, Krause said the aim now is to balance ongoing investment in physical infrastructure with a focus on investment in wireless networks. ■
UWS says giving new students an iPad is part of a long-term technology plan and not an enrolment gimmick. Antonia Maiolo reports
8 | February 2013