Laptop vs. Desktop
CDM strongly recommends the purchase of a Tablet PC or laptop computer because of the obvious conveniences of portability. Our students have found that the ink feature and portability of the Tablet PC makes it an excellent note taking tool for the classroom. Preclinical lab has network (both wired and wireless) access for laptops (Virtechs - a sample online lab course). However, laptops are more expensive (about $500 more for similar specs.) and have a limit to its upgrading potential. With maneuverability also comes vulnerability to damage, and laptops are not cheap to fix. It would be wise to purchase an extended warranty (3 years) with a laptop.
Students have found that the Tablet PC offers the following advantages over a traditional laptop:
1. Integrate information from many different types of learning resources directly into your handwritten lecture notes.
2. Easily edit and organize all of your handwritten notes and other course material, in one convenient machine the size of a small text book.
3. Easily utilize a variety of tools to annotate - colored pens, highlighters, copy & paste, etc. all
with a pen tool.
Macintosh vs PC
The choice of platform is essentially a matter of personal preference. If you are already familiar with one platform, there is no particular reason to switch, and both platforms are supported by the University technical support teams.
*Note* It is recommended that students purchase a 2nd battery as many classrooms have a limited number of power outlets.
Hardware Specifications
Recommendations on various computer confiriguration can be found on the CUbhis website http://cumc.columbia.edu/it/getting_started/comppurch.html
Software
|
