via Wes [HtP] - Schools need servers, not PCs

A growing number of technologists and educators think they know a cheaper and more effective way to get computers into the classroom. Instead of individual PCs, they argue, schools should look into client-server architectures, perhaps even using handhelds for the client side.

Interesting synergy. Yesterday at work I was attending the Information Strategy and Advisory Group (ISAG) - a high-level committee of the University. This particular meeting was notable because there was a preliminary report on the evaluation of the Millennium Laptop Initiative pilot scheme. I can't divulge the contents of the extensive report that was tabled at the meeting. Suffice to say that it was an in-depth report and an interesting read. If/when the results are made available for public consumption via the web I'll provide a link.

FWIW, I am not convinced that equipping all students with a high-spec PC laptop is the most cost-effective way of delivering IT support to all students. There will be situations where it's the most appropriate technology but I hope that the University will consider alternatives such as the client-server model suggested by the EE Times article.

If there are any of my students reading this I'd be interested in their comments and, in particular, the pros and cons of requiring students to have a standardised laptop PC.

No doubt I'll return to this pilot/initiative as it unfolds.