Information Technology (IT) Bond
Technology Improvements on Campus
In late May, UMass Dartmouth received authorization for $910,000 in Information
Technology (IT) Bond monies. This IT Bond initiative provided UMass Dartmouth
with a unique opportunity to improve the state of technology on campus.
In deciding on projects for implementation, we focused on areas that would
provide the most benefit to the most people in the UMD academic community, and
the following projects were selected:
- Technology in the Lecture Halls
In accordance with a Computer Users Committee recommendation concerning technology
classrooms, 10 lecture-hall type classrooms were equipped with a ceiling mounted
projection system, screen, sound system, document camera, VCR, DVD player,
personal computer, wireless keyboard, and two wireless microphones.
- Expanded Reference Area/Instruction Suite
21 workstations were added to the Library Reference area. These can be temporarily
partitioned from the rest of the area and used as one, or possibly two, classrooms.
This enables the Reference/instruction librarians to present multiple concurrent
instruction sessions, and provide "on-demand" instruction.
- Wireless on Campus
A major step was taken to implement wireless networking at UMass Dartmouth.
Access points were installed around the inner ring of the campus, in common
areas including the quad, the amphitheater, Campus Center, Library, academic
buildings, and the technology lecture halls referred to above.
- Mobile Computing Lending Program (MCLP)
Laptops, handhelds and digital projectors were acquired for lending to the
UMD community. LSIRT will run a pilot project, called the Mobile Computing
Lending Program, to enhance the UMD community's access to computer and network
resources.
- Software Licenses
Licenses were acquired for a number of software packages, as recommended by
the Computer Users Committee.
- Library Encompass Software System
The Encompass software will enhance the use of the Library's Voyager system
by providing a multi-protocol gateway that allows users to search multiple
information resources through a single web-based interface.
- Directory Service/Authentication Software/Hardware
The acquisition of SunONE Directory Server (LDAP) will allow faculty, staff
and students to: obtain 'telephone-like' campus information on faculty and
staff, and appropriate student information; authenticate network users as
members of the UMD Community; and utilize a common username/password for e-mail,
library system, calendaring, etc.
- ADA Compliant Sound System in the Library
Browsing Area
- ADA Workstation and Scanner in the Library Reference
Area
- Digital Microfilm Reader/Printer Scanner
- Digital Photographics Equipment
- Enterprise File Sharing
- Enterprise Backup
Some projects are fully implemented while others will be implemented over the course
of the academic year. For more details on these IT Bond projects, including target
dates, please browse the links above and at left.
The IT Bond Coordinating Committee and other members of the new Library Services, Information Resources and Technology Division worked very hard and very well together over the summer to define and implement the IT Bond initiative. Their efforts are much appreciated!
