So, When Did U Missouri Become An Apple Retail Store?
"Effective Fall 2009, students majoring in Journalism at Missouri are required to have either an iPod Touch (the minimum requirement) or iPhone to allow for the delivery of freshman-orientation information as well as course material," reads a bulletin on the university's Web page listing computer requirements for incoming students. "Students will electronically download such material to either of those devices from iTunes University, a no-cost component of the iTunes Store."
The university advises students who do not already own an iPhone or an iPod Touch to coordinate buying one through the University of Missouri's computer store, TigerTech.
"Yes, the device is a music player, but it is much, much more," reads the university's bulletin. "TigerTech estimates that 90 percent of Missouri students have iPods. We are trying to take advantage of that as a means to deliver course content. The video capability of the iPod Touch and iPhone makes this an ideal delivery platform and gives students a device on which they can review lectures and other course material while on the go or working out. Students with documented need (as determined through the FAFSA filing process) may include the cost in financial aid packages because it is required."
The journalism school at the university also requires students to have wireless-configured laptops with Microsoft Office installed.
And by the way, says the University, if you have a Windows computer, you may want to consider switching.
For Windows users, reads the bulletin's frequently asked questions section, "it's one we do not recommend unless you plan to make a career of computer-assisted reporting. By the time you purchase photo, audio and video software for a PC, you probably will have spent more than you would if buying a comparable Apple Computer. Buy a PC if you prefer to do so, but make sure it is wireless and has Microsoft Office. Almost 100 percent of last year's freshmen chose Apple computers."
Most educational institutions are in the heat of the technology buying season right now, and many are telling ChannelWeb they want their students to have as much choice as possible—the 21st century campus wants their students plugged in, high tech and with customizable options, right? Maybe it's easier if institutions decide for them, Mizzou seems to think.