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Digital Literacy & Equity: Our Laptop Requirement for the PDS (2024-25)Digital literacy is a key theme woven across the PDS. You will learn about and with different technologies, tools, and literacies that will become part of your practice as a teacher. To ensure each of you has an equitable opportunity to learn in this area, we require you to have a laptop that meets the minimum requirements to take full advantage of learning activities*. |
Who needs a laptop?
Students entering the Professional Development Sequence (PDS) in the following teacher certification areas are required to have
a laptop:
- EC-6 ESL
- EC-6 ESL Bilingual
- Special Education
- Urban Teachers (UTUT)
- UTeach Fine Arts
Which laptop do I need?
You may use a Mac or Windows laptop, as long as it meets the following specifications. Chromebooks do not meet the requirement.
Minimum Specifications
- 8 GB
- memory
- 256 GB
- Apple: macOS Catalina or newer
- Windows: Windows 10 or newer
The Information Technology Office (ITO) provides support for Apple and Windows compatible computers and although any Apple or Windows laptop that meets the minimum specification will work, the MacBook Air is recommended.
Do I have to purchase a new laptop? You do not have to purchase a new laptop if you have one that meets the requirements. You may also be able to upgrade your current laptop to meet the requirements.
Should I buy the laptop early or at the start of the PDS? Some students choose to purchase the required laptop prior to the start of their PDS. Others prefer to use another computer until the start of their PDS approaches. The latter option gives students the advantage of purchasing the latest laptops. However, students who purchase the required laptop early will not be required to purchase a second laptop, even if the specifics of the requirement change.
Can I buy a tablet computer instead of a laptop to meet the requirement? The program steering committee is closely monitoring the changes in devices as they are released. Since tablets do not currently offer the full set of necessary features, a laptop is required.
Do I have to purchase at the UT Campus Computer Store? No, you may obtain a laptop that meets the requirements from any source you choose.
How can I insure against loss, theft or accidental damage? Warranties covering accidental damage are highly recommended. The AppleCare+ warranty covers accidental damage. For loss, theft and accidental damage coverage, you may want to contact The Worth Avenue Group. For complete details, please visit the following sites:
The AppleCare+: https://www.apple.com/support/products/mac.html
The Worth Avenue Group: https://www.worthavegroup.com/?_vsrefdom=ppc-google-brand&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI84is37zw4AIVCo1pCh3VqQ0WEAAYASAAEgIhsfD_BwE
Tech Support
What training is available for students and faculty? Program faculty will schedule a technology orientation for students at the beginning of the PDS. This orientation covers the hardware, software and other important items. Faculty can also schedule in-class training closer to the start of an assignment involving technology. Students can also visit the Service Desk with any additional questions. Faculty can receive technology integration support and schedule in-class training with the Office of Instructional Innovation.
What if the Service Desk is closed? All Apple laptops covered under the AppleCare warranty can be taken to an Apple store for support if the Service Desk is closed. In addition, students can call the AppleCare support team at 800-APL-CARE (800-275-2273). For any Windows devices, please visit your manufacturer's website for more information or see the ITS Help Desk (https://ut.service-now.com/sp?id=ut_bs_service_detail&sys_id=f8a2f29b0ff3960003d2e498b1050ed8) at FAC. You can contact them at 512-475-9400.
Is there equipment available for checkout? Yes. Cameras, tripods, and other peripherals are available for checkout from the Service Desk.
To whom can I address additional questions? Additional questions can be directed to the Service Desk.
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Information Technology Office
Service Desk SZB 439 Suite
Long Semester Hours
Monday – Thursday, 8 AM to 7 PM
Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM
Summer Hours
Monday - Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM
Closed on Weekends
Email the Help Desk at help@education.utexas.edu or call 512-471-4357 (HELP)
https://education.utexas.edu/about/deans-office-units/information-technology-office- hard drive space
- Apple: macOS Monterey
- Windows: Windows 11
Will an iPad or similar tablet meet the requirement?
iPads do not meet the requirement; they lack a physical keyboard, and mobile operating systems do not work well with some online learning tools.
Where should I buy a laptop?
You may purchase a laptop from the vendor of your choice. The Campus Computer Store and manufacturers such as Apple and Dell offer discounts for students.
What will I do with my laptop?
Digital learning is embedded courses and in targeted digital literacy activities throughout the PDS.
For more details, go to:
Where can I go for help?
- For a digital literacy activity or questions, contact Dr. Karen French at kdfrench@utexas.edu .
- For hardware troubleshooting or equipment checkout, email the ITO Help Desk at help@education.utexas.edu.
- For Canvas, Zoom, or email help, contact ITS at help@utexas.edu or 512-475-9400.
* Because the requirement is in place, cost will be included in your financial aid package from the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid. Visit Texas One Stop (https://onestop.utexas.edu) with questions or for more information.