Computing Services set back the clock on repairs
URGENTLY NEEDED computer renovations are being delayed indefinitely as Computing Services fail to supply the required funding.
The troubled department initially promised upgrades of computers in Langwith and the J.B. Morrell Library last summer. However students have had to continue using facilities which a nouse survey has shown to be significantly faulty.
Out of 270 computers examined, over half were extremely slow, especially regarding sign-in and log-out times. Other findings involve faulty mice and “groaning” computers in Wentworth.
However the most damning findings have come from the Langwith computer room. Here 25% of all computers were completely non-operational. Many were found to be in that condition for days, and all computers suffered significant slow-down. Folders took 30 seconds to open while a simple Microsoft Word file took over a minute.
First year Langwith student, Samuel Hendrie-Williams said “They really are in appalling conditions. For us students who can’t afford our own laptop, we rely on the provided computers for work and for essential communication. When they don’t work, which often happens, we are completely stuck.”
For James students it is even worse; they are not even provided with a computer room and have to travel to Goodricke or Wentworth which are already incredibly busy. On a visit to Goodricke there was a queue of a dozen people waiting to use the facilities.
The only computer rooms that performed well in the study are located in Alcuin, prompting yet more calls about its perceived favoured position above the other colleges in terms of funding.
It is also home to the only colour scanner on the whole of the campus. Alcuin computers were also found to be the fastest and in the best shape, with little or no slow-down.
Alcuin students also have a pick of nearly 100 machines, double the number in Langwith. More worryingly, at the time the survey was carried out barely a third were in use, while lengthy queues continue in the under stocked rooms of the library and Goodricke College.
Computing Services have responded to the criticisms, citing funding shortfalls. Langwith is the only college to receive cash for improvements. This was intended for last summer, but has been delayed. It is believed that Langwith should have these new facilities by the summer term.
As computers are becoming increasingly central to student life, and preparation for the working world, it is imperative that the University does not lag behind.
A James student has commented that it is “unjust to deny a good service to those who are unable to afford their own computer facilities.”
“Under funding needs to be addressed, in order to provide equal opportunities throughout the university”
