Platform+Discussion

10-15-08 [|Intel-based Mac Computers in Education: Research and Findings] (Lorna Hardin)

Rob Holt's reply, especially the last paragraph, (dated July 4, 2008 at 11:17am) has some great advice. Carol Wierzba 10-13-08 [|Mac vs. PC in Schools] (Shelly Sorenson)

10-3-08 (updated on 10-27) I was interested in finding out what platforms other Michigan districts are currently using in their schools. I contacted districts through the library listserv I belong to - the results can be found at http://www.trenton.k12.mi.us/node/1357. Check there for complete list of comments from various districts.

Here's a synopsis of the responses/comments:
 * 51 districts responded - 31 are Windows exclusively and 19 are dual platform (Windows and Macs). No one is exclusively Mac
 * 2 of the dual platform schools commented that they used Macs almost exclusively for instruction.
 * 7 of the dual platform schools commented that they used Macs for TV and video production, multimedia and graphic design.
 * Reasons stated for using PCs: Used in business world, cheaper to buy, cheaper software, more software, longer warranties available, works better with Zangle.
 * Reasons stated for using Macs: Last longer, fewer problems, easier for students to use, less student tampering, good company to deal with, cheaper to operate over the long term, 2 computers for the price of one (Macs can run Windows), using a Mac server saves thousands of dollars over using Novell.
 * Reasons stated for being single platform: Better for techs - only have to know one platform, don't have to keep spare parts for 2 different platforms.
 * Reasons stated for being dual platform: Teachers can use whatever platform is best suited to the instructional application, students are exposed to and learn to use both systems.

(Sue Yee)