As pen and paper evolved into typewriters, typewriters evolved into desktop computers, and desktop computers evolved into laptops, college students have experienced drastic changes in the way they learn.
The next phase in academic technology brings tablet computers, note management devices and gadgets geared toward social life.
Leading this evolution is Apple’s iPad, released in April. The iPad and other tablet computers combine books, periodicals, movies, music and web browsing into a lighter, more compact format.
“The growth in the ’90s we saw with laptops could be seen with iPads,” said Andre Brown, a sophomore product design major who works at the University Information Services Help Desk in McKenzie Hall. “I think iPads are the future of computing in the classroom.”
The Duck Store has seen a high level of curiosity from customers interested in the iPad.
“The big thing that’s been popular on campus has been the iPad,” said Megan Freeman, Digital Duck staff member. “It’s changed the way we learn and helps cut down the amount of books students will be carrying around.”
The Duck Store has also received a lot of interest in the newest version of the iPod Touch.
The music player features music, movies, video recording and editing, web browsing, and the most talked about new video calling feature, FaceTime.
“FaceTime allows you to communicate with friends and family that are far away,” Freeman said. “It allows you to communicate in a fun and new way.”
Though these technical toys carry quite a few fun features, others are designed specifically for learning purposes.
A new software application called Evernote allows users to capture notes and photos on their smart phones in an easy-to-use format and then transfer them to the computer.
“Evernote is easy note management,” said Fabian Norman, a Lane Community College electronic engineering major working at the Help Desk.
Another product producing a buzz around campus is Chill Pill speakers, which are amazingly compact speakers in a pill-like form.
The speakers are perfect for students looking to have portable, high-quality sound.
The Duck Store recently started carrying thumb drives that work as bottle cap openers, representing the perfect marriage between a college student’s academic responsibilities and social life.
Another product geared more toward social life is the new Canon PowerShot SC 1300.
Going with the theme of electronics, Canon’s latest PowerShot is more compact and produces higher resolution photos.
“The camera is easy to use and also affordable,” Freeman said. “It gives students the opportunity to document their life at the U of O.”
Before buying any products for the upcoming school year, it’s important to do the research.
Many students unknowingly spend money on products that are poorly made or unnecessary for their intended use.
Business students should consider buying PCs, which are compatible with the business school’s software, and journalism students should consider Macs for the same reason.
“Make sure to check with your individual academic departments,” Spencer Smith, Help Desk service manager, said.
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