Incomplete service
University looks to expand Internet

By Julie Ann Matonis
Staff Reporter

The technology is not yet available that will deal with TCU’s specific needs for off-campus computer users said David Edmondson, assistant provost for Information Services.

He said he is looking for technology that would allow students at home or abroad to be able to dial a local number and gain access to TCU resources.

“We want more than just Internet access,” Edmondson said. “We want secured access to TCU resources.”

Edmondson said continuous access to technology is a concern that has been explored by the administration and students.

As part of its final report to the Commission on the Future of TCU, the Technology Task Force recommended computer and network resources be available so learning can occur at any time in any place.

Last semester, the Student Government Association passed a resolution supporting endeavors to provide the same resources to on-campus and off-campus users.

The resolution requested that the project be completed by fall 2001, but Edmondson said that date is questionable.

“I would like this service to be available by then, but I cannot promise anything at this time,” Edmondson said.

According to an article in The Chronicle for Higher Education, computer officials are worried about the vast disparity between the technology available to students in wired residence halls and the students and faculty living off campus.

Edmondson said that once he determines what type of technology to use, he will work with the administration to examine funding options for the project.

“I first have to find a vendor that can provide global access to the TCU network resources and then work with our administration regarding pricing options,” he said.

Kaylan Minor, SGA secretary and former chairwoman of the Commuter Concerns Committee, said she worked with Edmondson on the resolution, though he was already pursuing solutions.

“Information Services is working with us, which is what the administration should do,” Minor said. “The resources on campus are great, but we want something that will make resources more available for off-campus students.”

Edmondson said most universities are just providing Internet access to students and faculty. Many institutions also rely on modem pools, which are modems that people can dial into and then gain access to the university network.

Faculty and staff currently have limited off-campus network access with 45 phone lines, but this applies only to the Fort Worth area.

Chris Daugherty, a junior finance major, said there is greater reason to accommodate students technologically as the university puts more resources online.

“It’s a continuous process — never stop learning and never stop adapting technology,” Daugherty said. “There’s always room for improvement, but I’m pleased with the direction of implementing technology.”

Edmondson said the best thing for students to do right now is shop around for Internet providers.

Minor, however, said paying for Internet service is sometimes not possible.

“It’s hard to afford an extra $25 to $30 a month for Internet access,” she said.

Julie Ann Matonis
j.a.matonis@student.tcu.edu