Do You Need an Expensive Laptop For College?
There are two things we all know about laptops. The first is that they are an essential part of life. If we aren’t using them for our work and important correspondence, we’re using them for entertainment and social media. The second is that despite being so essential and widespread, they aren’t cheap. A high-end new model can cost hundreds of dollars. That can be a massive obstacle for anyone looking to return to school – either at college or through online learning. You’ve figured out a way to pay for the tuition and budget for student life, and now there’s a massive extra expense to deal with. How essential is it to have a laptop, and is it possible to get a free laptop for students?
Why Is It So Important To Have A Laptop At College?
1) Writing your papers and assignments
There are specific requirements for academic papers – beyond having content strong enough for a passing grade. Students have to be careful to format everything correctly with the right fonts, spacing, and references. It’s much easier to do this with a word processor than handwriting, not that any college would accept handwritten assignments anymore. A laptop may also be essential if the college insists on online submissions rather than printed papers. Students could do all this on a library computer, but it’s not as convenient or reliable.
2) Compiling all your notes
Note-taking is just as essential. Without detailed class notes and research from independent learning, those essay papers will be a little thin. Many students will take laptops into class to type notes throughout the lecture. There are mixed options on the effectiveness of this, but it’s highly common. You also need somewhere organized and accessible to read your notes and keep track of all your work. Digital file management helps free up space compared to color-coded notebooks on shelves. There’s also the option of file sharing with other students through Google Docs.
3) Accessing course content
In the days before laptops in class, students had to purchase a massive library of books for their essential reading. Then, there were all the printed files and class notes each week. It was a lot. Unless you’re studying literature or other humanities, you’ll probably find most course content online. These online portals are also essential for finding out about changes to timetables, reading faculty news, and enrolling in specific programs.
4) Staying in touch with tutors and classmates
Finally, there’s the simple fact that being online gives you greater access to all of the important people in your college life. Hopefully, you can still take the time to see tutors face-to-face in physical offices after classes in real lecture halls. Yet, many will prefer to correspond through video calls and emails. Online messaging systems and social media are also great ways to set up study groups and find out about social events.
It should also be noted here that some faculties will insist on students having their own laptops. This may seem harsh and potentially discriminatory against those from low-income backgrounds or mature students. Yet, the nature of modern STEM classes can make online content, software downloads, and other typed note-taking essential. The necessity of this tech is why so many students seek out free college laptops. Here’s what you might be able to get.
Getting An Affordable College Laptop
Now, you might say that this is all well and good for those with student loans and parents financing a college education. But what about those going it alone in later life and struggling with the tuition costs, let alone the extra tech? Well, the great news for anyone in this position is that there are schemes to make laptops accessible. The level of financial support will vary from school to school. So, it pays to ask faculties directly and see what you can get. It might feel cheeky to ask right off the bat, but if you don’t, you could miss out. Some colleges will go as far as to provide laptops for free for those who qualify. You’ll have to go through means testing, but you could end up with some decent tech as a result. Others can provide partial support to help with laptop purchases. Also, remember that there are alternative outlets for discount tech. It might not be the fastest or most trendy model around, but it will cover the basics. Refurbished models are perfect for this and a green way to make use of old devices. Check out support services like EDsmart for more help.
Getting An Affordable College Laptop For Online College Distance Learning
Laptops and internet access are even more of a necessity for those who work with online distance learning courses. The reasons are the same as those above. However, they are enhanced because of the nature of remote learning. You have to write and submit your assignments online because you’re not on campus. Almost all of the course content and reading will be on a portal online – unless you have to buy physical books to read. All your peers and tutors are on the other end of emails, video calls, and WhatsApp groups.
This is why it’s so important to look into ways to get laptops for online learning at a good price. Check out the ones that offer the course you want and provide support for the tech and resources to complete your studies. Again, some may have a free laptop for students while others offer discounts. That’s why it is vital to do your research and find the best deal to get the best online college experience.
Don’t Give Up On College Because Of Laptop Costs
You can’t get through a college course, especially distance learning, without a reliable personal laptop. Don’t get discouraged if they are beyond your price range right now. Talk to the colleges you’re interested in and see what they can do to help. If one of your top three options says they’ll happily provide you with one to get you set up, that’s a massive weight off your mind. Even if they can provide partial support, that can make a big difference. Research the support available, look at refurbished models, and see how accessible distance learning can be.