Body
Questions
- Is IT still going to support Windows and Windows software for teaching and research?
- Will my existing Windows computers used for research and teaching be removed?
- How can my students access Windows-only software from their MacBook?
- What software can students install on their own laptops?
- Is there software support or training available for students?
- How do I report a technology issue or request support?
- When can I request the purchase of computers or technology for my class or research?
- When can I request the purchase of software for my class or research?
- I've heard computer labs referred to by different names — what do they all mean?
- I use a Windows computer — how can I see what my students will experience on a Mac?
- Will the files my students submit from their Macs open on my Windows computer?
Environment
This article applies to Bowdoin faculty, lab instructors, and staff who work alongside students using the Digital Excellence Commitment (DExC) technology program. It addresses common questions about Windows and virtual lab support, software availability, and IT purchasing processes.
Resolution
Computer Labs and Virtual Labs
I've heard computer labs referred to by different names. What do they all mean?
There are a variety of labs on campus that go by different names. Definitions for each space, along with examples, have been drafted for reference and are available from the Service Desk.
Is IT still going to support Windows and Windows software for learning and teaching?
Yes. IT continues to support both the Windows operating system and Windows-based software for learning and teaching. While students are provided Apple laptops running macOS, IT maintains a Windows virtual computer environment accessible by students, faculty, and staff both on and off campus.
Are my existing Windows computers used for teaching and research going to be removed?
No. Existing Windows computers used in research and teaching will remain in place.
I use a Windows computer. How can I see what my students will experience on a Mac?
There is no need to switch away from Windows unless you would like to. MacBook Pro loaners are available from IT and can be borrowed to experience the student setup firsthand. Contact the Service Desk to request a loaner.
Software Support
The software I use also has a Mac version. Will the files my students submit open on my computer?
In most cases, yes. Software available in both macOS and Windows — such as MATLAB, Mathematica, SPSS, and Microsoft Office — typically has feature parity across platforms, meaning the same functions are available in both environments. Some software, such as NVivo, has versions for both operating systems but may lack certain features on one platform. For questions about specific applications, contact your Academic Technology Liaison or the Service Desk.
I use software only available on Windows. How can students access it from their laptops?
Software previously installed on Windows lab machines for student use is available in the virtual computer lab, including applications such as ArcGIS. A knowledge base article is available with a complete list of software installed in the virtual environment — contact the Service Desk for the link.
I used to test or prep laptops in advance of class. How do I prepare student laptops now?
Software that was available on public lab machines or in laptop carts is mostly available for students to install on their own laptops via Self Service (Jamf). Using this standardized approach means software installs the same way on every device, making support and updates easier to manage. Because some software may take time to install, it is recommended that you let students know what they will need before the first use in class. Students can receive walk-in help at the Tech Hub if installation issues arise.
What software can students install on their own laptops?
The DExC program has expanded access to several widely used software titles:
- MATLAB — licensed for all student, faculty, and staff use for teaching, learning, and research, including access to MATLAB Online and all 90+ toolboxes from MathWorks.
- Adobe Creative Cloud — available for students and faculty to install on Bowdoin-issued laptops, including Photoshop, InDesign, Premiere, and nearly all Adobe products.
- Mathematica — available for installation on all student and faculty Bowdoin-issued laptops.
Is there software support or training available for students?
Yes. Students and faculty are fully supported by IT. Help is available through the Service Desk and, for specific applications, from IT staff with relevant expertise. Through the DExC program, LinkedIn Learning is licensed for use by all faculty, students, and staff. LinkedIn Learning provides access to thousands of video courses covering software, macOS, iPadOS, and more.
Getting Support
I'm experiencing issues with software or technology — should I tell anyone?
Yes. If you are experiencing an issue with software installation, a classroom, the virtual lab, or anything else related to technology at Bowdoin, please contact IT. This knowledge base has hundreds of how-to and troubleshooting articles. You can also submit a ticket online through the Service Catalog, or walk in to the Tech Hub in Smith Union for in-person help.
Can I just contact the same person in IT who helped me last time?
We understand the impulse, but we recommend contacting the Service Desk rather than reaching out to an individual staff member directly. Using the Service Desk ensures your request is routed to the right person or team, worked on in the order received, and not lost if the individual you contact happens to be unavailable. To reach the Service Desk, call (207) 725-3030, chat with Bowdoin Bot on any KB page, or submit a request through the Service Catalog.
Purchasing Computers, Technology, and Software
When can I request the purchase of computers or other technology for my class or research?
Technology purchases generally follow the college's fiscal cycle. Requests for new computers or technology — whether for a teaching lab, research lab, or individual use — are made through the department's technology budget process in late fall or early winter. Requests can also be submitted through IT's Computer Allocation Program (CAP) process, which runs at the same time. Only one submission is needed. Requests are reviewed by representatives from Academic Affairs and IT, and approved purchases are made at the start of the next fiscal year, which begins July 1. Technology intended solely for research may be purchased out-of-cycle if research or departmental funds are used. All technology must be purchased through Information Technology regardless of timing or funding source. For more on the CAP process, see Information about the Computer Allocation Program (CAP) Process in the Related Articles section.
When can I request the purchase of software for my class or research?
Software purchases follow the same fiscal cycle as hardware. Requests for new software for teaching, learning, or research are submitted through the department's technology budget process in late fall or early winter, reviewed by Academic Affairs, and approved purchases are made at the start of the next fiscal year on July 1. Software for research only may be purchased out-of-cycle using research or departmental funds. All software must be purchased through IT, which can identify the correct license type and ensure the best purchase price.
Additional Help
If you need further assistance, you have several options:
- Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
- Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
- In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
- Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.