JMU IS 15TH IN NATION AMONG 'MOST CONNECTED CAMPUSES'
From: Media Relations
October 2, 2003
HARRISONBURG — James Madison University is ranked 15th in the nation in a new survey by the Princeton Review of "The Top 25 Most Connected Campuses," identifying colleges with cutting-edge technology for its students.
The Princeton Review, a New York City-based company involved in test-preparation courses, admission and education services, combined responses from more than 100,000 college students and information from campus administrators to devise its list. Criteria included student-to-computer ratios, wireless access on campus, computer science curricula and student comments.
"We have focused on providing innovative and quality technology services for our students, faculty and staff," said Dale B. Hulvey, assistant vice president for information technology, "and we are pleased to be recognized for these efforts by the Princeton Review."
JMU provides and supports computing and electronic communication services for students, faculty and staff through a variety of information technology resources, such as:
A high-speed data network that connects central computing systems and office desktops as well as on-campus residence halls and many nearby student apartment complexes. A wireless data network is available on campus with additional sites being developed.
JMU offers extensive programs in computer science, including master's degree programs in information security and in secure software engineering.
Upon enrollment or hiring to JMU, free electronic identification accounts for e-mail and other services, as well as free software programs for e-mail, Web browsers, anti-virus programs and the like.
Secure information systems through which students may apply for admission online, register for and coordinate class schedules, pay tuition, buy textbooks, check financial aid accounts and access academic progress information.
Students provide their own computers, but may purchase Dell and Apple computers at a discount at the JMU bookstore. JMU is an authorized Dell and Apple warranty repair center.
Multimedia equipment is available for students to borrow, including digital cameras, mini-DVD recorders and video-editing stations. Wireless laptop computers may be checked out of the library.
Technology-enhanced classrooms and more than 300 Dell and Apple computers in 12 computer labs for disciplines from music to the sciences; many departments also have discipline-specific computing facilities.
Web and "Blackboard" access for faculty to offer electronic gradebooks, student mailing list management and electronic testing and assessment.
Electronic "scan-sheet" testing, surveying and evaluation services.
A HelpDesk to answer computing questions and resolve software and hardware problems and malfunctions; and computing support for computer installation, training and use; hardware repairs; and technical advisories and alerts through a Web site and e-newsletter.
JMU streams live audio on its Web site for such events as commencement, lectures, athletics and concerts. The student-run radio station also streams its broadcasts online.
JMU and Hampton University (No. 9) were the only two Virginia institutions ranked in the top 25. Stevens Institute of Technology in New Jersey was the No. 1 connected college, followed by Wake Forest University and Georgia Tech.
For the complete list, visit the Web site at www.forbes.com/campus.
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