(For more information on the following story, contact Melody Alexander at [email protected] or (765) 285-5239.)
FAR EAST UNIVERSITIES LACK ADEQUATE COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY
MUNCIE, Ind. -- Universities in the Far East are struggling to keep up with advances in computer technology, says a Ball State University study.
A survey of five universities in China, Japan and South Korea found that in many cases, computers are just being introduced into the college classroom, said Melody Alexander, who teaches business education and office administration.
"It is imperative that universities attempt to obtain the newest and best technological knowledge or be left behind in an increasingly competitive business world," she said. "As the cost of technology continues to decline, universities worldwide must learn to use computers effectively."
The poll of 64 departments representing more than 1,000 faculty members investigated how university department heads were funding their purchases and what was still needed.
The survey found:
*Pentium computers were the most frequently used technology, but the total number of computers available for faculty and students was far less than needed.
*Most funding came from university and department monies, but nearly a third of the respondents used their personal funds for technology purchases.
*Most respondents reported an increasing need for more hardware, software and computer upgrades.
The number of Ball State students studying abroad has doubled since 1993 as individuals take advantage of opportunities to travel to expand their cultural and education awareness, she said.
"Educational institutions around the world are becoming involved in faculty and student exchange programs," Alexander said. "This knowledge can help us understand the technological abilities of international students and faculty.
"International technology advancements or lack of them are topics that should be included in our classrooms and training sessions," she said. "Our ability to prepare and help those traveling abroad is essential."
(NOTE TO EDITORS: For more information, contact Alexander at [email protected] or (765) 285-5239. For more stories visit the Ball State University News Center at www.bsu.edu/news on the World Wide Web.)
Marc Ransford
11/18/99
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