Press Releases

October 3, 1997
New Technology Makes Computers a Way of Life at Southampton College

Contact: Jane Finalborgo, Joe Dionisio
(516) 287 8313
Fax: (516) 283 4081

Southampton, NY -- E-mail, multimedia, hardware, software, the Internet... it's not easy keeping pace with new computer technologies, but Southampton College of Long Island University has done just that.

As the 1997-98 school year begins, a major upgrade by the Academic Computing and Technology Department has made Southampton College a strong example of how technology has become essential to a college education.

"The number of students bringing computers to campus has increased dramatically, and computers are being incorporated in the curriculum more than ever," said Gene Tranchino, Associate Director of Academic Computing and Technology. "We now have excellent tools to support the academic computing needs of our students."

Michael Arons, Vice President of Academic Affairs at Long Island University, says the time and money invested on the upgrades is essential. "The entire academic computing environment has changed over the past two years," said Arons. "By keeping pace with technology, we are facilitating many facets of each student's education."

The new developments include:

• Students get free, unlimited Internet access from their dormitory. All dorm rooms are connected to Beachnet, the College's computer network. With the one-time purchase of a network card, students with computers can access Beachnet, e-mail, and the Internet -- without the delays, difficulties and costs associated with a modem.
• Upgrades to Student Computer Labs. Computer labs have been upgraded to sophisticated multimedia learning centers. All 20 systems in the Natural Science lab have been replaced by Pentium 200Mhz PC's, with CD-ROM, sound cards and headphones. In addition, the Business Lab has received four multimedia systems.
• Interactive Web Site. The College's web site (www.southampton.liunet.edu) has been described as "innovative" by The New York Times. It allows students to check their grade point average, and lets prospective students apply to the school on-line.
• The Latest Software. Student labs now have the latest programs such as Microsoft Office 97, Windows 95, Netscape, Microsoft Internet Explorer, and Pegasus e-mail.
• These new technologies at Southampton College have resulted in educational processes which seemed like science fiction a generation ago.
• Students now can communicate via e-mail with professors, some of whom have developed web-based curriculums. Students also can log onto the web site to get assignments, materials and "hot links" to valuable reference sites.
• "With students getting free, unlimited Internet access right from their dorm room, I'm sure this trend of increased computer use will continue," said Tranchino.