To facilitate distance learning,the Student Association (AE) at the Metz campus decided to invest part of the student initiative solidarity fund (FSDIE) allocated to them in loaner computer equipment. Mylène Tarnowski and Margaux Renouf, second-year students and Student Representatives (DAP), coordinated the operation.
Why did you choose to purchase computer equipment?
Mylène Tarnowski and Margaux Renouf: During the first lockdown, students encountered numerous equipment problems. After discussing the issue with the deputy campus director, we decided it would be useful to set up a computer equipment loan service to help students in need and enable them to work from home in the best possible conditions.
It is therefore in connection with the campus that we, on behalf of the Student Association, have decided to submit this request to the FSDIE.
What equipment was purchased?
Mylène and Margaux: We bought eleven monitors with their adapters, which are useful, for example, for having a second screen when using specialized software; six headsets with microphones and six webcams to make it more comfortable to follow classes or for presentations.
How do students access these facilities?
Mylène and Margaux: Laptops are managed by the I-Resam association, which is responsible for IT and networking in the student residence. We manage all other equipment directly.
Students wishing to borrow equipment must provide a deposit proportional to the purchase price of the equipment. The initial loan period is one or two weeks, but may be extended depending on demand.
Is the equipment used a lot?
Mylène and Margaux: The equipment is mainly borrowed when students have group projects or projects that require software that can be used remotely by connecting to campus computers. It is easier for them to have the software on one screen and the video conferencing system or lessons on another. In fact, all the screens have been borrowed at least once.
We have quite a few loans!
Supporting students in following distance learning courses
- Loan equipment, provided by the Grand Est Region and recently received, will soon be made available to students,
- The Alumni Association has contributed to the purchase of computer equipment for those in need,
- The campus provides computer rooms equipped with professional software and accessible remotely, as well as rooms equipped with videoconferencing systems and video projectors for attending classes,
- An agreement has just been signed with Emmaüs Connect for the provision of 4G keys, internet refills, and smartphones.
