On Tuesday, the Student Technology Fee Oversight Committee approved the funding of new computers and security cameras in the Himes Hall testing lab and the expansion of wireless connectivity on campus.
Student and faculty of the committee authorized the proposals after previously deferring them in March 2015 to avoid debt. Due to funds received from the Student Technology Fee, the two projects will be completed and cost $466,526, according to documents provided by the committee.
Jane Cassidy, vice provost for human resources and facilities management, said there are about 400 computers in Himes Hall, and every year about 120 of them are replaced and reallocated to other areas of campus, such as the UREC and the LSU Olinde Career Center.
“In the last two weeks, we’ve averaged 15,000 tests,” said computer manager for the Office of Assessment and Evaluation Derek Wilson. “During finals week, we average 17,000 to 23,000 tests, so we need all 400 of our computers working to make sure our lines don’t reach Lockett.”
Wilson said the new cameras will keep better watch over students as they take tests and catch cheating students.
The security cameras in the testing lab have not been upgraded since 2007, but the upgrade will allow new cameras to be installed and make more storage space for longer recordings. Wilson said there are many incidents where proctors suspect someone of cheating, but due to poor video evidence, they haven’t pursued suspicions.
The funds allocated to the testing lab upgrades will also cover general maintenance, new software and OpenDNS — a security system which prevents students from accessing websites they don’t belong on during their tests.
Wireless connectivity on campus will also expand to compensate for the increased number of devices on campus, including new students’ smart phones and laptops. According to the Wireless STF Proposal provided by the committee, places such as the Parade Ground and Tiger Band Hall are being heavily considered for expansion.
Most locations will have their wireless application points upgraded to handle the number of connectors trying to gain access to the network.
The committee will now dedicate the rest of the semester to taking proposals from different departments on campus that wish for increased funding for technological advancements. There is a $1 million budget for the funds the committee can allocate. Each proposal must have something to do with academic support for students, Cassidy said.
“We’ll fund as many as we can,” Cassidy said. “We’re hoping to add those things [that we approve] in the spring semester. Usually, we can do it during spring break.”