by Aaron Morgan

Created on: June 28, 2008   Last Updated: January 03, 2009

Computer Selection: A Quest for the Best

Who is qualified to judge what is the "best" computer available to students today? That is a question that I cannot answer; I certainly am not qualified and cannot off the top of my head think of a specific person that I know who can specifically pinpoint what type of computer each and every student out there should get. Sure, people may have gret recommendations, but a computer needs to fit an individual as well and meet their unique needs and desires. With new computers put onto the market every day utilizing newly developed technologies and features, any opinion on this subject is outdated soon after it hits the presses. Although I am not about to claim that any specific computer is the best for students, as an educator, I feel that I am qualified to give you an idea of where to start when selecting a computer for students, especially those going away to college.

In the current times we live in, it is nearly essential that a student owns a computer, unless they are guaranteed access to a public lab or someone else's computer everytime they will need to use one. Almost all college courses these days have web components or have instructors who expect students to check their email for essential course information on a daily or weekly basis. Computers are key for communication; most colleges post information for students on all aspects of campus life on a web site.

Personally, I beleive that the best computer for a college student is vaguely, a laptop or notebook computer. These types of computers are portable. With most all college campuses having wireless internet available on campus to their students; students can use these computers in their dorm rooms, in their courses, in the campus library, in the cafeteria, and everywhere else on campus.

A computer for a student does not need to be costly. It is important that you sit down with your student to determine what is essential for their future computer needs (hardware, programs, software, etc.). It is not necessary to purchase a computer equipped for gaming, computers with these components are usually significantly more expensive. I would say that essential components for student computers would be at least a 120 GB hard drive, at least 1GB of memory if not more, a wireless internet card, a sound card, a video card, Microsoft Office Software, a CD ROM Drive, and Norton or McAfee virus protection. I have found many of the best deals at stores like Staples, Best Buy, and Office Max; you just need to pay attention to sales and take advantage of special offers when they become available. You can also sometimes find online deals at computer manufacturer websites such as at www.dell.com or www.hp.com .

Above all, remember that a student computer purchase does not have to be an expensive venture. Decide how much you have available to spend, meet with your student and discuss what is essential in a computer, and search for the best deal before you make a purchase. By following these steps, you will end up with the "best" computer for your student's individual needs.

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