Although any Apple or Windows laptop that meets the minimum specifications will work, we recommend the MacBook and provide support for Apple and Windows compatible computers.
Students entering the PDS have a choice:
Apple: Mac OS Sierra or newer
Windows: Windows 8 or newer
Common Questions
Getting Started
What training is available for students and faculty?
Program faculty will schedule an orientation for students at the beginning of the PDS. This orientation covers the hardware, software and other important items. Faculty can also schedule in-class training closer to the start of an assignment involving technology. Students can also visit the Service Desk with any additional questions. Faculty can receive technology integration support and schedule in-class training with the Office of Instructional Innovation.
What if the Service Desk is closed?
All Apple laptops covered under the AppleCare warranty can be taken to an Apple store for support if the Service Desk is closed. In addition, students can call the AppleCare support team at 800-APL-CARE (800-275-2273). For any Windows devices, please visit your manufacturer's website for more information or see the ITS Help Desk at FAC. You can contact them at 512-475-9400.
To whom can I address additional questions?
Additional questions can be directed to the Service Desk.
Is there additional equipment available for checkout?
Yes. Cameras, tripods, and other peripherals are available for checkout from the Service Desk.
Program Overview
Who is required to have a laptop and when?Background Color | ||
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Digital Literacy & Equity: Our Laptop Requirement for the PDS (2024-25)Digital literacy is a key theme woven across the PDS. You will learn about and with different technologies, tools, and literacies that will become part of your practice as a teacher. To ensure each of you has an equitable opportunity to learn in this area, we require you to have a laptop that meets the minimum requirements to take full advantage of learning activities*. |
Who needs a laptop?
Students entering the Professional Development Sequence (PDS)
in the following
teacher certification areas are required to have a laptop:
- EC-6 ESL
- EC-6 ESL Bilingual
- Special Education
Check the details for each program to confirm when the PDS will begin.
Do I have to purchase a new laptop?
You do not have to purchase a new laptop if you have one that meets the requirement. You may also be able to upgrade your current laptop to meet the requirement.
Should I buy the laptop early or at the start of the PDS?
Some students choose to purchase the required laptop prior to the start of their PDS. Others prefer to use another computer until the start of their PDS approaches. The latter option gives students the advantage of purchasing the latest laptops. However, students who purchase the required laptop early will not be required to purchase a second laptop, even if the specifics of the requirement change.
Can I buy a tablet computer instead of a laptop to meet the requirement?
The program steering committee is closely monitoring the changes in devices as they are released. Since tablets do not currently offer the full set of necessary features, a laptop is required.
Purchasing a Laptop
Do I have to purchase at the UT Campus Computer Store?
No, you may obtain a laptop that meets the requirement from any source you choose.
How can I insure against loss, theft or accidental damage?
The AppleCare warranty does not cover loss, theft or accidental damage. The Worth Ave. Group offers this type of coverage.
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title | Information Technology Office |
Long Semester Hours
8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. M-F
Summer Hours
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. M-F
Closed Weekends
Email The Desk
Or call 512-471-4357 (HELP)
- Urban Teachers (UTUT)
- UTeach Fine Arts
Which laptop do I need?
You may use a Mac or Windows laptop, as long as it meets the following specifications. Chromebooks do not meet the requirement.
Minimum Specifications
- 8 GB memory
- 256 GB hard drive space
- Apple: macOS Monterey
- Windows: Windows 11
Will an iPad or similar tablet meet the requirement?
iPads do not meet the requirement; they lack a physical keyboard, and mobile operating systems do not work well with some online learning tools.
Where should I buy a laptop?
You may purchase a laptop from the vendor of your choice. The Campus Computer Store and manufacturers such as Apple and Dell offer discounts for students.
What will I do with my laptop?
Digital learning is embedded courses and in targeted digital literacy activities throughout the PDS.
For more details, go to:
Where can I go for help?
- For a digital literacy activity or questions, contact Dr. Karen French at kdfrench@utexas.edu .
- For hardware troubleshooting or equipment checkout, email the ITO Help Desk at help@education.utexas.edu.
- For Canvas, Zoom, or email help, contact ITS at help@utexas.edu or 512-475-9400.
* Because the requirement is in place, cost will be included in your financial aid package from the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid. Visit Texas One Stop (https://onestop.utexas.edu) with questions or for more information.