And the computer provides another way to work around limitations such as dyslexia or shyness. Similarly, we know that certain subjects are more easily taught through a particular technique or approach. The fullest justification for ubiquitous computing comes when computers are meaningful used not only in classes but also administratively, as in registration and marketing. Similarly, the Web page designed for use in courses leads to a still higher level of efficiency if the same design is used by student organizations, faculty committees, and personal pages. Proficiency developed through one use transfers quickly to other uses.
Different disciplines require very different services from a computer infrastructure.
One person, no matter how knowledgeable, cannot adequately represent this diversity. For a system to serve the entire community and for advice to span both shorter and longer time lines, multiple faculty groups providing planning advice on the same and on different issues is essential. A communication system is no stronger than its weakest link. If computers are to be effectively used in education, especially in strengthening learning communities, students must have computers that are equal to faculty computers. If collaborative learning is to be emphasized, all parties in the collaboration, especially students, need comparable computers.