Bluefield, VA – Bluefield University student leaders received the first iPad bundles today as they returned to campus. Bluefield University announced its partnership with Apple in May to bring new iPad bundles to every on-campus student and faculty member. The new initiative, ‘RAMSConnect’, will ensure students have equal access to their classroom experience.
Each on-campus student will receive the iPad Air 4, Smart Keyboard, and Apple Pencil 2. Students will be able to keep these devices upon graduating from BU.
Bluefield University Student Government Association President, Isaiah Rife, received the first iPad bundle. “The iPad (initiative) shows that the faculty and staff at BU care about us (students) and want us to succeed,” said Rife. “They want everyone to have an equal opportunity to do the best they can with their schoolwork and to succeed after college.”
RAMSConnect emphasizes Bluefield University’s commitment to providing the best opportunity for student success and preparation for their future career for every student. The availability of powerful technology for all students and faculty provides possibilities to enhance today’s learning, the journey through the college experience, and needed digital effectiveness for the workplace that was previously not possible.
“As a graphic design student, I’m really excited to do some designs on it with the Apple Pencil that I’ve never had available before,” said Laura Kimzey, a senior at BU. “I’m excited to learn how to use it.”
RAMSConnect also supports BU’s effort to create a more affordable education, saving students money through more cost-effective digital textbooks and apps, which are also more current than traditional textbook. The ability to reduce printing costs and having other educational resources at the student’s fingertips in a lightweight device are advantages students will experience.
“What makes this new strategic goal a ‘game changer’ for BU students is that all will have the same equipment for accessing classroom technology,” said Dr. Marshall Flowers, vice president of Academic Affairs at Bluefield University. “This will include livestream and lecture capture sessions, eTextbooks, and the new online learning platform, Canvas.”
Fall student-athletes will receive their iPad bundles on August 12 and returning and new on-campus students will receive bundles on August 17.
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