Solutions: Higher Ed. - Campus Connectivity

Improve Campus Connectivity

GOAL: Ensure that all higher education campuses (especially community colleges) have adequate access to broadband networks.

DESCRIPTION: Improved access includes classroom access, better wireless coverage in common areas and student centers, as well as high-speed broadband access to student dorms.

Before expanding access, a network assessment should be undertaken to ensure current coverage.

Part of the expansion should include indirect requirements such as the potential need for increased tech support and power consumption due to increased usage of devices.

ACTIONS:

Use the national broadband availability map and assess your community’s needs. The U.S. Department of Education developed this broadband availability map and search engine as part of a collaborative effort with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This education-focused broadband map and database build upon the NTIA State Broadband Initiative (SBI) Program that surveyed bi-annually broadband availability and connectivity for the 50 United States, 5 territories, and the District of Columbia.

Research federal and state funding sources.

RESPONSIBLE PARTIES:

Higher education administration, director of technology, IT department, curriculum directors/specialists, librarians, student science club members; Board of regents, school committee members; Citizens and community leaders; Broadband providers

RESOURCES:

HUIT To Improve Wi-Fi Coverage on Campus: http://www.thecrimson.com/article/2012/4/20/HUIT-wifi-harvard/.

Universal Service Administrative Company: http://www.usac.org/sl/

Five ways to build a better wireless network: https://campustechnology.com/articles/2011/04/14/5-ways-to-build-a-better-wireless-network.aspx.

More bandwidth per user: Keeping up with student demand: https://campustechnology.com/articles/2015/06/09/more-bandwidth-per-user-keeping-up-with-student-demand.aspx.

Insider’s guide to outdoor college Wi-Fi: https://www.universitybusiness.com/article/insiders-guide-outdoor-college-wi-fi.