What is Changing -- and What is Not
What Is Changing
- Software required for some MCEC courses will become accessible through a virtual computer lab platform
- Students will be able to access software remotely using their own devices
- Laptop access options will be expanded to support students who need them
What Is Not Changing
- This is a phased transition. Physical computer labs are not being immediately removed but will be phased out over the next five years.
- Some physical PCs will remain available in specific classrooms and instructional spaces
Project Timeline
Stage 1 — Laptop Access Expansion (Summer 2026)
A self-service laptop checkout kiosk will be installed in the Swearingen lobby.
- Available for all MCEC students
- Laptops may be checked out anytime
- Standard loan period: 4 hours
This kiosk is similar to the one currently available at the Thomas Cooper Library and is designed to support students who need temporary laptop access.
Stage 2 — Pilot Virtual Computer Labs (Fall 2026)
Virtual computer lab access will be made available for MCEC students.
- Student and instructor feedback will be essential
- All software used in MCEC courses will be included
- Feedback and performance will be evaluated throughout the semester
This phase allows MCEC to ensure the system meets instructional and student needs before broader deployment.
Stage 3 — Pilot Virtual Computer Labs (Spring 2027)
Continued monitoring and improvement
Stage 4 — Physical PC Lifecycle Management (Ongoing)
Physical PCs will not be replaced as they reach the end of their expected lifecycle.
- PCs will be retired gradually
- No mass removal of labs will occur
- Changes will align with instructional needs
Stage 5 — Continued Support for Instructional Spaces (Ongoing)
Physical PCs will remain in:
- Sumwalt classrooms used for CSCE service courses
- Department specific experiential learning classrooms
These spaces will continue to support hands-on and course-specific instructional needs.
What This Means for Students
Now Through Summer 2026
- Most courses will continue to rely on existing physical computer labs
- Students who need temporary laptop access will have increased options starting in Summer 2026
Fall 2026 (Pilot Phase)
- Students may access required software through the virtual computer lab
- Required participation depends on course selection, but access will be available to all students
- Instructions will be provided directly by participating courses
Fall 2027 and Beyond
- Many MCEC courses will require access to software via the virtual computer lab
- Students will need a laptop to participate in some coursework
- Laptop checkout options will be available for students who need them
What This Means for Instructors
- Instructional spaces will continue to be supported throughout the transition
- Pilot courses will receive additional coordination and support
- Feedback from instructors will directly inform expansion decisions
- No required instructional changes will be made without advance notice
MCEC is committed to maintaining instructional reliability and minimizing disruption. Please contact the IT Director Brian Hull if you are willing to participate in the pilot program.
Who Can Use the Virtual Computer Labs
Virtual Computer Labs are available to:
- All MCEC students and instructors
- Users who currently have access to physical PCs in MCEC computer labs
Access to virtual computer labs is intended to mirror existing eligibility for instructional computer lab resources. If a student or instructor is currently able to use physical lab computers for coursework, they will be eligible to use the virtual computer lab platform.
How Students Will Access Software
Students will access required software by:
- Visiting an MCEC website
- Downloading a virtual computer lab application
- Logging in with university credentials
- Launching required course software remotely
This approach allows students to use software without installing it directly on their personal devices.
Use of Virtual Computer Labs for Research
Virtual Computer Labs are not intended for research use.
- Virtual computer labs are strictly for:
- Classroom instruction
- Course-related projects
- Homework and class assignments
- Research computing is out of scope for this platform
Research workloads often require specialized configurations, persistent storage, higher performance computing, or grant-specific compliance requirements that are not supported by the virtual computer lab environment.
Faculty and students conducting research should continue to use existing research computing resources and workflows.
Laptop Access and Support
Do MCEC students need a laptop?
Yes. Starting in Fall 2027, some MCEC courses may require students to use a laptop to access required software through the virtual computer lab.
What if I do not have a laptop?
MCEC will provide a self-service laptop checkout kiosk in the Swearingen lobby beginning Summer 2026.
- Available anytime
- 4-hour loan periods
- Designed for short-term and on-campus use
Students can also visit the Thomas Cooper Library to experience a similar kiosk currently in operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will physical computer labs disappear?
No. Physical computer labs will remain in select instructional spaces and will be retired gradually as systems reach the end of their lifecycle.
Will all software be available remotely?
Yes, the current plan is for all applications currently available in MCEC computer labs to be available in the virtual computer lab.
How will I know if my course is included in the pilot?
Instructors of participating courses will communicate directly with students.
Where can I get help or updates?
This website will be updated regularly as the project progresses.
How can I print from my laptop?
Student printing kiosks are available in Swearing and 300 Main. Upload files to print at printme.com.
Staying Informed
This initiative will evolve over multiple academic years. Students and instructors are encouraged to check back regularly for updates, timelines, and support resources.
MCEC is committed to transparency, reliability, and equitable access throughout this transition.