Proposal

Narrative

This proposal is to update the AH 206 computer lab/classroom on the Boca Raton Campus with new iMacs and Adobe Creative Cloud software in order to enhance the learning experience of students taking photography and foundations digital art courses at FAU in the lab. The update will benefit the Department of Visual Arts and Art History students that take advantage of the 12-15 open lab hours per week each semester. Additionally, the required Visual Arts and Art History student portfolio review recently moved to a digital submission format creating a higher level of use in AH 206 by the review applicants. During open lab sessions any student registered in a course within the department may utilize the facilities. AH 206 was outfitted with computers in 2011, and they are now outdated and out of warranty. The current software used at comparable universities is Adobe Creative Cloud. Due to age, the current computers are unable to be updated with this software. Our calibration system that provides color accuracy in monitors and prints cannot be used on the current computers, as the operating system is outdated. Color correctness is crucial in all aspects of instruction and practice of photography, digital art, and design AH 206 is a heavily used space that serves between 14-16 courses per academic year. It provides computers, design and photography software, photo quality printers, and multiple high-resolution scanners. Increased demands and improving technology makes having an up-to-date lab essential in both attracting students and providing quality instruction. Currently the lab is working with an outdated version of Adobe Creative Suite (CS6), and the computers are struggling to handle student projects. Outdated software is a major disservice to students, as when they graduate they will be unprepared for the workplace since they will not have learned current software. Advances in technology impact all areas of study, but perhaps photography and digital art more so, as they are inherently tied to technology. Given the strong need for an up to date, fully functioning multi-purpose lab/classroom, along with universities goal to stay current with industry standards makes it crucial that this proposal move forward.

Facilities

Hardware Requirements

Quantity 22 - iMac 27-inch Retina 5K display with 3.6GHz $43,990.95

Software Requirements

Adobe Creative Cloud software Device Licenses for 4 years - $29,988.00

Personnel Costs

n/a

Other Costs

n/a

Timeline

The project would begin after the spring 2017semester ends and will be completed prior to the start of the fall 2017 semester.

Sustainability

The proposed project includes licensing Adobe Creative Cloud software for four years.

Resource Matching

n/a

Implementing Organization

College Computing Services in collaboration with the Visual Arts and Art History department.