Computer Ownership Policy

PURPOSE
To inform students of computer ownership requirements necessary to be successful during medical school. 

AUDIENCE
All medical students

LCME STANDARD
N/A

POLICY
All matriculating medical students are expected to own a portable (e.g. laptop) computer that meets minimum specifications (see link below for details) in order to meet the following educational objectives:

  1. Emphasize the critical role of information technology in medical education and medical practices.
  2. Participate in required, in-class computer-based learning activities such as active-learning pedagogies, online testing, digital microscopy and access to electronic health records.
  3. Enhance the learning experience of lectures, conferences, active-learning pedagogies and clinical activities by accessing web-based resources and tools for collaboration and communication.
  4. Access critical resources for learning and information management while based at affiliated clinical sites and at home.

Refer to: Recommended computer configurations for students

PROCEDURE

  1. All students are expected to adhere to this policy.
  2. Tablets (iPads, Android-based tablets) are not sufficient replacements for laptops for several key Medical Education software applications. Therefore, tablets alone do not fulfill this requirement.
  3. Failure to adhere to this policy may impact learning and lead to interrupted progression through the medical school curriculum.
  4. Inability to adhere to this policy should be brought to the attention of the Associate Dean of Curriculum and Medical Education or the Associate Dean of Students.

RESPONSIBILITY
Committee on Educational Policy

REFERENCES
UC Davis’ recommended computer configurations for students

POLICY OWNER
Committee on Educational Policy

REVIEWED BY
Committee on Educational Policy*
Associate Dean of Curriculum and Medical Education

REVIEWED DATE and REVIEW CYCLE
Augusty 2021; 3-year cycle