By: Anthony Barrett
The bigger, the better.
Hershey High School’s Engineering department bought 56 new computers this summer for the 2015-2016 school year and beyond. The computers were purchased to replaced old and outdated ones, but also to help students.
At $1,600 retail cost, each of the machines were a big step up in both capability and expense from previous models used by the Engineering department. The total retail cost of the upgrade was $86,400 for 56 computers.
The new monitors are 24 inches across and display 1900 x 1200 HD resolution.
The computers will also allow for better, faster use of programs like AutoCad, a commercial software application for 2D and 3D computer-aided design (CAD) and drafting and Inventor a computer-aided design application for creating 3D digital prototypes used in the design, visualization and simulation of products.
Engineering and Design teacher Mark Painter said that the new computers will make it easier for students to learn. Painter said, “One of the biggest assets the new computers provide is the bigger monitors. It will be easier for the students to see.” Painter also has 28 workstation computers in his classroom which is more than enough for everyone to be working on one at a time.
He also thinks that they will not only help students learn, but possibly let in new curriculum. “The new computers will also allow the use of new programs, we just have to figure out what works,” said Painter.
Students are also excited about the new upgrade. Sophomore Engineering II student Sahil Kumar explained “The new computers also have adjustable monitors so it makes it easier for me to see. They are also a lot faster than the old ones.”
Sophomore Jake Wilson agreed, “I’m really glad the school decided to upgrade. The old ones were becoming slower and slower every year.”’
Some students disagree. Engineering II student Gryphon Chroscinski wondered if the purchase was wise. “Not to say that I’m not glad to have the new computers, but I think the old ones worked just fine. I think the money could have been used somewhere else.”
