INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
ACADEMIC COMPUTING
Winthrop University Academic Computing supports the instructional and research functions of the
University. Within the Division of Information Technology, Academic Computing provides access to diverse
computing resources. These resources includes a 500 MHz DEC UNIX AlphaServer, other DEC UNIX
servers and workstations, Windows NT microcomputer networks, laboratories with stand-alone
microcomputers, and access to DEC VMS clustered AlphaServers. Over 15 computer laboratories
supporting PC and Macintosh standards are available on campus for open access and instructional needs.
Winthrop's host computers have an assortment of programming languages such as Ada, BASIC, C, C++,
COBOL, Fortran, Java, LISP, and Pascal. Two major statistical and computational packages, SAS and
Mathematica, are also available. Microcomputer networks and laboratories provide computing resources
for support of instructional and research applications. Typical applications include desktop publishing,
database management, spreadsheet analysis, graphics, communications, Internet, and word processing.
Dial-up services provide students and faculty with 24 hour access to Winthrop's network and computing
facilities. All main campus buildings are directly connected to the campus network through fiber optic cable.
Winthrop is also a node on the Internet. Faculty, staff, and students are provided access to e-mail and
Internet.
The Academic Computing Center also provides computer access for visually impaired students, as well as
Braille printing services.
General operational hours for the Academic Computing Center are Monday through Thursday, 8:00a.m 1:00a.m.; Friday, 8:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.; Saturday, Noon - 5:00p.m.; and Sunday, Noon - 1:00a.m.
DISTANCE LEARNING
Winthrop University is a leader in instructional technology, featuring the Distance Education Classroom in
the College of Business Thurmond Building. Utilizing a T1 digital configuration, classes in Winthrop's
Distance Education Classroom are fully interactive between Winthrop and the remote site. Students and
teachers communicate with each other simultaneously in classrooms outfitted with robotic cameras, TV
monitors, desk microphones, and a fully equipped television control room.
MBA candidates at Coastal Carolina University in Conway, SC, are already online with Winthrop to take
advantage of this learning opportunity. Winthrop's MBA degree is the same AACSB accredited program
that has enjoyed more than 20 years of success serving the Charlotte Metrolina region.
Dual credit courses are also offered over the T1 circuit and through the BEACON network to local area
high schools using an ATM fiber network.
VIII-2 SOURCE: INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY