Is computer compulsory for first year engineering student?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around whether it is mandatory for first-year engineering students, particularly in India, to have a personal computer. Participants explore the implications of having or not having a computer for their studies in electrical engineering, considering factors such as access to information, software requirements, and personal experiences.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about transporting a desktop computer to college and questions the necessity of having a computer for their studies.
  • Another participant suggests that while it is possible to manage without a computer, having one greatly facilitates access to information and resources, especially if the college lacks 24/7 computer lab access.
  • A participant mentions that Indian universities likely have computer labs available for student use, indicating that personal ownership may not be strictly necessary.
  • Some courses in engineering may require specialized software that might not be available in campus labs, implying that a personal computer could be essential for certain subjects.
  • There is a suggestion that prospective students could seek advice from current students at their university through online forums, indicating a community resource for information.
  • Another participant agrees that engineering students often benefit from having a laptop for convenience and ongoing study, reinforcing the idea that personal computers are advantageous.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the necessity of having a personal computer for first-year engineering students. While some argue it is essential for convenience and access to resources, others believe it is possible to succeed without one, leading to an unresolved debate on the topic.

Contextual Notes

Participants' perspectives are influenced by their individual experiences and the specific requirements of their respective educational institutions, which may vary significantly.

vkash
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I have a desktop with P4 and a gig ram(using right now). I didn't want to take it to my college since it is 1600 KMs from home and carrying a desktop there is follishness(laptop seems to be a better option). So is it mandatory to take computer to college or i can manage even without a computer, I am from India and going to do electrical engineering.
I shall buy a PC next year, But if it is hardly advised to buy new laptop/desktop then i can request a PC(most probably laptop) to my father else it will be in budget of march/april 2013..

dear mentors if it is in wrong location then displace it..
thanks!
 
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You can probable get by without a computer for quite some time, but you're doing yourself a disservice by not having the vast amount of information and assistance that a good computer and internet connection in your own home/dorm/apartment can provide.
If your college/univeristy doesn't have a computer lab open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week then I highly suggest bringing that Desktop to your school and not trying to "get by" without a computer of your own for an entire year.

That is my opinion any way, I'm sure it's *possible* to actually complete an entire program without owning your own computer, but it would be adding more difficulty to an already difficult program!
 
I don't know as much about Indian universities, but I bet they have computer labs you can use. I had a computer when I did my degree in the states, but it was a desktop. I never had a laptop until after I graduated.
 
Some courses may not need them, but certain math, engineering, and science courses use specialized programs, such as Mathematica or AutoCAD/Autodesk, which may not be available in campus computer labs.
 
There may be a society of Indian engineering students, or something like that, where there'd be a forum where you can ask people who are currently studying at the university where you will enroll. You could ask on their forum. Try a google search.

But I would be very surprised if there could be an engineering school where a personal computer wasn't almost mandatory. Some schools might have arranged a deal with a computer company to sell a particular model laptop to enrolled students at a good discount.
 
I do agree with NascentOxygen. Engineering students further influence by scientific innovation, so a lot of students must have laptop for convenience and further study without any hassle.
 

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