New Mac Lab opens
August 21, 2019
The new Mac Lab was created for computer science program students to practice SWIFT application development and art students using Photoshop. Pictured are Misti Purvis, art faculty, and John Bess, computer science and economics faculty, with students Magan Weeks of Andalusia and Kyndal Staley of Brantley.
In the creative world of digital color, fast-paced graphics, and animation, a set of newly-acquired Apple Mac computers at LBW Community College in Andalusia is providing students hands-on learning with SWIFT application development through the computer science program and design work in art classes.
“Thanks to a grant from the Workforce Development Division of the Alabama Community College System, the College acquired 10 additional computers and created a Mac lab,” said Renée LeMaire, LBWCC public information officer and director of marketing.
Although application development classes are held in Opp, the computers expand opportunities for computer science program students to work on app development projects on the Andalusia campus, she said.
The grant of $21,953 covered the cost of computers, licenses, equipment, and supplies.
“One of the benefits for students is the exposure to the Apple operating system and being able to experience the difference between Mac and PC systems,” said John Bess, coordinator for distance education and computer science and economics faculty.
“They will be better prepared for future educational endeavors and employment opportunities to say they have experience with both types of operating systems,” he said.
“We increasingly have a web component in classes, whether traditional or online classes, so additional computers for student use are always a bonus.”
Misti Purvis, LBWCC art faculty, said art students will benefit from the rich graphic capabilities of the IOS system and better prepare them for transfer.
“We incorporate computer graphics in our studio classes. Many art students are majoring in computer graphics and animation. Now, they are exposed to Photoshop and Illustrator, better preparing them to transfer to higher-level classes in graphic design,” she said.
