How long could you go without a computer?

Eight students in a film class at Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota recently asked whether or not they could survive in college without their computers. Three of the eight students shut down, hid from view, duct taped and otherwise disconnected themselves from their computers for several weeks during the height of the term. The other five students followed these three in their struggles to conduct research, complete papers and get vital information from their instructors and fellow students without logging on.

I saw this film as it was screened during the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Film Festival, and believe it indirectly addresses the issue of the technology divide on our campuses; who does and who doesn't have access to computers and broadband outside of class and off campus--and how that divide impacts student success rates. The documentary is very well-executed, professionally produced (by Carleton College faculty member Melody Gilbert and her students) and well-worth any college instructor's time in viewing. Future screenings are yet to be announced, but you can get a sneak preview and sign up to be alerted to screenings by staying connected.