Digital Devices for student learning

Most students will need access to a digital device in order to complete their course. 

Using technology

It is recommended that you bring your own device, however if you do not have one the college has a supply of loan devices which you may be able to borrow for the full length of your course.  There is also a supply of laptops available for loan on a daily basis from the Lapsafe Lockers near reception at the Galashiels Campus and also within the Newtown St Boswells Campus. 

All loan devices are subject to availability and eligibility. 

If you are a full time, further education student then you may be eligible for a loan device, however it is still recommended you provide your own.   If you require a device please indicate this when completing your enrolment form for your course. 

If you are not a full time, further education student but do not have access to a suitable device for your course please still indicate this when completing your enrolment for your course.  You should also discuss this with your tutor as soon as possible.  The sooner you contact us, the better so that we can ensure there are enough loan devices for all students who need them. 

As part of your course you may be using online learning materials, college communications and video calls with your lecturers and classmates. Your digital device will allow you to complete your course and keep in touch. 

Please check with your course tutor if you are unsure what the device requirements are for your course. 

We recommend the following specification as a minimum:  

  • Operating System: Windows 10  
  • Processor: minimum 2Ghz  
  • Memory: Minimum 4GB  
  • Storage: Minimum: 128GB (free OneDrive cloud storage is available to all students)  
  • Display: Minimum: 11” screen (1366 x 768)  
  • Wireless: Networking – 802.11n/ac  
  • Camera/Microphone  
  • Battery Life: 5+ hours  

Android/Chrome/Apple iOS devices are not compatible devices for certain aspects of our programmes.  

Please note that some courses require a different specification.  Please check with your course tutor if you are unsure. 

How to check the specification of your device on most compatible devices: 

  • Right click on the windows button in the bottom left hand corner. 
  • Click on ‘system’ 
  • Click on ‘about’ to see most of your specification details 
  • Click on ‘storage’ to see the storage for your device 

If you are still not sure your device meets the above requirements or need help and advice, please visit our Self Service Portal -  Self Service Portal (borderscollege.ac.uk)

All students who have been allocated a device will be able to collect it during induction week, either with their class group or individually.  Any students who are unable to collect during induction week can arrange a time to collect from the college Helpdesk. 

All students must have enrolled and indicated that a device is needed at least 3 working days before they are scheduled to collect their device so that they can be set up in the College network.   

All laptops must be returned at the end of each academic year. All devices should be returned to the helpdesk at Galashiels or the Reception at any other campus.   

Guide to your Student Loan Device (Adobe PDF)

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