We are trying to weigh pros and cons of strict limitations of iPod updating vs more flexible approach.

If a student has their own computer, would be good if they used that, they would probably use iPod in a more comprehensive way. As well, they would be more likely to use iTunes to study as well, which offers a more display options than are available with the iPod…
There is the danger though that they will delete the contents of their iPod, but if the files are available for download, they should be able to get on their own…

If we insist that iPods only be updated in the Wilson Media Lab, then we may reduce the number of times students decide to do updates. This means they will not use the iPod as comprehensively, smart playlists or studylists will not update (requires connecting to iTunes)…