LST 491 course has illuminated me to view the current scenario of the US education. Before starting the class, the course title looked like a boring subject. But more I involved into the course the more I feel interested, only because of Dr. Garrigon’s teaching style and strategy. Every class is so interesting, impressive and thoughtful because through real life story telling he introduced the unknown topic to us. I came to know the unknown real life story in Education and how a Technology director can handle that unusual condition and plan to make a good strategy for solving the problem. In my view,Technology Coordinator’s job is very hard and challenging. Without Computer science background and management, it is very hard to stick to this job. In comparison with other course, this course has fully very different aspect like management of technology in education and I enjoyed that particularly budget code part which was complex, challenging but enjoyable.
Every thoughtful question was challenging to me, because it has a profound thought in it, as I have no real life experience about school environment here in the US, I had spent much time in it, for example, imaging part. I had no idea before, compared to somebody who are already working in this environment, they may find pretty simple. I may write something not so thoughtful, but I wrote what I understood. Even though for our main project, Wikibook writing each individual had no much contribution except a small part or chapter, but through thoughtful problem writing we contribute our own thinking in every aspect of this course, particularly supporting and maintaining technology in school with an educator's standpoint.
To me Wikibook writing is the most interesting and enthusiastic part of this course. I had a feeling of just like writing a book and got an idea of up to date electronic book writing. It seems to me that cooperation, collaboration and management are very important in Wiki book writing. Compared to others I have not much discussion in the first, but later I met several times and we distributed our work in three subsections. Actually I focused on both sections purchasing technology Research as well as receiving technology.
As a whole, Dr. Garrigon’s teaching strategy, Wikibook writing and Thoughtful questions has made the course pretty enjoyable and eye opening so that my writing skill has been improved as well as it has enhanced my knowledge to a great extent.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Thoughtful Problem #13
1. Your superintendent has learned that you wrote a Wikibook, and he asks you for your reactions to the Wikibook process and how you think writing Wikibooks (or something like it) might have a place in school. He is so intrigued by your response that he asks you to summarize your ideas on one-page and submit it to him.
2. Write a one-page document (three to five paragraphs) that he can use to share your ideas with his cabinet and school board. In it relate your experience (positive and/or negative) in writing a Wikibook. Explain where such a creative (constructivist) activity might fit in a school. You may also explain where it might not be a good fit. Explain the problems you might expect the project to encounter, and how the problems could be minimized. Wikibooks are only for non-fiction textbooks. Don't let that restriction limit your response because other wiki sites could be used for fiction or non-textbooks.
My reflection on Wikibook writing
Marshall Mcluhan’s word, ‘media is the message’ is really true in Wikibook writing. Wekipedia is an increasing body of knowledge that one can observe through quickly pooling out the information. Writing on the Web is like creating a virtual representation of myself as a writer. It is a reputation of my writing capability as well as organization capability and Technological capability. It also examine my collaborative intelligence-The ability to pool knowledge and share knowledge with others toward a common goal.
From the very beginning toward end contribution in the Wikibook is pretty enthusiastic and somewhat challenging. Supervisor or project manager plays a vital role for any project to guide the whole project and to finish it smoothly toward end. To me organization of chapters and subtopics are the core part of Wikibook writing. Once chapter and subchapter organization is completed and job is divided, then project is easy to handle, because each individual has own responsibility to finish the particular portion. Formatting text, paragraph, page and image is very challenging. Visual appearance, readability and overall appeal are all important in formatting Wikipedia. All kinds of plagiarism are prohibited from Wikipedia. Uploading an image can be challenging, if someone miss any required steps. Collaborative editing is the most interesting thing.
Middle school and high school teacher for history, geography and science subjects can start a project in Wikipedia like this. As middle and high school kids tend to be technology savvy, a book writing project can bring enthusiasm for some boring topics. It has two sides ,Individual responsiblty for one chapter or subchapter as well as knowledge gaining from peers. 21st century skill is collaborative, management skill like project management , how they handle a project , leadership , cooperative skill, communication skill, time management skill,thinking and problem solving skill,Information and communication technology (ICT) literacy, all a teacher can assess through a constructivist project. How a student comprehend new ideas, solve problem, make decisions all can be assessed through a collaborative project in constructivist environment. As Wiki book or any wiki site is free of cost, any middle and high school teacher can jump into it with their students. Wikibook is a collaborative academic writing. It brings higher level of motivation. Learning from peers,sharing expertise within a group, combining text with images, video and sound all are motivating and interesting for kids.
2. Write a one-page document (three to five paragraphs) that he can use to share your ideas with his cabinet and school board. In it relate your experience (positive and/or negative) in writing a Wikibook. Explain where such a creative (constructivist) activity might fit in a school. You may also explain where it might not be a good fit. Explain the problems you might expect the project to encounter, and how the problems could be minimized. Wikibooks are only for non-fiction textbooks. Don't let that restriction limit your response because other wiki sites could be used for fiction or non-textbooks.
My reflection on Wikibook writing
Marshall Mcluhan’s word, ‘media is the message’ is really true in Wikibook writing. Wekipedia is an increasing body of knowledge that one can observe through quickly pooling out the information. Writing on the Web is like creating a virtual representation of myself as a writer. It is a reputation of my writing capability as well as organization capability and Technological capability. It also examine my collaborative intelligence-The ability to pool knowledge and share knowledge with others toward a common goal.
From the very beginning toward end contribution in the Wikibook is pretty enthusiastic and somewhat challenging. Supervisor or project manager plays a vital role for any project to guide the whole project and to finish it smoothly toward end. To me organization of chapters and subtopics are the core part of Wikibook writing. Once chapter and subchapter organization is completed and job is divided, then project is easy to handle, because each individual has own responsibility to finish the particular portion. Formatting text, paragraph, page and image is very challenging. Visual appearance, readability and overall appeal are all important in formatting Wikipedia. All kinds of plagiarism are prohibited from Wikipedia. Uploading an image can be challenging, if someone miss any required steps. Collaborative editing is the most interesting thing.
Middle school and high school teacher for history, geography and science subjects can start a project in Wikipedia like this. As middle and high school kids tend to be technology savvy, a book writing project can bring enthusiasm for some boring topics. It has two sides ,Individual responsiblty for one chapter or subchapter as well as knowledge gaining from peers. 21st century skill is collaborative, management skill like project management , how they handle a project , leadership , cooperative skill, communication skill, time management skill,thinking and problem solving skill,Information and communication technology (ICT) literacy, all a teacher can assess through a constructivist project. How a student comprehend new ideas, solve problem, make decisions all can be assessed through a collaborative project in constructivist environment. As Wiki book or any wiki site is free of cost, any middle and high school teacher can jump into it with their students. Wikibook is a collaborative academic writing. It brings higher level of motivation. Learning from peers,sharing expertise within a group, combining text with images, video and sound all are motivating and interesting for kids.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Thoughtful Problem #12
Read the three web pages for class 12 in Course Documents. Select one of these or one of your own that presents a serious ethical problem for the technology director. A serious ethical problem usually has consequences no matter how you decide to act. In three to five paragraphs, discuss as honestly as you can the ethical problem and the possible consequences.
In response to the tech director’s ethical dilemma:
The reading makes me think about how a teacher can be so much vulgar and ugly and how one organization like a high school in the US can not terminate her from teaching like moral job or imprison her. In my view, this teacher should immediately be terminated from the school and a tech coordinator’s duty to protect students and school environment, school technology at any cost. Ethical issues must be prioritized first.
As this teacher showed the kids how to bypass filter, she should be terminated from the school. As a tech coordinator, I think that it should be reported first to the higher authority, like school principle, superintendent, and administration. She may have a power to abuse technology like one higher authority of school district may have personal relationship. There are hidden corruption everywhere in the US society .Who knows that probably that person may relate to some political organization. Everybody may already aware of this issue, but due to possible bad consequence, this may be overlooked by others.
One of the biggest issues with ethics is loyalty. Now question is loyalty to whom? To the community or to the boss or authority. In most cases, every working person has bondage to the higher authority. Any public staff should keep safeguard confidential information, but should put loyalty on the public’s interest above personal and political loyalties. In perspective of fairness, dignity, respect, tech coordinator should make decision based on the merits of the issue, pay attention on policy, apply policy consistently. Policy should be reviewed periodically. In perspective of responsibility- as a public servant, a tech coordinator works for the community, take responsibility for his or her own actions, even when it is uncomfortable to do so.
He or she should involve all appropriate stakeholders in meeting affecting decisions, follow through on commitments, keep others informed all the incidents.
Therefore,as a Public servant and care-giver for students ,first step is to figure out what is right things to do which is sometimes difficult due to grey areas and ethical dilemmas. Second, what is the public’s perception of the right thing to do would be? Third, when needed balance the first two steps and follow the path that best serves public’s interest.
In response to the tech director’s ethical dilemma:
The reading makes me think about how a teacher can be so much vulgar and ugly and how one organization like a high school in the US can not terminate her from teaching like moral job or imprison her. In my view, this teacher should immediately be terminated from the school and a tech coordinator’s duty to protect students and school environment, school technology at any cost. Ethical issues must be prioritized first.
As this teacher showed the kids how to bypass filter, she should be terminated from the school. As a tech coordinator, I think that it should be reported first to the higher authority, like school principle, superintendent, and administration. She may have a power to abuse technology like one higher authority of school district may have personal relationship. There are hidden corruption everywhere in the US society .Who knows that probably that person may relate to some political organization. Everybody may already aware of this issue, but due to possible bad consequence, this may be overlooked by others.
One of the biggest issues with ethics is loyalty. Now question is loyalty to whom? To the community or to the boss or authority. In most cases, every working person has bondage to the higher authority. Any public staff should keep safeguard confidential information, but should put loyalty on the public’s interest above personal and political loyalties. In perspective of fairness, dignity, respect, tech coordinator should make decision based on the merits of the issue, pay attention on policy, apply policy consistently. Policy should be reviewed periodically. In perspective of responsibility- as a public servant, a tech coordinator works for the community, take responsibility for his or her own actions, even when it is uncomfortable to do so.
He or she should involve all appropriate stakeholders in meeting affecting decisions, follow through on commitments, keep others informed all the incidents.
Therefore,as a Public servant and care-giver for students ,first step is to figure out what is right things to do which is sometimes difficult due to grey areas and ethical dilemmas. Second, what is the public’s perception of the right thing to do would be? Third, when needed balance the first two steps and follow the path that best serves public’s interest.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Thoughtful Problem #11
1. Busy administrators and lay people (non-technically trained) usually prefer to read a 1-page summary of a technology report. If they have a special reason or interest, they may read the entire document. Your goal is to get them to read at least the 1-page summary. Our Thoughtful Problems have been designed to train you in the preparation of a logically-organized 1-page statement or explanation.
2. Choose a technology topic that interests you. Imagine that your superintendent has requested a report from you on this topic. In 3-5 paragraphs write a clear explanatory report. The report may concern a proposal for a new project, a progress report on a problem like poor network bandwidth, or a status report on a project like a one-to-one computer implementation or technology staff development program. The emphasis in this Thoughtful Problem is the clarity, explanation and persuasion that may be necessary for the report to be effective. Keep in mind that the report may be given to each school board director or to newspaper and television reporters.
Response:A report on one to one computer implementation in a middle school.
This report conveys the impact of one to one computer implementation on the students. Reviewing Formative and summative revolution through qualitative and quantitative methods we got a clear evidence of this program. The goal of the program was the overall development in all subjects.
Different students and teachers survey results show that this program has had a substantial impact on their instruction. Students’ attitudes and perceptions has been changed after the laptop integration. Students are very excited and involved in study more than ever before. Survey results show that their writing skills have been developed and their technology skill has been developed undoubtedly. Teachers have developed technology skills after attending in workshops and through other professional development. Their teaching has been effective than ever before. Teachers’ reports show increase in students motivation, attendance and class participation, particularly for at risk students. Compared to previous grades in different subjects, after technology implementation and full fledged laptop utilization, students’ grades in all subject areas have been improved. Laptop initiative in grade 6-8 enhances students’ motivation, facilitates group work, helps to analyze data immediately during lab exercise, helps to conduct scientific investigation in the field rather than in the classroom. It inspires students’ creativity through projects and presentation. It is a shift to student centered classroom and develop a sustainable academic achievement. Therefore,it has a positive impact on students’ learning and achievements.
Drawbacks: Some teachers express that they need direct technical support for their laptops in a daily basis. Majority of teachers suggests that the lack of technical support on a regular basis really hinders the potentiality of laptops. Sometimes students’ misbehavior concerning misusing laptops is prohibited from the use of laptops and that affects students learning. Equity issue, possibilities of theft, vandalism and accidental damages are the greatest concern that should be taken care of. Added costs of hardware, network costs, technical support conditions and faculty training are the greatest obstacles.
As one to one Laptop program is new and in progress, equitable access, costs, security are challenging for this school. Narrowing Digital divide and digital disconnect are the solution for this problem. When student has high speed access to a digital assistant at school and at home, their research, writing, calculations, presentation, problem solving are likely to be better organized. Similarly,high quality professional development should get first priotity, it can develop world of possibilities for instruction and self guided learning. The bottomline is that even though the evaluation of this program conveys a positive impact on students' overall achievement, but still there is a lot of potentiality exists in this program regarding students' progress.
2. Choose a technology topic that interests you. Imagine that your superintendent has requested a report from you on this topic. In 3-5 paragraphs write a clear explanatory report. The report may concern a proposal for a new project, a progress report on a problem like poor network bandwidth, or a status report on a project like a one-to-one computer implementation or technology staff development program. The emphasis in this Thoughtful Problem is the clarity, explanation and persuasion that may be necessary for the report to be effective. Keep in mind that the report may be given to each school board director or to newspaper and television reporters.
Response:A report on one to one computer implementation in a middle school.
This report conveys the impact of one to one computer implementation on the students. Reviewing Formative and summative revolution through qualitative and quantitative methods we got a clear evidence of this program. The goal of the program was the overall development in all subjects.
Different students and teachers survey results show that this program has had a substantial impact on their instruction. Students’ attitudes and perceptions has been changed after the laptop integration. Students are very excited and involved in study more than ever before. Survey results show that their writing skills have been developed and their technology skill has been developed undoubtedly. Teachers have developed technology skills after attending in workshops and through other professional development. Their teaching has been effective than ever before. Teachers’ reports show increase in students motivation, attendance and class participation, particularly for at risk students. Compared to previous grades in different subjects, after technology implementation and full fledged laptop utilization, students’ grades in all subject areas have been improved. Laptop initiative in grade 6-8 enhances students’ motivation, facilitates group work, helps to analyze data immediately during lab exercise, helps to conduct scientific investigation in the field rather than in the classroom. It inspires students’ creativity through projects and presentation. It is a shift to student centered classroom and develop a sustainable academic achievement. Therefore,it has a positive impact on students’ learning and achievements.
Drawbacks: Some teachers express that they need direct technical support for their laptops in a daily basis. Majority of teachers suggests that the lack of technical support on a regular basis really hinders the potentiality of laptops. Sometimes students’ misbehavior concerning misusing laptops is prohibited from the use of laptops and that affects students learning. Equity issue, possibilities of theft, vandalism and accidental damages are the greatest concern that should be taken care of. Added costs of hardware, network costs, technical support conditions and faculty training are the greatest obstacles.
As one to one Laptop program is new and in progress, equitable access, costs, security are challenging for this school. Narrowing Digital divide and digital disconnect are the solution for this problem. When student has high speed access to a digital assistant at school and at home, their research, writing, calculations, presentation, problem solving are likely to be better organized. Similarly,high quality professional development should get first priotity, it can develop world of possibilities for instruction and self guided learning. The bottomline is that even though the evaluation of this program conveys a positive impact on students' overall achievement, but still there is a lot of potentiality exists in this program regarding students' progress.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Wiki book writing
As I mentioned earlier, I tried to improve the first section of purchasing as well as receiving section by writing and specifying in more detail. I included flow charts in both sections, "researching technology purchasing" and "receiving" section, because those flow charts gives any lay person an idea about whole purchasing process of a school district.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Wiki book updates
As I started "Researching Technology purchases" section first, I am now trying to finish this section perfectly. I edited a few part and included some in there. I touched just to the point, but now I think I should write it little elaborately. However, I am focusing on this section as well as "Receiving" section and will try to do my best.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Wiki book update
This week I did research about receiving technology. I found one Website about Inventory management software and I included the URL in our Wikibook. I am still thinking about what I can add in our Purchaising section.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Thoughtful Problem #9
You are asked to prepare a proposal for a Classrooms for the Future grant to provide laptop computers for each student in every high school Math, Science, Social Studies and English class. Your district administration wants this grant so that it doesn't have to purchase new computers with its own money and so that the district will appear to be progressive and competent. The administration sees this as a technology project rather than an education project. The state grant, however, requires that you develop clear educational goals, a reasonable implementation plan, and an effective evaluation plan for the project. In three-to-five paragraphs describe:
1. The educational goals of the project, how they were chosen and why they are important.
2. An implementation plan of how the teachers will be trained and how the laptops will be phased into the classrooms over months or years.
3. An evaluation plan that includes both formative and summative evaluation of the project to determine how well it has met its educational goals (with an appropriate rubric, if possible).
Response: The educational goals of the project: Goal of the classroom for the future falls into two categories: Educational and Technological. In terms of educational impact, how technology enhance teaching and learning.process.
1. First we have to understand the unique needs of high school students and understand the positive impact of these technologies. In today’s society every student need 21 century skills- the interaction, collaboration skill, higher order thinking skill, technology skill and leadership skill. Laptops for every students can provide that skills, so that they can attend in collaborative group project, hands on activities to grasp science concept and mathematical concept, video making, podcast making for language class, visual representation for social studies and science class.
2. It develops sustainable learning when students can connect their study with real world scenario.
3. It can improve their overall academic standard.
Implementation plan: If it is a 3 year plan, then planning will be set in this way- First year for 12 grade, 2nd year for 11 th grade and last year for 9th and 10th grade students. Laptops are only one device, but it needs so many supports or accessories like instructional software, its applications, network infrastructure, ongoing and significant Professional development, classroom management, security. Therefore,Implementation includes Infrastructure planning, PD, Help desk support, maintenance.
Laptop means wireless connectivity and mobility, building infrastructure, staffing, ongoing funding for implementation. All stakeholders must involve in the implementation. An customizable computing environment must have that connects students, teachers, staff and parents.
Professional development for teachers is necessary . During summer time of the first year, an workshop can be arranged for most interested teachers . In the same time of the following years PD can be arranged for other teachers. Online PD can be arranged for some interested teachers who own a personal computer with high speed Internet connection. Through ongoing mentoring and workshops professional development will be effective. During school hours, during off periods ongoing training can be arranged for a short while.
Evaluation: The study will help to determine what impacts computers are having upon learning and will document how and when laptops are being used.
Formative assessment : It means ongoing assessment throughout the years. During implementation stage, students and teachers can fill up a form of self evaluation periodically. Comparison of periodical class test , students’ grade also show an impact of technology in education.
Summative assessment: It means at the end of the implementation, overall student’ impact on technology. Standardized tests reveal mostly students’ achievement or development by applying technology in their education. We can also evaluate technological impact on learning through classroom activities as well as the study of data collection from the questionnaire and interviews, students’ records and product records.
1. The educational goals of the project, how they were chosen and why they are important.
2. An implementation plan of how the teachers will be trained and how the laptops will be phased into the classrooms over months or years.
3. An evaluation plan that includes both formative and summative evaluation of the project to determine how well it has met its educational goals (with an appropriate rubric, if possible).
Response: The educational goals of the project: Goal of the classroom for the future falls into two categories: Educational and Technological. In terms of educational impact, how technology enhance teaching and learning.process.
1. First we have to understand the unique needs of high school students and understand the positive impact of these technologies. In today’s society every student need 21 century skills- the interaction, collaboration skill, higher order thinking skill, technology skill and leadership skill. Laptops for every students can provide that skills, so that they can attend in collaborative group project, hands on activities to grasp science concept and mathematical concept, video making, podcast making for language class, visual representation for social studies and science class.
2. It develops sustainable learning when students can connect their study with real world scenario.
3. It can improve their overall academic standard.
Implementation plan: If it is a 3 year plan, then planning will be set in this way- First year for 12 grade, 2nd year for 11 th grade and last year for 9th and 10th grade students. Laptops are only one device, but it needs so many supports or accessories like instructional software, its applications, network infrastructure, ongoing and significant Professional development, classroom management, security. Therefore,Implementation includes Infrastructure planning, PD, Help desk support, maintenance.
Laptop means wireless connectivity and mobility, building infrastructure, staffing, ongoing funding for implementation. All stakeholders must involve in the implementation. An customizable computing environment must have that connects students, teachers, staff and parents.
Professional development for teachers is necessary . During summer time of the first year, an workshop can be arranged for most interested teachers . In the same time of the following years PD can be arranged for other teachers. Online PD can be arranged for some interested teachers who own a personal computer with high speed Internet connection. Through ongoing mentoring and workshops professional development will be effective. During school hours, during off periods ongoing training can be arranged for a short while.
Evaluation: The study will help to determine what impacts computers are having upon learning and will document how and when laptops are being used.
Formative assessment : It means ongoing assessment throughout the years. During implementation stage, students and teachers can fill up a form of self evaluation periodically. Comparison of periodical class test , students’ grade also show an impact of technology in education.
Summative assessment: It means at the end of the implementation, overall student’ impact on technology. Standardized tests reveal mostly students’ achievement or development by applying technology in their education. We can also evaluate technological impact on learning through classroom activities as well as the study of data collection from the questionnaire and interviews, students’ records and product records.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Wikibook update
After digging into Web resources about receiving technology, I finally have contributed some writing in the 'receiving technology portion of our wiki book. I may edit it later, if it is needed and I will provide URL of the resources.
Thoughtful Problem #8
Some teachers have complained of students listening to iPods and text messaging on their cell phones during class. Students believe the offenders should be punished, but all students should not have to pay for the misbehavior of a few. As Technology Coordinator, you are asked to develop a school policy to address student use of portable electronic devices. In three-to-five paragraphs, describe the two points of view and the reasons to be more restrictive or less restrictive of portable electronic devices. Conclude with your policy recommendation to the school board and the reasons for your specific recommendation.
Response: Electronic devices are useful to everybody, if it is used in proper way.Younger students tend to misuse electronic portable devices and it can bring so many hazards mentally and physically. Particularly children under age 14, they are innocent, most of them are fond of amusement and entertainment. Very few schools are using ipods for learning purpose.
Some schools and administrators create a policy that restricts to the use of Portable electronic devices. Cell phones and ipods are banned inside the school in many states. If any student is found in violation of this policy, he or she will be suspended from their school. Some school allows only handicapped students to use portable pagers for medical reason. They are more restrictive, because of so many reasons. Most of the time, these portable devices distract classroom teachers and students from teaching and learning. Instead of concentrating in understanding critical concepts or learning, students engage in instant messaging between students and listening music in ipods. In some cases, school security issue may arise in terms of using portable device. According to Allentown school district report, any communication devices are found not only disruptive, but also to some extent, contributing to illegal purposes like alcohol and drug abuse.
School administrators are trying to create a policy that maintains a balance between students’ rights and potential distraction in classroom teaching and learning. Some schools ban pagers, cell phones in the schools, but allow palm pilots. Others allow these devices using in the school compound or outside of the classroom or school event, but prohibit students from using the classroom. Some schools allow students carry cell phone, but they have to turn of during school time. Most cases, Parents are concerned about students before and after school, that is why they want them to have cell phone or other communication device. Some schools mostly secondary school teachers nowadays tend to use the portable devices for collaborating project work purpose. Some research organization concludes that wireless portable device is a necessity rather than convenience.
As a technology coordinator, I recommend a policy to the school board that cell phones or other portable devices should not be band from school compound, these devices must be turned of not only during the class, unless there is any connection of teaching and learning, but also during school hours. In terms of necessity, it can only use for emergency purpose. I want to create a policy that can maintain a balance between students’ rights and potential disruption in classroom. If students use portable devices during class without any necessary reason, they must be subjected to be suspended from the school for couple of days.
The reason behind my policy is that if any parents are concerned about students before and after school, they can track themselves only. Younger children tend to misuse electronic devices by listening music and writing or getting instant messages during class period and school hour, it is annoying for the teachers and it can hamper learning.
Response: Electronic devices are useful to everybody, if it is used in proper way.Younger students tend to misuse electronic portable devices and it can bring so many hazards mentally and physically. Particularly children under age 14, they are innocent, most of them are fond of amusement and entertainment. Very few schools are using ipods for learning purpose.
Some schools and administrators create a policy that restricts to the use of Portable electronic devices. Cell phones and ipods are banned inside the school in many states. If any student is found in violation of this policy, he or she will be suspended from their school. Some school allows only handicapped students to use portable pagers for medical reason. They are more restrictive, because of so many reasons. Most of the time, these portable devices distract classroom teachers and students from teaching and learning. Instead of concentrating in understanding critical concepts or learning, students engage in instant messaging between students and listening music in ipods. In some cases, school security issue may arise in terms of using portable device. According to Allentown school district report, any communication devices are found not only disruptive, but also to some extent, contributing to illegal purposes like alcohol and drug abuse.
School administrators are trying to create a policy that maintains a balance between students’ rights and potential distraction in classroom teaching and learning. Some schools ban pagers, cell phones in the schools, but allow palm pilots. Others allow these devices using in the school compound or outside of the classroom or school event, but prohibit students from using the classroom. Some schools allow students carry cell phone, but they have to turn of during school time. Most cases, Parents are concerned about students before and after school, that is why they want them to have cell phone or other communication device. Some schools mostly secondary school teachers nowadays tend to use the portable devices for collaborating project work purpose. Some research organization concludes that wireless portable device is a necessity rather than convenience.
As a technology coordinator, I recommend a policy to the school board that cell phones or other portable devices should not be band from school compound, these devices must be turned of not only during the class, unless there is any connection of teaching and learning, but also during school hours. In terms of necessity, it can only use for emergency purpose. I want to create a policy that can maintain a balance between students’ rights and potential disruption in classroom. If students use portable devices during class without any necessary reason, they must be subjected to be suspended from the school for couple of days.
The reason behind my policy is that if any parents are concerned about students before and after school, they can track themselves only. Younger children tend to misuse electronic devices by listening music and writing or getting instant messages during class period and school hour, it is annoying for the teachers and it can hamper learning.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Wiki book writing
I catagorized the subheadings of 'receiving technology' section. I added some in receiving shipment portion after reviewing class presentation and viewing Web resources, since I have the responsibility to finish the 'receiving technology' portion.
Thoughtful Problem #7
The core mission of any school is to promote powerful learning through effective teaching. As technology director, you are responsible for systems that are directly related to this core mission of teaching and learning such as Internet access, student reporting and curriculum systems. You are also responsible for systems that relate to student safety, finance and personnel that are fundamental to running the institution on a daily basis. You are told that network-related issues, perhaps virus-related, are interrupting the operation of all major systems.
Which systems do you try to stabilize and restore to service first? Why? What systems might be your second priority? Which systems would have a lower priority. Answer in 3-5 paragraphs using systems that provide clear examples and choices (you don't need to discuss lots of enterprise or auxiliary systems).
Response: If network related issues are interrupting the operation of all major systems, immediately as a Technology Director, I should plan for an emergency meeting and decide to manage the systems of all throughout the school district. If my school district has Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), with this I can monitor network performance, audit network uses, detect network fault like virus. It continues working when most other network application fails.
As a technology director, I am responsible for all systems throughout the school district. If some virus-related, network related issues interrupt the operation of all major systems, obviously first I will focus on the security and emergency serving system. To run a school on a daily basis, I will give priority first on the students’ need. For that matter, fire alarming system, blue light, emergency phone service should work first as well as security that includes camera and ID cards/scanners should work as well. As Safari Live Server and Web Server are actually paranoid with security system, it should be taken care of with a great importance.
Next, Heating,Ventilation and Air conditioning (HVAC) system should work properly because it can take care of comfort of students and teachers as well as other staffs. Computers and other machines will be protected by using HVAC as well. Telephone system should work properly through out the school district.
Third priority will be database management system which includes students’ records, teachers’ payroll. By using proper back up procedure, I can prevent loosing important data in our school district’s computers.
Lastly, library systems, vehicle diagnostic system, Course Content Management System (CMS) will be taken care of.
Which systems do you try to stabilize and restore to service first? Why? What systems might be your second priority? Which systems would have a lower priority. Answer in 3-5 paragraphs using systems that provide clear examples and choices (you don't need to discuss lots of enterprise or auxiliary systems).
Response: If network related issues are interrupting the operation of all major systems, immediately as a Technology Director, I should plan for an emergency meeting and decide to manage the systems of all throughout the school district. If my school district has Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), with this I can monitor network performance, audit network uses, detect network fault like virus. It continues working when most other network application fails.
As a technology director, I am responsible for all systems throughout the school district. If some virus-related, network related issues interrupt the operation of all major systems, obviously first I will focus on the security and emergency serving system. To run a school on a daily basis, I will give priority first on the students’ need. For that matter, fire alarming system, blue light, emergency phone service should work first as well as security that includes camera and ID cards/scanners should work as well. As Safari Live Server and Web Server are actually paranoid with security system, it should be taken care of with a great importance.
Next, Heating,Ventilation and Air conditioning (HVAC) system should work properly because it can take care of comfort of students and teachers as well as other staffs. Computers and other machines will be protected by using HVAC as well. Telephone system should work properly through out the school district.
Third priority will be database management system which includes students’ records, teachers’ payroll. By using proper back up procedure, I can prevent loosing important data in our school district’s computers.
Lastly, library systems, vehicle diagnostic system, Course Content Management System (CMS) will be taken care of.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
TP #6
Congratulations! You are the new Technology Director of a school district that has outsourced all technology support services in the past. You believe that your district needs its own technology department to address technology needs effectively and economically. The most expensive part of your department will be staff. Do a web search to see how other schools staff their technology departments. Find at websites that help you address the topic.
Thoughtful Problem #6 question - In three-to-five paragraphs, describe the jobs, tasks qualifications of the kinds of staff you will need. List no more than three websites you found helpful. (Alternative: you may choose a different aspect of maintenance and support using the same scenario.)
I found Bethlehem Area school district website that provides a good resource about technology staffing. http://www.beth.k12.pa.us/technology/it/staff.html
Department of Information technology in BASD is broken into two areas- Department of information technology and data processing. Department of information technology is Responsible for curriculum applications of technology, classroom technology ,data network and network security, service and repair, technology support, telephony and others. Director of Technology, Supervisor of academic computing, Technology Integration specialists, classroom technology, Support technologists, Network supervisor, Network assistant,- responsible for data network and network security, Technical assistant.
Developer and administrator of special systems/ webmaster, Database administrator for student systems/ financial system/- Data operators : They are individually responsible for student management system including report cards and attendance, HR/ financial management systems, internal and external web services and real estate taxes among others.
I could n’t find any other school district like this. Some school districts have helpdesktop support technicians.
As a new Technology Director of a school district, I need to create job description and to determine salary and benefits of other technology staff. In today’s perspective, we need to find specialized expertise. I prefer the BASD technology staff distribution and their job distribution.
In my view, the position of other technology staffs will be as follows-
1. Technology Integration specialists: Responsible for curriculum applications of technology, classroom technology. Qualification: B.Ed. Tech degree.
2. Network supervisor, Network assistant will be responsible for data network and network security. Qualifications: High school graduate with network specialization certificate.
3. Technical assistant will perform technology installation, maintenance and trouble shooting duties. Qualification: High school diploma or equivalent, additional qualification particularly technical education.
4. Technical services (services and repair) will be responsible for services and repair technology. Qualification: High school graduate with technical education certificate.
5. Database administrator for student systems/ financial system/- Data operators will be responsible for database management.
Thoughtful Problem #6 question - In three-to-five paragraphs, describe the jobs, tasks qualifications of the kinds of staff you will need. List no more than three websites you found helpful. (Alternative: you may choose a different aspect of maintenance and support using the same scenario.)
I found Bethlehem Area school district website that provides a good resource about technology staffing. http://www.beth.k12.pa.us/technology/it/staff.html
Department of Information technology in BASD is broken into two areas- Department of information technology and data processing. Department of information technology is Responsible for curriculum applications of technology, classroom technology ,data network and network security, service and repair, technology support, telephony and others. Director of Technology, Supervisor of academic computing, Technology Integration specialists, classroom technology, Support technologists, Network supervisor, Network assistant,- responsible for data network and network security, Technical assistant.
Developer and administrator of special systems/ webmaster, Database administrator for student systems/ financial system/- Data operators : They are individually responsible for student management system including report cards and attendance, HR/ financial management systems, internal and external web services and real estate taxes among others.
I could n’t find any other school district like this. Some school districts have helpdesktop support technicians.
As a new Technology Director of a school district, I need to create job description and to determine salary and benefits of other technology staff. In today’s perspective, we need to find specialized expertise. I prefer the BASD technology staff distribution and their job distribution.
In my view, the position of other technology staffs will be as follows-
1. Technology Integration specialists: Responsible for curriculum applications of technology, classroom technology. Qualification: B.Ed. Tech degree.
2. Network supervisor, Network assistant will be responsible for data network and network security. Qualifications: High school graduate with network specialization certificate.
3. Technical assistant will perform technology installation, maintenance and trouble shooting duties. Qualification: High school diploma or equivalent, additional qualification particularly technical education.
4. Technical services (services and repair) will be responsible for services and repair technology. Qualification: High school graduate with technical education certificate.
5. Database administrator for student systems/ financial system/- Data operators will be responsible for database management.
Wiki book writing
I went through a couple of Web pages to research about purchasing. Today I have added some in the bidding process section just to contribute something after so many days. Contribution in the Wiki book makes me partly enthusiastic and partly hesitant.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Thoughtful Problem #5: Cloning or Imaging
You have been hired as a technology director for a school district that uses an operating system that is not your main area of expertise. Research the topic "imaging" or "cloning" to see how you might rapidly clone a new shipment of 500 laptops. Pay attention to cost, time and expertise. In three-to-five paragraphs, describe your options, why you chose the option you did, and what problems you may expect with that choice.
First I have to copy the complete hard drive as an image to one computer, then I can install it on as many other computers as necessary. To do so, I have to buy a cloning software. Ghost is a disk cloning software which enable to copy the image of hard Drive. Ghost verson 4 added multicust technology that allows sending a single image simultaneously to many machines without putting greater stress on the network than by sending a image by single machine. Standalone cloning takes much longer, I can clone one PC at a time. Multitask method is fast , it takes an hour to multicast 350M of data across the network. If I have Ethernet LAN, I can use one floppy disk for each computer that accepts cloned software.
One possible process can be, after shipment of new 500 laptops (for example Windows), I have to set up XP configuration for each computer. I have to install operating system for all computers first. Then one cloning software will clone end to end image of file system, hard disk of first computer and the whole process will take at least 10 hours for one computer. Cloning of remaining computer takes one hour for each computer at a time.
Otherwise, after shipment of new 500 laptops( for example Mac), by hiring some technology person from the company like Apple who can use cloning software like Norton Ghost to copy the image of operating system, application software of one computer, then clone the first disk or image to the remaining 499 computers. At least 20 computers can image at a time with the multicasting technology I guess. This processing can save more time than previous process. But if I have Ethernet LAN, using floppy disk to each computer can save more time than before, because many computers can clone at a time.
First I have to copy the complete hard drive as an image to one computer, then I can install it on as many other computers as necessary. To do so, I have to buy a cloning software. Ghost is a disk cloning software which enable to copy the image of hard Drive. Ghost verson 4 added multicust technology that allows sending a single image simultaneously to many machines without putting greater stress on the network than by sending a image by single machine. Standalone cloning takes much longer, I can clone one PC at a time. Multitask method is fast , it takes an hour to multicast 350M of data across the network. If I have Ethernet LAN, I can use one floppy disk for each computer that accepts cloned software.
One possible process can be, after shipment of new 500 laptops (for example Windows), I have to set up XP configuration for each computer. I have to install operating system for all computers first. Then one cloning software will clone end to end image of file system, hard disk of first computer and the whole process will take at least 10 hours for one computer. Cloning of remaining computer takes one hour for each computer at a time.
Otherwise, after shipment of new 500 laptops( for example Mac), by hiring some technology person from the company like Apple who can use cloning software like Norton Ghost to copy the image of operating system, application software of one computer, then clone the first disk or image to the remaining 499 computers. At least 20 computers can image at a time with the multicasting technology I guess. This processing can save more time than previous process. But if I have Ethernet LAN, using floppy disk to each computer can save more time than before, because many computers can clone at a time.
Wiki book writing
Today I wrote someting in 'Purchase Order' subsection. You can not see my name in the history, because I faced problem to log in. I just clicked edit, wrote and published it. It is a good experice to contribute something in a text book. I am still researching what should I write more on 'Purchase Order' section.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Thoughtful Problem #4 - Wikibook Thinking and Planning
So far we've discussed technology budgeting, funding and purchasing. What are the most important things you want to convey to future technology directors? What was hardest for you to understand? Maybe that will be hardest to make clear to a reader. What should be covered in depth and what should not be covered in depth? What knowledge would most help you in a Technology Director position? Discuss these questions in three-to-five paragraphs
The most important things I want to convey to future technology directors that Tech director is the responsible person and tech director has to be aware of new technology for education as well as how to implement new technology in school, how to suit that technology in the school curriculum. He or she has to take a leadership for budgeting, purchasing, maintaining and evaluating technology for his or her school. He or she has to work collaboratively with other staffs of the school and school district, so in order to be successful, he or she must have good interpersonal skill and communication skill.
Budgeting and grant writing was the hardest part for me to understand. Coding structure is complicated and pursuing it to business personnel seems to me a hard part. Particularly grant writing is very tough job for tech coordinator for school. Successful grant writing must require motivating writing skill to fit for competitive grants. In addition, good interpersonal and management skill as well as connection with the grant agency are required to obtain money for school.
Future technology coordinator must keep in mind that the goal of their job is to fulfill the student centered learning. They should keep in mind that Education is not a business. In my view, in terms of purchasing, how to cope with vendors and handle bidding should be illustrated in more detail.
The most important things I want to convey to future technology directors that Tech director is the responsible person and tech director has to be aware of new technology for education as well as how to implement new technology in school, how to suit that technology in the school curriculum. He or she has to take a leadership for budgeting, purchasing, maintaining and evaluating technology for his or her school. He or she has to work collaboratively with other staffs of the school and school district, so in order to be successful, he or she must have good interpersonal skill and communication skill.
Budgeting and grant writing was the hardest part for me to understand. Coding structure is complicated and pursuing it to business personnel seems to me a hard part. Particularly grant writing is very tough job for tech coordinator for school. Successful grant writing must require motivating writing skill to fit for competitive grants. In addition, good interpersonal and management skill as well as connection with the grant agency are required to obtain money for school.
Future technology coordinator must keep in mind that the goal of their job is to fulfill the student centered learning. They should keep in mind that Education is not a business. In my view, in terms of purchasing, how to cope with vendors and handle bidding should be illustrated in more detail.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Thoughtful Problem #3
Think of a project for a real or imaginary school. Use the Grantwriting exercise sheet to help you plan a grant to fund your project.
1. Describe the project, its purpose, its intended participants and its expected goals/objectives
2. Explain the division of funding sources you would like among budget, e-rate and grants
3. Find a suitable grant agency and describe why that agency would be interested in funding your project.
My project will be 'Community Atlas Project' in which middle school students will produce a community profile, an electronic project containing maps and information showing important aspects of the community with the help of Geographic Information system (GIS) software. The middle school students will need to explore the data and discover patterns and characteristics of their neighborhoods. They will need to build their spatial and analytical skills. They will need to develop the process of geographic thinking. Those are – think about a place, ask a question about it, gather information, explore the patterns, analyze the data and act on the analysis. This process goes around the circle.
Goals- The middle school students will have proficiency using GIS software and will develop spatial thinking and critical thinking capability as well as an awareness of their community.
Objectives: Through the US community Atlas project teachers and students define the nature of their community, post description and maps about it. These presentations are combined in the web server, can be served by characteristic and explored for similarities and differences.
The division of funding sources: A part of funding comes from school budget, like GIS training for the teachers. Licensing and cost for GIS software comes from ESRI (Environmental System Research Institute) grant funding and the cost of networking service comes from E-rate funding.
ESRI grant agency will provide funding for this project. ESRI announces the grant option for the ESRI GIS grant program to support geospatial outreach, education and community involvement efforts. The goal of the program is to foster and support the integration of the geographic information system.
1. Describe the project, its purpose, its intended participants and its expected goals/objectives
2. Explain the division of funding sources you would like among budget, e-rate and grants
3. Find a suitable grant agency and describe why that agency would be interested in funding your project.
My project will be 'Community Atlas Project' in which middle school students will produce a community profile, an electronic project containing maps and information showing important aspects of the community with the help of Geographic Information system (GIS) software. The middle school students will need to explore the data and discover patterns and characteristics of their neighborhoods. They will need to build their spatial and analytical skills. They will need to develop the process of geographic thinking. Those are – think about a place, ask a question about it, gather information, explore the patterns, analyze the data and act on the analysis. This process goes around the circle.
Goals- The middle school students will have proficiency using GIS software and will develop spatial thinking and critical thinking capability as well as an awareness of their community.
Objectives: Through the US community Atlas project teachers and students define the nature of their community, post description and maps about it. These presentations are combined in the web server, can be served by characteristic and explored for similarities and differences.
The division of funding sources: A part of funding comes from school budget, like GIS training for the teachers. Licensing and cost for GIS software comes from ESRI (Environmental System Research Institute) grant funding and the cost of networking service comes from E-rate funding.
ESRI grant agency will provide funding for this project. ESRI announces the grant option for the ESRI GIS grant program to support geospatial outreach, education and community involvement efforts. The goal of the program is to foster and support the integration of the geographic information system.
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
TP#1
In today’s society, technology is the part and parcel in every aspect of our lives. Obviously I am interested to know all the technology related work, particularly web design and development. Whatever design comes in my mind and what thoughts come to my mind regarding educational aspect I can express and show to the world. The key thought of Instructional technology is the engaged learning. In order to success in life, learner should be engaged in learning and it is the technology what makes this happen. Therefore, as I believe in constructivism, being a teacher, I would like to apply this in my classroom.
In today’s society, every educational institution needs technological expertise. Being a media or technology specialist, I will help my organization to develop an educational website for my institution and create movies, podcasts, etc, I will be happy to do that. Being interested in designing, capturing real life educational documents as well as being able to work cooperatively and collaboratively, media or technology specialist position in a school is best suited for me.
The biggest challenge in such a position will be that I have to always keep myself updated in terms of technology as well as I have to be fluent in technology. I have to be aware of the current scenario of the school in terms of financial, political, educational curriculum and social situation.
On the other hand, I would like to be a social studies teacher in a school, as I am interested in Geographical information system and I would like to apply this in my classroom. I would also like to create stand alone interactive instructional strategies for the kids.
The biggest challenge in such a position in terms of my interest will not be always fulfill, because this software is costly, some school can not afford it. Equity issue will also arise regarding students’ Internet access.
In today’s society, every educational institution needs technological expertise. Being a media or technology specialist, I will help my organization to develop an educational website for my institution and create movies, podcasts, etc, I will be happy to do that. Being interested in designing, capturing real life educational documents as well as being able to work cooperatively and collaboratively, media or technology specialist position in a school is best suited for me.
The biggest challenge in such a position will be that I have to always keep myself updated in terms of technology as well as I have to be fluent in technology. I have to be aware of the current scenario of the school in terms of financial, political, educational curriculum and social situation.
On the other hand, I would like to be a social studies teacher in a school, as I am interested in Geographical information system and I would like to apply this in my classroom. I would also like to create stand alone interactive instructional strategies for the kids.
The biggest challenge in such a position in terms of my interest will not be always fulfill, because this software is costly, some school can not afford it. Equity issue will also arise regarding students’ Internet access.
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