Distribution of Computers in a School

The following is extracted from the Web66 listserv:

Dear Mr. Summers,
I am currently involved in developing a Problem Based Learning problem to address this type of issue. My plan is to have my problem also address the procurement of new computers and the types of equipment and software available. Please keep me informed of the feedback you get.

I am designing this problem based on personal experience and frustrations. My first question is what type if computers are you talking about and what software do they have available.Next I would ask:

What is the range of class sizes in your building? A lab of 20-25 computers is not the best use if most of your classes have 28 -32 students.

Are these all stand alone machines or do they potentially have access to a network (and software on the network)? If so, where are your current access connections to the network located?

Is there the possibility of internet access?
Via a network?
Via modem and phone lines?
If so where are the current connection sites?
What is their capacity and how easily can they be expanded?
I would survey departments for what software they are currently using. How might they utilize additional software and hardware if it were available?
What do they currently use from outside sources (like their personal home computer or laptop)?

I would look at the physical design of the building. Where is there space and secure storage space? Where is there adequate power access? Where is there phone or network access? Where can these be easily added or expanded.

I think rolling carts for half of the computers is a good idea. It adds flexibility and reduces the amount of potential damage done when moving equipment around. Assigning portable computers primarily to specific teachers or groups is helpful. If you add a simple central scheduling system to make them available as part of a temporary lab for special projects, it will be a real bonus. If teachers need to ask/beg multiple teachers to arrange such projects, they just won't happen.

One thing to remember is that teachers often need to use the computers in a confidential setting. Writing finals, entering grades, or Special Education information should not be done in a lab or other area where students can look over their shoulder. It is a real hassle to have to carry all of you papers or reference materials for a test to a remote location to get private access to a computer. If that private area is for teachers only and gives them a place to temporarily store their stuff it is very helpful. While a teacher may intend to do such work in one sitting, other demands often intercede and input may need to be spread over several days. Teachers with regular easy access to technology will use it more often. Also there are definitely peak demand times, like near the end of a term, when all teachers and students seem to need to be online a great deal.

I have given you a lot to think about. If you want to bounce the responses to those questions off of me, I would be happy to reply.

I have worked as a space planner overseeing the installation of computer equipment and support services (electrical, phone lines and mainframe or LAN access, and furniture) for a major corporation. I have been responsible for handicapped accessibility accommodations, and have been involved in LInC (Leadership Institute Integrating the Internet in Instruction and Curriculum .

I am certified in MS Science, MS Social Studies, HS Psychology, and Secondary Behavioral Disorders. I am also looking for a position for the fall term.

Susan White
IPBLN,ChainLInC
Batavia, Illinois
suelu@inil.com