Dear Mr. Summers,
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?
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
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.
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)?
Batavia, Illinois
suelu@inil.com