The teaching/learning process can be optimized by attention to small details

A Systems Approach to a Technology Rich Learning Environment

A technology plan is required for many reasons, one of which is to document those actions which need to be taken over an extended period of time.  Others are to set a rational order of events, and to facilitate areas of individual responsibility.  The development of a technology plan should include participation from as many members of the organization as possible, as it is the dialog which takes place during the process which provides the real  value. (The reality is that once a "plan" is written and endorsed by the responsible parties, it is rarely read again.  It is therefore imperative that the "plan" contain a supplemental "implementation program", defining individual responsibilities, deliverables and "dates due"). The discussions among all members of the organization offers the opportunity to set priorities, find synergies and provide an understanding of the commitments all must make to ensure success. 

The technology systems which schools are implementing are comprised of a large quantity of hardware and software and related sub-systems. The choices made in any one area will directly impact others and in turn will have implications upon seemingly unrelated aspects of the school's operation. The interactions are not always apparent but every effort must be made to seek them out if design and cost efficiencies are to be realized. Examples of sub-systems are:

• Technology and Communications, which includes the broad breadth of voice, data and video products and services;

• Facilities and Safety, which is comprised of environmental services and controls, fire and safety services, power and plumbing, and all other structural and building support related components;

• Ergonomics, which includes items such as furniture, and the visual, acoustic and environmental impact on the individual product user and the group as a whole;

• Applications, which are the various academic and administrative programs that are applied to meet the needs of the students and school staff; and

• Personnel, comprised of the on-site academic and support staff.

In addition to developing a satisfactory end product, a systems approach to technology offers other advantages, including:

• increased recognition of areas of responsibility;

• increased recognition of student and staff requirements, and the best means to satisfy these needs;

• more accurate and relevant product and service specifications;

• an increased quality level of documentation;

• lower system failure rates;

• increased adherence to schedules;

• minimization of unexpected work efforts;

• increased levels of team cooperation;

• improved predictability of cost....and lower total cost, and

• overall higher probability of program success.

Efficient use of technology in a classroom requires a critical mass of functioning and appropriate hardware, software, networking, and continual teacher training.  As a result, short falls in local, state or federal funding have and will put significant portions of any previous investment at risk.  Going forward there is a need to continually upgrade all components of the total system.  Without substantial multi-year funding  large portions of the nation's prior investment will be placed in  jeopardy.....and with it the quality of future student education.

ITEG, LLC is prepared to support the development and enhancement of strategic and tactical plans ed-tech plans and related implementation programs.  Our experience in this area has included the development of significant initiatives for major corporations, educational facilities and government agencies.   Contact us to discuss the challenge you face.