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.