5.03.2007

Journal 9

Does Your District Need a Technology Audit?
By Howard Pitler

This article discusses what a technology audit is and how it would benefit school districts. A technology audit within a school district would be nothing but a benefit to the school. Audits are not inexpensive, but the cost will be well worth it when done. A technology audit will determine whether the network within the district is technologically efficient. After the audit is complete, suggestions on the processes that are being run within the district should be updated and improved. In the end, a technology audit will ensure that you are maximizing your technology dollars, and aligning your technology instruction with your curriculum, along with a well trained staff, and higher student achievement through technology.

What is a good technology audit?
A good technology audit would be used as an objective and independent tool, and would be used in a constructive manner.

What should you be aware of when choosing an audit service?
Be aware that the service is going to be expensive. Attempt to get the full comprehensive service to ensure that everything has been looked at. Make sure that the audit company is not making their company a one-stop-shop for all solutions. Your solutions should be processes to improve on instead of products.

Journal 8

Virtual Schooling

By Niki Davis and Dale S. Niederhauser

This article talks about virtual schooling, which is quickly climbing the popularity charts around the world. Virtual schooling is a way for students to learn at their own pace; outside of a classroom. Many students learn better in this atmosphere instead of the classic classroom setting. They communicate with teachers in small groups through video conferencing, email, and other internet communicative procedures. Within each remotes school, there is an onsite facilitator and technological coordinator. The facilitator carries out the procedures between administrators and parents and students, while the technological coordinator helps students with any technical difficulties they may be having. Virtual schooling is something that should be considered at every school. Because of the increase in technology, and how much our world relies on technology, why not learn from it as well…

Why should schools have virtual schooling as an option?
Schools should have this option in order to suit the needs of students better. This option is not only a great opportunity to try something new, but it also allows more flexible school hours, along with less transportation. It is slowly becoming a requirement to offer it at schools. Michigan is the first state to put that law into effect.

How popular is virtual schooling becoming?
In 2005 and 2006 the enrollment number of students in virtual schooling increased by 100%.

Journal 7

Digital Citizenship
By Anita McAnear

This article also discusses the importance of students becoming technologically advanced, and at the same level. Digital citizenship gives students the means and knowledge to protect themselves online and learn about the risks and consequences of using the web. Virginia passed a standard to incorporate the teaching of internet safety into the curriculum. This should be followed by other states as well in order to ensure equal opportunity as well as safety. There are many websites that allow parents, teachers, and students to explore and learn about issues concerning safety online and also shows how to incorporate this topic into the classroom with free lesson plans.

What are some of the websites that teach about digital citizenship?
• NetAlert (http://www.netalert.net.au), Australia’s Internet safety advisory body, provides resources for teachers and librarians and advice by grade levels and by risks.
• i-Safe (http://www.isafe.org) for middle school students incorporates classroom curriculum
with community outreach to students, teachers, parents, law enforcement, and concerned adults.
• ID the Creep (http://www.idthecreep.com) is another online simulation for students sponsored by the Ad Council and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
• NetSmartz (http://www.netsmartz.org) uses age appropriate, 3D activities to teach children and teens how to be safer when using the Internet.

What does digital citizenship mean?
Digital citizenship is trying to gain an awareness of technology in regards to social, ethical, and human issues standards. If digital citizenship is accomplished, everyone will know the basics of technology in order to succeed in life.