Instructional and Hardware Needs

Traditional instructional methods have not elevated our students’ test scores nor their academic performance to a level we anticipated. In order for students to reach the grade level standards, incorporating technology across the curriculum is needed to expand their scope of skills, knowledge and problem solving. Through observations, interview, student work samples and evaluation of student test scores, our needs have been identified and divided into three areas:

Instructional
Professional Development
Hardware

Instructional Needs
With the integration and introduction of multi-media technology, classrooms will move from the traditional teacher centered model into a classroom where the teacher is the facilitator and guide. This shift of teacher to facilitator and a well-articulated scope and sequence of technology skills will enhance students ability to achieve educational success. Students will need to focus on multi-media projects, which utilize technology as a tool for:
• problem solving
• research skills
• language proficiency
• presenting information
• collecting and processing data

The above skills can be enhanced through the use of databases, word processing, spread sheet, software programs, Internet access, and interactive presentation software, which are needed to organize, analyze and synthesize data collected by students. These activities are especially important for GATE students who need to have access to activities that test their higher level thinking processes. They are also needed to motivate all students to improve reading, writing and mathematical skills. These programs are needed to help limited English students, special education students and educationally disadvantaged students gain grade level proficiency. Prescriptive programs are needed for students who are not meeting California State standards.

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Professional Development Needs

Teachers need to be trained in the use of all new technology that is provided for student learning. Through seminars, conventions and workshops teachers will see how technology can be used to provide students with an integrated approach to learning. Teachers need to access libraries of audiovisual and textual materials available in computer software and the Internet. Staff members need to be able to develop multimedia presentations in order to integrate learning across the curriculum. The following training is planned to develop technologically literate staff members.
• Developing integrated lesson plans
• Basic word processing
• Creating multi-media presentations
• Internet integration (Research)
• Trouble shooting-basic problems

Equal Access Needs

Implementation of LAN or WAN phases I-IV will allow all students and staff members’ equal access to technology. The Germain budget will be reviewed yearly to assure that at least 5% of the integrated budget will be dedicated to technological needs.

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Hardware Needs

The following list reflects the needs for hardware to complete the vision for technology for Germain Elementary:

1. School-Wide Needs
• Multi-media centers for 45 classrooms
5 computers
Scanner
Printer
CD-RW
Discs and blank CD-ROMs
1 digital camera per grade level (6)
Hubs for each wing and bungalow groups
• Class set of Alpha Smart Boards for each grade level.

2. Computer Lab Needs
• Computers Lab
A. Apply for E-Rate eligibility
a. Wire/fiber, conduit, cabling,, labor, associated connectors, and LAN equipment.
b. Hubs, routers, switches and supporting equipment.
c. Servers
d. Digital line lease charges but not instillation.
e. Internet connection.
f. Software if necessary for system Internet connectivity.
g. Video Teleconferencing equipment if part of network.
B. 31 new computers (500mhz-20gb-128mg RAM)
C. Overhead LCD projector
Rewiring with Ether Cat. 5 cable.
2 ea. 20 port hubs and switch
Server – Pentium III with Xeon, RAID compatible
4 Color Inkjet printer
1 Laserjet b&w printer
Graphics Tablet
Software

3. Teacher Needs
• Teacher workstation
A. 3 computers
B. Scanner
C. Color printer, Laser Jet B&W printer
D. CD-RW
E. Graphics Tablet

4. Library Needs
• Library
A. 5 Computers for Reference Bank
B. 1 Computer for librarian
C. Electronic Checkout System
D. Barcode scanner
E. Various software
F. Flatbed scanner and printer

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