Spotsylvania County Public Schools (SCPS) in Virginia uses a document-imaging solution that leverages the features of a multifunction printer (MFP). An MFP is a printer, scanner, fax machine, and copier all rolled into one. It can scan a document and email it all in one easy step. Software is available that allows the MFP to scan bubble sheets and…

Despite the last few years' growth in awareness of open-source software in schools and the potential savings it represents, its widespread adoption is still hampered. Randy Orwin, technology director of the Bainbridge Island School District in Washington State and a strong open-source advocate, cautions that installing an open-source…

Data integration is one of the single most challenging tasks any district can face. Fortunately for school districts throughout the country with data scattered in disparate systems, an open specification known as the Schools Interoperability Framework (SIF) is mitigating that challenge. SIF has emerged as a cornerstone of K-12 data warehousing,…

Outlines a systematic approach for evaluating the needs and potential problems involved when school districts seek to update their current information systems. Considers the following components: financial, technical, computer literacy, and information system management infrastructure. (MLF)

The Portland (Oregon) School District is exploring, developing, and applying new computer systems and software for computer use. The framework for this work is a comprehensive districtwide plan for computer-related technology in the 1990s. (SI)

Open systems are computer systems designed to meet vendor-neutral international standards. Significant characteristics of open systems are portability (software will run on dozens of hardware programs) and interoperability (computers of different brands can be connected and share resources). Discusses options available to switch to an open system.…

School districts are confronted with many decisions about computerization and computer services. Reviews the current landscape of computer hardware and software technology. Presents a computer decision-making process, including a flow chart. (MLF)

Computer system hard drives will fail at some time. Stresses preparing to cope with emergencies that cannot be prevented, including making arrangements for use of an alternative computer in case of system failure. Outlines requirements for a computer environment; explains that backup is the key to disaster recovery. Describes four public domain…

A survey of America's 244 largest school districts, with responses from 215, showed that 28 percent are actively procuring at least 1 of 3 major administrative information systems: financial, human resources, or student information. Describes the installation and use of a new information infrastructure in a Maryland school district. (MLF)

This videotape records a two-hour live teleconference that had over 500 participants and was broadcast on May 8, 1996. The hosts, experienced school network designers, provide examples of school networks, address network design features, and discuss planning considerations that face educators needing to make intelligent decisions about constantly…

This videotape, a two-hour follow-up to the earlier "Get Wired: Designing Your School Network" teleconference, presents issues in implementing and maintaining a network. Program segments on network management, training and professional development, security and access, and growing the network are addressed by a panel of educators from…

In recent years, the widespread availability of networks and the flexibility of Web browsers have shifted the industry from a client-server model to a Web-based one. In the client-server model of computing, clients run applications locally, with the servers managing storage, printing functions, and network traffic. Because every client is…

The Multilevel Evaluation Systems Project at the University of California at Los Angeles Center for Research on Evaluation Standards and Student Testing is investigating the feasibility of developing comprehensive automated information systems that might serve the planning and policy needs of school-based educators, district administrators, and…

To successfully create a Web site, schools and jurisdictions must plan for the site's content, design and development and learn the principles of effective page design. This report contains technical advice on implementing and managing Web site development in schools. Following an introduction which discusses functions of jurisdiction and school…

Describes the development of a wide area network (WAN) in the Bismarck Public School District (North Dakota). Topics include design goals, network infrastructure, implementing library access, sharing resources across platforms, electronic mail, dial-in access, Internet access, adhering to software licenses, shareware and freeware, and monitoring…