Jan-Marie Kellow

"....Computers are not rescuing the school from a weak curriculum, any more than putting pianos in every classroom would rescue a flawed music program. Wonderful learning can occur without computers or even paper. But once the teachers and children are enfranchised as explorers, computers, like pianos, can serve as powerful amplifiers, extending the reach and depth of the learners." Alan Kay

“When schools put the cart before the horse - buying technology for the sake of technology without asking critical questions about purpose, use and the classroom impact of such tools - they are inviting disappointment.” Jamie McKenzie

Computer Ratios 1:5 in the classroom 1:3 / 1:2 using COWS/shared laptops

Desktops vs Laptops Minus Fixed Large footprint Not usually wireless Plus 5-6 yr lifespan Lower cost Faster processor Harder to steal Quick to use Desktops

Desktops vs Laptops Plus Portability Flexible groups Space Minus Cost 3 year life Less robust Battery life Less ergonomic Slower processor Expensive to repair Laptops

Netbooks Plus Small size Light/Very Portable Sized for small hands Longer battery life Lower cost Minus Only slightly cheaper Limited capability Less powerful Small screen No CD drive

Software “The TELA Laptops for Teachers and Laptops for Principals Scheme is transitioning from its current Microsoft Windows XP and Microsoft Office 2003 standard software environment to Microsoft Windows 7 Enterprise and Microsoft Office Transition date: 11th October 2010.”

Wireless Additional to cabled access Flexible But Slower A little less reliable – pay for quality

Other Considerations Filter? Cost of upkeep Cost of replacement

Lease vs Buy Leasing Fixed cost Replacement Repairs covered Insurance Buying Cheaper Need to plan replacement Non-warranty repairs cost

Digital Cameras

Data Projector Essential! Ceiling mounted Short throw? Consider leasing Ministry options/info Filters 3 year life – 2 nd bulb - replace

Data Projector Things to consider: Cost of replacement bulbs. Lamp Life - Look for at least 2000hrs of lamp life. Bulb brightness to suit size of room Need for curtains in room? Ministry site has good info

IWBs Fundraise/ Grants eg Pub charities At least 2 teachers initially if possible You get what you pay for Special offers m

Recommendations : 1:5 ratio of computers in classroom excl. teacher laptop Mixture of desktops & laptops. Wired and wireless. COW – laptops – shared between 2 – 4 classes.

Recommendations: Other ICTs Digital cameras – at least 1 per class Data projector LMS/wiki IWB