Technology Assessment and Planning

Network design is critical to mapping the computing needs for an individual school and whole district.  In order to design a network many factors need to be considered. The following is the process of design for a ficticious Middle School --Paterno Middle School designed by the team of: Lance Burnell, Mary Meisel, Steve White, Kristin Hokanson, and Nicole Kneisley during the summer of 2005.

Case Study: Paterno Middle School

As of summer of 2005 in Upper Merion Area School District, over 100 classrooms were designated as "eclassrooms" with the technology infrastructure to provide for a greater degree of student use and curricular integration. These "e-classrooms" are equipped with multiple internet lines, LCD projectosr, and additional equipment such as CPS and SmartBoards etc. Annually, a needs assessment survey is distributed to all staff. The results are then assessed by building and grade level (and subject area in the upper grades) in order to gain insight into staff needs.  To ensure that our professional staff is prepared to use emerging technologies effectively as well asa to increase the number of "e-classrooms" and add additional equipment in existing "e-classrooms" it is important to provide a high level of support and ongoing training. This survey is designed to do just that.