Information+System+Management

Initially, what I expected to learn in this course was the basics on Servers, Networks, and general technical aspects of Information Technology. As I reviewed the course work, however, I learned we would be covering educational based information systems that are the backbone of the school district. Once I got into the lectures and the readings in the course, I better understood the importance of these systems. The embedded assignments within the course, EDLD 5362 Information Systems Management, helped me to appreciate technology more than ever before as I found out how easy an information management system makes the job of compiling and reporting required student and school data to the state. Marta Gott, HPHS Principal of Curriculum, states, “SASI is my primary tool for creating the master schedule, scheduling students, and schedule changes. The other assistant principals use SASI to record discipline and attendance” (Marta Gott, personal conversation, January 25, 2010). Following the interview, I had a new appreciation as to how difficult it is to keep track of all the records and reports a school district most have for the state. I truly was not aware of what an informational management system was comprised of before this course and I have a better understanding of why we document some information in particular ways. I think it would be beneficial to share some of this insight with teachers as well. As with students, if teachers understand the why, they are more likely to put their best efforts forward to comply with requirements in a timely manner. In this course I successfully created a presentation about our local school district technology plan to which I added narration. Prior to that, I only really knew that each classroom should contain 3 data drops, a document camera, teacher workstation, minimum of one student workstation, and overhead projector. This assignment allowed me to discover some of the other unseen components of technology, such as Wi-Fi connectivity and content filters. Budget reports were difficult get since our district has a unique gifting foundation for technology; therefore it really is not about the cost so much as if it works and is the best for the school district. As I spoke with various district personnel, the point that each one emphasized when talking about information management systems was the need to be user friendly and the ability to perform all functions necessary to run a school district. At the time I was taking this course, our district was in the process of switching to a new information management system call Skyward. Since we have just begun the training on Skyward, it’s hard to say whether it is user friendly. Current district employees are now on a new learning curve and could not sincerely evaluate its true ease. Skyward has so many new capabilities that the information has been overwhelming for some. Chris Cunningham, HPHS Web Service Administrator stated, “I know that everyone on the committee that looked at various student information systems was in favor of purchasing Skyward.” (Chris Cunningham, Phone Conversation, January 27, 2010). I personally think it is has some great features, however generating reports has been difficult to learn. The most important requirement in an information management system is a reporting system that is flexible and has the ability to print state-specific reports (McIntyre, 2004). After learning a few tricks about creating and running mass reports, I have helped other teachers streamline the process of generating grade reports. As a coach for the district, I’ve also instructed other coaches on how to generate the UIL eligibility report we all rely on to stay in compliance with the state. Learning these tricks on the new system was really trial and error for me, since most of our professional development training sessions were very short and specific to starting the school year. For example, most teachers just wanted to learn how to set up attendance, and learn how to input grades. It was not until they saw the advantages or need to run reports that they had the desire to learn more. ISTE’s Standards I, V, VI, and VII were addressed in completing the assignment embedded within EDLD 5362, Information Systems Management. An educational technology facilitator must demonstrate an advanced understanding of technology concepts and operations, as ISTE’s Standard I states, which is what the assignments prepared me to do in helping me to understand the concept of information management systems (ISTE, 2001). Before undertaking these assignments, I did not have a clear picture of what a SIS, Student Information System, was. Now, I am able to teach someone else about the concept and the importance of why we need such a system. Training is important and is much needed among educators. It is a must to allocate resources for staff development when transitioning to a new information management system. “Four keys ideas continually surface when it comes to making the most of the SIS technology: leadership, communication, training and more training” (Sausner, 2003, p. 1). I feel that my training needs to be extended as we start the second year with our new system. I would like to understand in detail what reports the state wants the district to have. I feel that this knowledge will be important to know if I want to be an effective Instructional Technologist for a district. As we start into a new school year, I know that there is the re-learning curve that myself and other teachers will have to work through. I know that I’ll have to take time to refresh my skills with the software so that I can effectively help others when they ask, as well as be able to help myself. It is my opinion that if a student or teacher has a support person who can provide guidance along the way, they are more likely to be successful. It is my hope that I can be that mentor for my teachers at the start of the new school year. International Society for Education. (2001). NETS for Technology Facilitators and Leaders. Available from [|www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/NETS/ForTechnologyFacilitatorsandLeaders/Technology_Facilitation_Standards.htm] McIntyre, T. (2004, May). Student information systems demysitified. //Tech and Learning//. Retrieved on July 16, 2011, from [] Sausner,R. (2003, November). Making paperwork fulfilling. //District Administrator//. Retrieved on July 20, 2011, from [] ||
 * ** Information System Management **
 * [|course based reflection wk 2 5362 information system management.doc] **
 * A. ** Analyze district technology after completing interviews with at least two school administrators who are involved with the planning and budgeting of technology.
 * B. ** Students will evaluate and analyze a school district’s Student Information System, including the evaluation of total cost of ownership, feature set, ease of use, customer support, and training. ||
 * **Self-Assessment**
 * Learn as a Learner**
 * Lifelong Learning Skills**
 * Resources**