Technology Infrastructures for K-12 schools
Implementation of the Virtual Computer Lab (VCL) at Wake Tech Community College - Spring 2008
A pilot study and evaluation was conducted at WTCC to evaluate several aspects of VCL implementation. Specifically, we examined student perceptions of the system’s reliability, usability, and access to required technological resources. Additionally, we measured teacher and administrator experiences with the system configuration and operation, and identified potential challenges to successful large-scale implementation. The pilot study was conducted with fifteen sections of an introductory computer technology course. Approximately 125 students and six instructors participated in the pilot, while 125 students and two instructors served as a control group.
Implementation of the Virtual Computer Lab (VCL) in Community Colleges - Fall 2008
The purpose of this document is to report the Fall 2008 findings from a continuing evaluation of the Virtual Computing Lab (VCL) at Wake Tech and Johnston County Community College (JCCC). We evaluated three implementation efforts: two that involved introductory computer skills (CIS) 110 courses, which are standardized across the state of North Carolina, and one that involved courses using AutoCAD. One of the CIS 110 implementations took place at Wake Tech and was a continuation of a effort begun in the Spring 2008 semester, and the other was a pilot study that took place at JCCC. The AutoCAD implementation took place at Wake Tech and was also a pilot. We conducted instructor training and focus groups at the beginning of the semester, and then administered baseline assessments to both the instructors and the students. Assessments were also given at the end of the semester, and changes in attitudes towards the VCL over time were evaluated. Finally, recommendations are given concerning the key elements to attend to for assuring a smooth implementation of the VCL at a community college.
NCLTI Planning Framework
Prepared by the Friday Institute for Educational Innovation, Dec. 1, 2008
In this document we present a framework for planning a strategic approach to technology-enabled learning in North Carolina public high schools. The planning for the North Carolina Learning Technology Initiative (NCLTI) involves pedagogy, technology, policy, professional development, community engagement, funding, and organization as necessary components of a sustainable model for supporting future-ready students in North Carolina. The NCLTI is designed to address:
- Equity, providing all students access to 21st century teaching, learning, and technology;
- Engagement, involving students in active learning and thereby improving student achievement and increasing graduation rates.
- Economic development, providing all students with workplace skills such as communication, problem solving, and collaboration, along with content expertise, to make each region of the state more attractive to businesses.
The Learning Technology Initiative builds upon the successful planning and implementation of the School Connectivity Initiative (SCI), the North Carolina Virtual Public School (NCVPS), Learn & Earn Online (LEO), IMPACT Model Schools, and schools and districts throughout the State that have begun 1:1 technology programs in which every student and teacher receives a computer.
NCLTI One-page Outline
This document is a one page overview of the NC Learning Technology Initiative.