Support for Technology Use

Financial Issues

The startup costs for a computer area can be high. In addition to the original purchase of the computers and other equipment, continuing costs also need to be taken into account. Ongoing support and maintenance must be budgeted and planned for.

• Internet access requires a telephone line, a modem, and Internet service provider.
• Security, additional insurance, and locks for doors may need to be included in the budget; the value of the machines increases the possibility of theft and vandalism.
• Upgrading older buildings for wiring and structural improvements can be costly. See Technical Support.
• Initial and ongoing staff training—the Office of Technology Assessment suggests that at least a third of the resources in technology budgets be devoted to training and support. See Staff Development
• For more information on expenses installing and maintaining computers go to Total Cost of Ownership on the Consortium for School Networking Web site.

What can you do if you want to have a computer area but lack the resources?

• Some programs begin by actively seeking donations from local businesses.
• In some communities businesses have created partnerships with schools.
• Some schools and care centers seek donations of used machines from businesses. This eliminates the cost of purchase, but there may be large additional costs associated with donated machines.
• CompuMentor provides low-cost, volunteer-based computer assistance to schools and nonprofit organizations. Their Web site contains information on mentoring projects, a software redistribution program and staff-based consulting services. They also have a Resource Center for helpful information and advice.

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Staff Development

Staff need training before they can be expected to use computers meaningfully with students.

• Staff need ready access to equipment and time to practice.
• Good training is ongoing.
• Staff need support in their efforts to integrate technology into the program.
• Training and hands-on experience lets staff understand how these tools can be of use to them.
• For technology to play an active role in a program, staff should be actively involved in technology-related decisions.
• Using technology effectively may require a shift in methods and philosophy—allow time for change to occur.

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Technical Support & Maintenance

Technical support needs to be on-site and user-oriented. Waiting for repairs makes technology more of a problem than a benefit and discourages use.

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