The use of online learning tools has become an important national priority, reflected in the government's funding plans for ICT in schools. To support this, E2BN and the DfES have organised a series of roadshows focusing on 'Embedding Learning Platforms in the Curriculum'. There will be input from DfES and Becta as well as from local practitioners. Each session lasts for a morning or afternoon with a focus on the potential of learning platforms for transforming teaching and learning. Lunch is provided.
The event is aimed at head teachers, deputy head
teachers, AST's at primary and secondary level; service managers, local
authority improvement managers and regional school improvement managers. The
roadshows are intended to support the DfES targets identified in the 2006
Standards Fund Guidance for ICT relating to Learning Platforms, personalised
learning space and e-portfolios. The targets are:
a) Provide a personalised learning space for each pupil with the
potential to support e-portfolios in every school by 2007-2008.
b) A
learning platform with (at least) basic functionality in schools by spring 2008.
The most convenient venue is probably 7th March at Priory Centre, St Neots, PE19 2DN.
Further details and a booking form are on the E2BN website http://web.e2bn.net/vle/roadshow06.php
Purpose:
For InformationA number of schools have been reporting problems with Wireless equipment installed by 3rd party suppliers, upon ICT Service investigation we have found either the wrong equipment installed, not configured to CCN specifications, installed in the wrong locations and CCN "as build documentation" not updated.
The Education ICT Service strongly advises schools to refer any ICT related project or communication from 3rd party suppliers through the ICT Service to ensure best value is being achieved. With regards to wireless installations, CCN has strong security guidelines which must be adhered to - especially relating to a potential security threats. Please refer to www.icttid.ccceducation.net > Schools CCN Information and Guidance (PDF 225Kbs)
The ICT Service have in-depth knowledge of the latest wireless standards and have strong relationships with preferred wireless equipment suppliers who we can hold accountable. If you are not yet aware, there is a new standard currently under review by IEEE - 802.11n will push speeds up to over 100Mb for wireless. However, as with any new standard, there are currently a number of different hardware vendors scrabbling to get their standards ratified.
The warning to schools should be to hold off on 100 MB wireless kit until
A new guidance document has been added to the portal. Understanding the Risk - Management of ICT Support Services and Equipment in Cambridgeshire Schools that will help schools to avoid mistakes in the procurement and management of resources and support for ICT which can be costly, inconvenient and even dangerous.
Schools are free to make purchasing decisions. However, due to the scale and complexity of the investment in ICT by schools and the County Council, it is important that school leaders are aware of the independent advice available to them before far-reaching decisions are taken. It is also important to understand that there are rules that have to be followed covering both financial activity and use of the County Council's broadband network, CCN.
This short briefing document is intended to remind heads and governors of some of the main issues involved and to provide electronic links to sources of advice on the Portal. It has been fully endorsed by the Heads ICT Steering Group
Please click on this link for information on all ICT Training Courses
http://c9s.e2bn.net/e2bn/leas/c99/schools/c9s/web/public/ict%20service%20courses/home/training/