[Year 12 IPM] Another off-topic query

[Roland Gesthuizen]

The HumanEdge A+ has both an Internet web and PC based software clients 
to enter absence data or generate reports. Staff can use their wireless 
notebooks but the instant start feature of a PDA was attractive. The 
PDA's that we use are wireless so the data is dynamically changed, we 
have 50 of these units so duty students can get back to class. At any 
stage we should know exactly where the students are. For us it was 
important that it mesh into our current timetable, blocking, absence 
system. The thing I learned about the implementation of this system was 
the value of a stepwise implementation and consulting all the 
stakeholders. Better tracking is nice but it cannot replace the more 
important system that follows up and responds to truancy and attendance 
issues.

I think it is very healthy that there are a couple of good, robust 
systems around to manage timetables. This healthy competition should 
work to serve our needs and keep prices down. It is also good for 
Victoria that these cottage industries now export their software 
solutions interstate. In all honesty, it isnt so much a task to spot 
what is best or most popular as what would better suit the needs of your 
school today. Good luck with your research Diane :-)

Regards Roland

Meadows, Roslyn M wrote:

>Hi Diane,
>We used Palm Pilots from 2000 - 2004.  The system was easy to use except we had to hot sync at recess (so the daily absences were known), and then again after school. We also had interim reports set up for end of term 1 and term 3 (very basic - Attitude, Conduct, Classwork, Homework, Progress - choose from Excellent, Very Good, etc). Staff members have access to other class lists for extras etc.
> 
>The initial set up costs were high, batteries would run out and need replacing, Palm Pilots would be lost, CRT's did not have access to Palm Pilot and had to borrow one from another staff member, after marking the roll on paper. I still kept a paper based roll in my chronicle.
> 
>Now we have moved to a computer based roll system called Roll Call. This is a fantastic system from my point of view as I am near a computer all day, other staff members must use their laptops (wireless), or get to a computer to do the roll (which must be done by the end of recess for Period 1 and 2, then at the end of the day for Periods 4 - 6.. Roll Call also offers more functionality than the Plam Pilots as I can print a report of absences by class, by student etc, and it also allows us to do progress reports. I no longer keep a paper based roll, being able to find all information on Roll Call. Staff members have access to other class lists if they have an extra.
> 
>Overall I would give the thumbs up to the computer network Roll Call system. I am quite happy to not have to worry about where my Palm Pilot is all the time.
> 
>Hope this helps. Have a wonderful break everyone
> 
>Ros Meadows
>Bentleigh SC
>9579 1044
>meadows.roslyn.m at edumail.vic.gov.au
> 
>"Furious activity is no substitute for understanding." H. H. Williams 
>
>________________________________
>
>From: ipm-bounces at edulists.com.au on behalf of Diane Peat
>Sent: Wed 9/14/2005 11:18 AM
>To: IPM List at Forest Hills High
>Subject: [Year 12 IPM] Another off-topic query
>
>
>Hello and thank you again for all the information people sent on Click View.
> 
>I have another off-topic query - our school is considering the use of PDAs for roll marking. Does anyone use them - preferably along with Synergetic - and if so, are you happy with them? Rather than clog up the list, please reply to dpeat at firbank.vic.edu.au if you have information, suggestions, ideas, etc.
> 
>Thanks again everyone.
> 
>Diane Peat
>Firbank Grammar School
>51 Outer Crescent
>BRIGHTON   VIC   3186
>Tel        9591 5188
>Email    dpeat at firbank.vic.edu.au
> 
> 
> 
> 
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-- 
Roland Gesthuizen - eLearning Coordinator - Westall Secondary College
http://www.westallsc.vic.edu.au