October 2003 — Features
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The Reality of Anytime, Anywhere Learning
Conclusion
A wireless system can complement the access provided by a hardwired network in an educational setting. For the teacher or technology manager, wireless laptops have proven to be reliable and easy to use. Access to wireless computing can enhance any technology-integrated learning experience, whether the learner is a student in the classroom or a staff member participating in professional development, because it provides the learner with a personalized resource that is both nonthreatening and extremely flexible.
The eVan Delivers Technology Integration Training
SAUSD's definitive wireless mobile resource, the eVan, is being used to provide training in technology integration to the district's elementary schools. The eVan was the brainchild of Gary Wheaton, SAUSD's director of educational technology and media services. The eVan concept fits directly into Wheaton's vision for education technology, as he believes that "the future of technology in education is anytime, anywhere learning via wireless devices."
The eVan became a reality in the spring when Wheaton renovated a surplus district van. The interior of the van was refurbished by the addition of counters and seating space, and the exterior received new paint. The eVan uses Apple's AirPort Extreme as its wireless distribution system, which connects to a base station that is placed in the school site. A dozen laptops, a network printer and a TV monitor are the technology resources housed in the eVan for teacher training.
Technology curriculum specialist Mark Bello drives the eVan to school sites and uses it as his classroom, working with teachers on technology integration projects. "One of the advantages of using the eVan for training is that there is only a minimal loss of time for teachers between the eVan and their classroom, which helps teachers to use the technology integration skills that they have acquired in training as soon as they step back into their classroom," says Bello. Teachers are very enthusiastic about their training experience aboard the eVan; needless to say, eVan training provides an educational experience that is both unique and motivational.
Online Wireless Computing Resources
- The Role of Wireless Computing Technology in the Design of Schools
www.edfacilities.org/pubs/wirelessII.pdf - SAUSD Educational Technology and Media Services
www.sausd.k12.ca.us/imc - The Unwired Classroom: Wireless Computers Come of Age
www.fno.org/jan01/wireless.html - Who Is the Millennial Generation?
www.cic.org/conferences_events/presidents/previouspres/pi2003millennial-generation.pdf - Wireless Networking in Schools
http://members.ozemail.com.au/%7Ecumulus/wireless.htm
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