Introduction

You have been hired by a new high school's technology department as a computer consultant.  Your mission is to present the principal of the school with options/recommendations for choosing a workable solution for a new Windows-based computer lab. This is an instructional computer lab so keep in mind that you will need to leave room for the instructor and a projector.

The high school anticipates 20 computers in this new lab, and 1 computer for the instructor. With today's economy and the promises from School Board members to lead this new high school toward the "Information Age" and keep taxes at a minimum, it is important to lease or purchase high quality equipment at a reasonable cost. 

Your presentation needs to include, all items MUST be included in your PowerPoint presentation:

• Comparative cost graphs made in Excel (create worksheet first then base the graph on the worksheet), you may also use Photoshop to create a graphical representation based on your information.
• A map of the Local Area Network created in an image editing program such as PhotoShop or you may use Inspiration to create this map.
• Responsibilities and recommendations in the form of a PowerPoint presentation.

You should put yourself in the shoes of the following individuals when making your desisions:

• Student   Wants access to all that is current. Believes that their high school should prepare them for the "Information Age." Technological access is a paramount concern.
• Administrator   Desires networking to the state-wide eduction system to provide a cutting edge learning environment for teachers, students, and the community. Budgets and costs are of paramount concerns.
• Parent   Desires that their child be prepared for our computer-based world. Wants top education for child without paying tremendously high tuition or taxes. Also wants safe Internet access. state-wide support, protecting one’s child and taxes are paramount concerns.
• Technology Coordinator   Assists in identifying the needs of the district. Recommends purchases. Assists in installing, implementing and maintaining network. Keeping up with the cutting edge of  technology is a paramount concern.

1. Determine what equipment will be needed to successfully connect the lab to the Internet.

2. Determine how "connectivity" will enhance learning.

3. Determine the total cost to purchase or lease the entire system.

4. Determine concerns, fears, and responsibilities with networking the lab.
 

Finally, after having participated in these roles, you will:

I.    Use Microsoft Excel and graphs to compare costs from at least two different vendors and
reasons to accept specific bids.

II.    Present your diagram of the mapping of the Local Area Network throughout the building using Photoshop or Inspiration.

III.    Present the responsibilities of students, administrators, parents, and the Technology Coordinator within the district along with your recommendations with a PowerPoint presentation.

What is a network?

The Network Book

Servers and other network products

Amazing Computer Trend

Networking products

C|Net.com Networking Buying Guide

C|Net.com

Windy City Networks

Library Networking Terms

Vendors

Gateway Computers

Dell Computers

Compaq Computers

Network Consultants

PNC

Telemedia, Networks, and Systems Group
 

Evaluation

You should take a look at the grading rubric to get a good idea of what I'm looking for before you begin your project.

Grading Rubric

Discuss your LAN model. After sharing LAN ideas, are there changes you would make to your
LAN model? How can it be improved? How can your school's networking be improved?

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