A Tutorial to Computer Networks in Educational Settings

By Julie Channell

The Basics of Technology

1. Network2. Information Technology Personnel role3. Teacher role

Network

Purpose• Connects multiple computers together to send and receive

information when accessing the network• File server is the head of the network

large and fast computer that stores the RAM, extra memory, and stores software, applications, and files

• All the other computers are called workstations• Involves hardware and software that connects computers

and tools• Allows printers, scanners , email, and security features to

be shared

Network Operating Systems

There are two types of network operating systems:

• Type 1- Peer to Peer

• Type 2- Client Server

Peer to PeerFunction

• Equally small to medium local area networks (LAN)• Allows users to share resources and files• All computers are equal

Advantages• Start up cost is less• Little reconfiguration needed

Drawbacks• Not adequate security for network server• No central place for stored files

Client Server

Function• Centralize functions and applications • The computers are considered clients and are connected to a server• File servers makes resources accessible and secure• Integrates all computers and files can be shared at the same time

Advantages• All files are centralized and accessible• Elements can be replaced as needed• Components work togetherDrawbacks• Expensive and need staff to service and support it• When server goes down operations do not work

Components of a Network

Components• Protocol- Everyone uses the same language• Network Cards – Cards that are in the back of

computers so information can be sent and received• Cable- To connect the computers • Hub- To control the volume of users

Jelen, T. (2003)

Network Continued

1. Local Area Network (LAN) – In a limited geographical area (building, library etc)

2. Wide Area Network (WAN)- Large geographical location (i.e. state)

Diagram of a Network

Computer network diagram. (2010, August 27)

Benefits from Having a Network in the Educational System

• Appropriate school personnel can access student information simultaneously

• Increase productivity time• Peer and educator collaboration and

mentoring within the school and on the internet

• Eases communication of staff, scheduling meeting, access curricular supports

Hardware• Internal Hardware (inside the computer)

Hard drive- Stores your data Motherboard- Main circuit board of the computer Random Access Memory(RAM)- When a program is opened it is

run from RAM, not the hard drive, since it is more efficient

• External Hardware- (Outside of the computer) Network- Network interface cards and ethernet cards Accessibility- Monitor, scanner, mice, keyboards, printers,

scanners Switch- Central point to connect workstations, cables, and servers Router- Directs information within the network Repeater-Boosts the strength of the connection of the cable

Hardware Activity

• The following activity is performed with teachers to familiarize themselves with the names/ part of the computer so they are able to more clearly identify their concerns when they call IT

• http://www.eduplace.com/rdg/gen_act/g_start/computer.html

Hardware Activity

Software

• Programs that run the computer (ie. Mouse skills, Type to Learn, SOLO, Kurzweil)

• Have to check to see if they meet the system requirementsWhen hardware of software is purchased it is

necessary to see if your computer will support it (memory, version, hard drive space)

Internet vs Intranet

• Internet- Interconnect global networks that allows millions of people to share informationNo governing body regarding access or usage

• Intranet-Secure component of companies network to share informationWithin an organization

Information Technology (IT) Personnel • Relates to computer technology and supporting the

use of it

• Assist in maintaining and updating hardware and software

• Support educators to learn tools so that they can be integrated into the educational environment

• Activate personalization of accessibility features in students accounts for ease of access and use

Educators Role

• Use tools already on the computer and software installed

• Monitor students and individualize software and settings to enhance student outcomes

• Use grading tools, professionally network• Access lesson plans• Use technology in curricular areas

Cheat Sheet Technology Problems

• Is the tool plugged in• Is the battery charged• Restart the computer• Check the wireless connection• See if the disc/ software is loaded• Hard restart of the computer• Are too many programs open• Last error message be displayed- report that to IT• Most current updates before problems began- report to

IT

Examples of When to Contact IT

• Need software installed• Need printer installed• Hardware not working• Constantly freezing• Updates needed on Antivirus or spyware• Network drives not working correctly

References

• Computer network diagram. (2010, August 27). Retrieved from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_network_diagram.

• Getting to know your computer. (2010, Septmber). Retrieved from http://www.eduplace.com/rdg/gen_act/g_start/computer.html .

• Jelen, T. (2003, April 22). Networks 101: what is a network? we'll lay out the basics, for the unclear. Retrieved from http://www.tech-soup.com/learning center/networks/page4774.cfm.

• Winkelman, R. (2009). An Educators guide to networks. Retrieved from http://fcit.usf.edu/network/ .