Technology Infrastructure Management (14.954)
Course Syllabus
Dr. Laurie Keating
 Phone: (508)369-1151
 Email: lekeating@comcast.net
 Office Hours: Virtual. I will check email frequently on a daily basis and try to answer within 24
hours. I do travel on business so am not able to check as often as I like. In addition, i am available
most evenings from 7 – 9 p.m.
Course Description:
This course is designed to provide teachers, instructional technology specialists, and technology directors
with strategies for maintaining and troubleshooting their computers by using a series of hands-on
activities. Topics include computer hardware and software, system administration tools, networking, and
network security, in support of cloud computing. A series of discussions are held about the issues facing
educational technology leaders as they strive to provide a robust infrastructure and sufficient devices to
support teaching and learning. Through extensive discussion and project-based assignments,
differentiated experiences are provided to meet the diverse needs of the students in this class. Students
continue the development of an electronic portfolio to document their field-based experiences.
Course Information:
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Course Dates: September 3, 2014 – December 17, 2014
Format: This course will be 100% online in a primarily asynchronous format with 2-3 Blackboard
Collaborate chats held on mutually convenient evenings.
Meeting Days: For the purpose of tracking, the “beginning of the week” will be Fridays, with
assignments generally due on Mondays so that the student has a minimum of two weekends to
work on each assignment (often longer). Over the years, this has proven to be amenable to the
most people because lectures and assignments are available over the weekend for those who
only have weekends available for classwork.
Discussion: Active participation is required. Course content is developed through the discussion
board. Participation is expected throughout the discussion period, not just on a single visit.
Notes:
1.
2.
The intent of this course is to prepare the teacher, technology director, or instructional
technology specialist to have a high level understanding of the technology infrastructure and
related issues that face school districts. This is not a course in hardware technician skills or
network design.
In this class, every attempt is made to accommodate the fact that you [we] are all working
people. For written assignments, you will usually have at least 10 days to complete it (i.e., two
weekends). That said, however, this is NOT a correspondence course. Participation is required
and is a major part of your grade. All students must make a commitment to participate in online
chats and discussions.
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Course Objectives
This course addresses the NETS Standards for Technology Leaders and Facilitators in the areas of:
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TL – Technology Operations and Concepts
Educational technology leaders demonstrate an advanced understanding of technology operations
and concepts.
TL-V – Productivity and Professional Practice
Educational technology leaders design, develop, evaluate and model products created using
technology resources to improve and enhance their productivity and professional practice.
TL-VI – Social, Ethical, Legal, and Human Issues
Educational technology leaders understand the social, ethical, legal, and human issues surrounding
the use of technology in PK-12 schools and develop programs facilitating application of that
understanding in practice throughout their district/region/state.
TL-VII – Procedures, Policies, Planning, and Budgeting for Technology Environments
Educational technology leaders coordinate development and direct implementation of technology
infrastructure procedures, policies, plans, and budgets for PK-12 schools.
TL-VIII – Leadership and Vision
Educational technology leaders will facilitate development of a shared vision for comprehensive
integration of technology and foster an environment and culture conducive to the realization of the
vision.
In addition, by the end of the course, participants will be able to:
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Knowledgeably describe the specifications and configuration of a computer system and the
domain on which it is located.
Using correct terminology, describe system problems and identify logical troubleshooting
procedures and possible solutions.
Describe how resources are shared over a network and the access issues that arise related to
them.
Use online help to obtain information about procedures and problem-solving.
Effectively describe more difficult problems, providing accurate, helpful information.
Discuss issues related to cloud computing.
Plan and manage the procurement of technology devices or services.
Content: (Note: See Course Calendar for dates.)
MODULE 1: Knowing Your Hardware
In this module we identify your computer's specifications, configuration, and peripheral devices as well as
a review of handheld devices that can be used educationally. In addition, we examine operating systems,
drivers, and the files that enable the parts of the computer to work together as a system. We also discuss
system utilities and startup files.
MODULE 2: Networking
In this module we look at the world beyond the local PC, but within your building -- the network. We look
at shared resources, including applications, drives, printers, and scanners as well as the access issues that
arise in using these resources.
MODULE 3: Internetworking and Internet Security
The Internet is a vast, powerful, global network that offers a wealth of opportunity or a source of
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frustration. We will examine the Internet in relationship to your system, including getting connected,
staying connected, searching, plug-ins, downloading, and error messages. In this module we also discuss
special topics related to internet security and network management.
MODULE 4: Cloud Computing
As web-based applications and productivity tools replace locally installed and server-based systems, new
challenges face technology leaders. In this module, we explore some of these challenges and solutions for
making these accessible anytime anywhere.
MODULE 5: Troubleshooting and Maintenance
In this module we look at some basic problems that can arise with your computer and where to start
looking for a solution when one of them malfunctions. Some of the issues considered are freezes, booting
problems, driver conflicts, viruses, and unavailable devices. As an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of
cure, we'll also spend a little time on some basic maintenance procedures that can save you a lot of time
in the long run.
MODULE 6: Emerging and Strategic Issues
In this module we look at some of the current topics facing school administrators related to educational
technology such as Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), Classroom Management Tools, and Multi-Device
Management (MDM). This module will be discussion formatted and will give students an opportunity to
bring up issues that they see day to day.
Teaching Method
This course makes use of the following online tools:
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The course is designed in Blackboard.com, which is self-contained and provides the tracking tools
needed to most effectively offer an online course.
Extensive use is made of discussion groups for assignments; forums are available to project
groups to use for project collaboration.
Electronic mail is used to enable teacher-student and student-student communication.
Blackboard Collaborate will be used for group chats and presentations.
Course Requirements and Evaluation
The goal of this course is to introduce the concepts and practices of managing your technology and
infrastructure. The course requirements include both hands-on assignments and exploration. Grades are
based on the following; more detail will be provided at appropriate times during the term. For evaluation
criteria, see the Grading Rubric.
Participation in forums and group session (25%)
Because we learn through our colleagues and their experience, participation is a major part as part of
this course. Through a series of facilitated discussions, the class will explore topics related to
managing the technology infrastructure of a school district. Content will be introduced during these
discussions via articles and external resources.
Network Walk-through (20%)
To understand the topology and issues of a school network, students participate in a network
walkthrough and submit a paper describing their observations. Please schedule this tour to occur
after the beginning of Module 2.
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Product Comparison (25%)
In addition to following state and local guidelines related to comparative pricing, it is important to
select a product that meets the needs of the users. In this project, which explores the procurement
process, students will define the desired features and functionality for a specific product or service
and compare at least three options for that product.
Final Project (30%)
The final project is a presentation on a topic related to this course. The presentation should be
appropriate for a staff development session, workshop, conference, or school board meeting. Topics
must be approved by the instructor.
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Course Outline/Calendar
Please note that the dates in this calendar are guidelines and are provided as an outline of the pace of the
course and approximate work flow, to assist you in your own planning.
Notes:
1.
2.
Discussion postings must occur within the weeks of the discussion. You are encouraged to
continue an interesting discussion beyond the week, but grading will take place at the end of the
discussion period. Postings that take place after the discussion period ends will not be credited
towards the discussion grade.
Participation in online chats is expected. Please coordinate with the instructor if you are not
available.
Date
Activity
Wednesday 9/3/2014
Welcome – Introductions
Introduce yourself in the Water Cooler.
Update your contact information in Blackboard Student Profile
Start thinking about topics for product comparison and final project.
Friday 9/5/2014
Module 1 Hardware/Software (2 week)
Discussion 1 – through Friday 9/19
Monday 9/15/2014
7:00 p.m. Online Chat (Welcome. Course Expectations and Assignment
Overview) (Chats are highly recommended but not mandatory. You will be
responsible for material that is discussed.)
Friday 9/19/2014
Module 2 Networking (2 weeks)
Discussion 2 through Friday 10/3/2014
Network Walk-through (Paper) discussed -- Due Monday October 13
Friday 10/3/2014
Module 3 – Internetworking and Internet Security (2 weeks)
Discussion 3 -- through Friday 10/17/2014
Product Comparison Project Assigned. Please have topic approved by
10/20. Project Due Friday, November 10.
Tuesday 10/7/2014
7:00 p.m. Online Chat (Network Security) (Chats are highly recommended
but not mandatory. You will be responsible for material that is discussed.)
Monday, 10/13/2014
Network Walkthrough Paper Due -- Please review your classmates’ projects
and post comments by October 24.
Friday 10/17/2014
Module 4 Cloud Computing (3 weeks)
Discussion 4 -- through Friday 11/7/2014
Reminder: Product Comparison Project – due Monday November 10
Final Project Assigned. Proposal due 11/3. Project Due Monday, Dec 8
Friday 10/31/2014
No new lecture, readings, or discussion topic this week
Project work!
Tuesday 11/4/2014
7:00 p.m. Online Chat (Cloud Computing) (Chats are highly recommended
but not mandatory. You will be responsible for material that is discussed.)
Friday 11/7/2014
Module 5 Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Monday 11/10/2014
Product Comparison Project Due
Friday 11/21/2014
Module 6 Strategic and Emerging Issues (2 weeks)
Discussion 6 -- through Friday 12/13/2014
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Date
Activity
Final Projects forum open.
Monday 12/8/2014
Final Projects Due in Final Project Forum. Please use the remaining time to
review and comment on your classmates’ submissions.
Tuesday 12/17/2014
Semester ends. Grades submitted All work must be submitted on or before
this date to avoid an Incomplete grade.
Credit Hour Requirement:
Based on the federal credit hour definition a 4 credit semester course requires 60 contact hours of
instruction time and 120 contact hours of “out of class” work. A contact hour is 50 minutes. Translated
to a 60 minute hour this means 50 hours of instructional time and 100 hours of out-of-class work (total
150 hours).
Required Texts or Materials
No textbook is required for this course. Course lectures will be provided in the Course Documents section.
In addition, various online resources will be identified and recommended. (External links provided.)
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Grading Rubric
Notes:
1.
Framingham State College sets high expectations in the Curriculum and Instructional Technology
Program. To this end, I attempt to adhere to this grading rubric. Please read this rubric and the
assignment guidelines carefully and complete your assignments accordingly. When a summary of
two or three paragraphs is requested, one or two sentences will not suffice.
2.
Active participation is not only encouraged, it is required. Course content is developed through
the discussion board. Discussions will be graded at the end of the discussion period. Continued
discussion may add a point, but will not be considered adequate.
3.
Academic dishonesty will not be tolerated. Please refer the Student Handbook for details.
Plagiarism will result in an automatic "F."
Tasks
(Weight)
Overall
Participation
25%
Grade "A"
Grade "B"
Grade "C"
All spelling, math, and
grammar are checked and
correct.
Most spelling, math
and/or grammar are
correct; may have a
few typos.
Spelling, math, and/or
grammar contain several
errors. Obviously not
checked.
Checks in frequently,
posting four or more
relevant comments per
week.
Checks in two or three
times a week and reads
postings.
Checks in once late in
week when most work is
there.
Reads all postings
commenting where
appropriate. Tends to
follow one or two threads a
week in particular.
Reads through most
postings, comments
where appropriate.
Skims through postings
related to own
submissions; skips most
others.
Comments tend to provide
answers, raise issues, and
offer insight into discussion
forums.
Comments are brief
and general, but not
thought-provoking, or
of the "me too" variety.
Infrequent comment
posting, if any. Does not
make an effort to move
forward any discussions
or answer questions.
Please note: Discussions will be graded at the end of the discussion period. Discussion may continue to
provide further definition or debate, but will not be used as the basis of grading.
Product
Comparison
(25%)
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Submitted on time.
Follows project guidelines.
Submitted on time.
Follows project guidelines
Submitted late. Does not
follow guidelines.
Fully addresses major
points of assignment.
Analysis is complete and
shows insight to user
needs.
Addresses most points of
assignment with a few
missing. Discussion is
superficial.
Incomplete or inventory
only. Analysis omitted.
Meets or exceeds length
requirement – 3 products
minimum; full feature set.
Brief treatment – fewer
than 3 products; limited
features.
Minimalist treatment.
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Tasks
(Weight)
Network
Walkthrough
(20%)
Final Project
30%
Grade "B"
Grade "C"
Submitted on time.
Follows project guidelines.
Submitted on time.
Follows project guidelines
Submitted late. Does not
follow guidelines.
Fully addresses major
points of assignment.
Discussion shows insight
into network issues.
Addresses most points of
assignment with a few
missing. Discussion issues
superficial.
Incomplete or inventory
only. Discussion not
included.
Meets or exceeds length
requirement.
Meets length
requirement.
Brief treatment – fewer
than 3 pages.
Submitted on time.
Follows project guidelines.
Submitted on time.
Follows project guidelines
Submitted late. Does not
follow guidelines.
Treatment of subject is
accurate and complete.
Treatment has some
inaccuracies or
incomplete areas.
Treatment of subject is
inaccurate or
incomplete.
Handouts are original, high
quality, and complement
the presentation. Note:
copies of the presentation
are not considered a
handout for this class.
Handouts are not original
or not high quality.
(Someone else's webpage
is not an original
handout.)
Handouts are missing or
inadequate.
The presentation follows
format and topic follows
guidelines.
Parts of presentation are
missing or topic is
unapproved.
All parts of project are
not included and topic is
unapproved.
Grade "A"
Academic Honesty Policy—From the Framingham State University
Graduate Catalog:
“Integrity is essential to academic life. Consequently, students who enroll at Framingham State
University agree to maintain high standards of academic honesty and scholarly practice. They
shall be responsible for familiarizing themselves with the published policies and procedures
regarding academic honesty.” (page 6)
Please also refer to the Framingham State University Graduate Catalog at
http://www.framingham.edu/graduate-and-continuing-education/documents/grad-catalog-0910.pdf.
Accommodation Statement for Special Needs Students:
“Framingham State University offers equal opportunities to all qualified students, including those
with disabilities and impairments. The University is committed to making reasonable
accommodations as are necessary to ensure that its programs and activities do not discriminate,
or have the effect of discriminating, on the basis of disability. Academic Support serves students
with learning and psychiatric disabilities as well as students with visual, mobility and hearing
impairments. For further information about this, please visit the website at
http://www.framingham.edu/center-for-academic-support-and-advising/disabilityservices/index.html or contact Ms. LaDonna Bridges, Director of Academic Support/Disability
Services, in the Center for Academic Support and Advising (CASA) at 508-626-4906 or
lbridges@framingham.edu.”
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