My desire to create a LP ideal for the school (and, let's be honest here my sanity as well), is moving along. Google Apps has been upgraded to the education version, and - after a bit of a delay - the email service is now working without adverts showing up.
I've had a bit of a play with Google Sites (parts of the apps package) and decided that maybe it isn't going to work for class teachers to use as a base to inform children of topics / research / reference sites and information. Infact, I think getting each teacher to make (and maintain - very important that) their own PAGE within the school website will work better. Using typepad for the school website means they can log into and create / alter a page quickly and easily. It also means they can link to any posts they create too, and allow pupils to comment directly (moderated) on what they have written. Using pages has already proved an easy way for my HT to keep in touch with parents, through the "Parents Area" page on the webiste, so it is a do-able solution.
In terms of pupils logging in to apps, I've opted for the same system that we have for the schools active directory (AD) network. In addition, each pupil has a unique password. This means that logging onto the school network / the wiki / google apps (and other services like Kerpoof) are all using the same login name, and where needed the same password. Simplicity.
So what does this mean for the Porchester Learning Platform?
- Well, the website is ideal for teachers to post articles (they already do this) and allow pupils / parents and a wider audience to comment on. The website can also provide each class with a central page, or "hub", related to the work they are / will be covering in a particular term.
- The school wiki provides pupils with a safe area in which they can create their own pages for a topic (and allow other pupils to edit and improve their work). Although we allow anyone to view the wiki, only authorised users can edit and add work. The wiki also provides a messageboard system that stores ALL messages - even those that are deleted - allowing content to be moderated.
- Through Google Apps we can provide access to online word processing / presentation / spreadsheet files that can be accessed both in school and out. Pupils could also share their work with other pupils and work on collaborative tasks in their own time.
The downside at the moment is the reporting to parents aspect. I had hoped that google apps would be the solution to this - reading Tom Barretts idea gave me hope, but recent tweets on twitter regarding the storage of pupil data on google servers in a foreign country have put a hold on this. I'm now looking for a UK based reporting system, or similar apps package that would fit the bill and be acceptable with regards to pupil data.
The adventure continues...
