Plugged in and Turned on: Planning, Coordinating, and Managing Computer-Supported Instruction Paperback - 1996

"Anyone with responsibility for deciding how to use technology in schools would do well to read this book. It′s an ideal introduction, in clear, non-technical language, and it is packed with useful suggestions." Bill Gates, CEO, Microsoft Corporation "A one-stop resource of technical information on computer and communications technology--including solutions. It′s essential reading for every principal." M. Kathryn Floyd, Principal, Pickens County Middle School, Jasper, Georgia "This book should be required reading for all school administrators and policymakers. It′s very readable and provides specific guidance on how to proceed with technology planning and implementation." Kent L. Gustafson, Professor and Chair, Instructional Technology The University of Georgia, Athens "McCain has provided a blueprint that brings confidence and clarity to the path we need to follow. A how-to book notable for its lack of cant and rhetoric." Peter W. Cobb, Headmaster, Pace Academy, Atlanta, Georgia Author Charles McCain estimates that in 10 years, a computer will sit on nearly every student desk. The better prepared your school and your staff are, the more you can accomplish with the new technology. Seize this opportunity to be an active manager in your school′s transition to computer-assisted learning. McCain shows you how to use computers to steer your school′s shift toward student-centered classrooms, where teachers guide students′ exploration of subjects. You′ll learn * How to customize the book′s classroom configuration models for any situation * How to secure your hardware and your data * How to develop a computer-use policy for your school * How instruction and ongoing guidance can keep teachers learning * What kinds of technical support you′ll need after your computers are installed McCain tells you exactly how to lead your school or district into the computer learning age. His practitioner-oriented guide gives you nontechnical, straight-forward advice on how to stay on top of changes and innovation and how to design, implement, and run a computer lab and computer-assisted classroom. This is a book for anyone--a sort of "nuts and bolts for dummies". Use the tools in this guide to create a workable infrastructure to accompany and support the current technology boom, and let computers help you to engage the minds of all your students--whatever their learning styles.