1.+Hardware

toc =Hardware=

Introduction
In today’s classroom, if a school does not use the latest technology, they are behind the curve. Technology has proven to enhance a child’s education while preparing them for what they will experience after their secondary education. Providing students with up-to-date technology, access to the world wide web, and the ability to create word processing documents should be a priority of every school district.

Basics
To understand hardware and its importance, one must understand certain terminology. Below is a list of these important terms:
 * Computer Platform ** – the underlying computer system on which application programs can run.
 * Computer Model ** – A style or design of a computer.
 * Computer Operating System (OS) ** – The program that, after being initially loaded into the computer by a boot  program, manages all the other programs in a computer
 * Add-On Device ** – A component you can add to a computer  or other device  to increase its capabilities.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: 12pt;">Computer Configuration **<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: 12pt;"> – The way in which a computer system is set up, more specifically, the way that the components of a computer network are connected (topology).
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: 12pt;">Internet Connection **<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; font-size: 12pt;"> – The network which allows computer users to connect with computers all over the world.

Comparison


Computers are basically built from two platforms, Windows & Mac. This is the case in all of the student reports. While there are more platforms out there, others are generally used for more specialized applications. In fact, the [|majority] of OS’s used in the United States are Windows (87%) or Mac (8%) based.

The Windows operating systems most commonly found are Windows 7, Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 2003. All of the student reports listed Windows XP while three listed Windows 7. This is logical since Windows 7 is the recommended upgrade from Windows XP. Christopher and Austin both listed Mac’s newest operating system, OS10. The fact that Central Michigan University and Traverse City Area Public Schools use these operating systems gives a clear indication that they are providing their students with the latest technology. Providing a student with experience using both platforms will prepare them for future endeavors.

Add-on devices, also known as peripherals, allow teachers and students to fully optimize their computing sessions. These devices enable pages to be printed, documents to be scanned, and lessons plans to be displayed. The reports listed printers, projectors (including interactive), cameras, and iPods. While many more devices exist, these are by far the most common.

Most schools also utilize a local area network (LAN). LAN’s allow computers to be connected. This is important for data storage purposes. Lesson plans and class resources can be stored on servers to maximize interoperability. These files can then be accessed via a copper connection from the computer to the network or through wireless access point (WAP). Wi-Fi connections enable maximum portability, especially when using handheld devices with network capabilities.

Of all the uses of a computer, logging on to the internet has become one of the most popular. Students, teachers, and parents are connected like never before. Most schools are connected via a broadband internet service. Most schools utilize the LAN to access that broadband connection to the internet through a gateway. One district reported network speeds of 100Mb – 1 GB.

Conclusion
In today’s classroom, if a school does not use the latest technology, they are behind the curve. Technology has proven to enhance a child’s education while preparing them for what they will experience after their secondary education. Providing students with up-to-date technology, access to the worldwide web, and the ability to create word processing documents should be the goal of every school district. Hard is and will continue to be a part of education and the work place.

Section 2: Software