1.
Computers should be used to enhance, not replace, the teacher and supplement, not supplant, traditional teaching methods. Corollary: Computers should be used for the things they're good at, and people should be used for the things they're good at.
2.
No more than 50 percent of the total information-technology budget should be spent on hardware: 30 percent should be spent on software, and at least 20 percent should be spent on support. Don't skimp; buy as much horsepower as you can afford, because it won't become obsolete as quickly.
3.
Find local partners to help with purchasing, and especially with support. Some computer and software companies have adopt-a-school programs (even if the
companies aren't local, employees are willing to support their alma maters). In addition, many corporations extend support to local educational institutions (in part out of enlightened self-interest, and in part because they can use the facilities after hours for their own training).
4.
All computers should be networked with outside access. Don't let a renovation project at your school or company occur without taking the opportunity to rewire.
5.
The best pilot classes for any new technology are those that teach teachers to use the technology upon which a class is based. Thus, it's wonderful to use a distributed Notes network to teach students about setting up and managing Notes installations or other client/server infobase products. Perhaps less appropriate: testing your new Notes-based teaching system on a course about thirteenth-century Chinese vase decoration.
Five Golden Rules
