Mohammed Al-Abdulatef
P100101358
Dhaifallah Alsuhaymi
P100102147
Ohio University
To sum up, technology plays an effective role in improving the learning and teaching
processes in higher education. To integrate technology into education successfully, colleges and
universities should provide technology infrastructure (Georgina & Olson, 2008). Faculties should
be educated and equipped with the skills to use technology effectively (Georgina & Olson,
2008). Students should be able to access the new technology (Georgina & Olson, 2008). In
addition, instructional technology that meets adults requirements based on adult learning
theories should be used (Lindbeck & Fodrey, 2011). Finally, faculties should be able to help their
students use the new technology (Georgina & Olson, 2008).
up the network connection setting for these devices. We also installed a video editing program,
downloaded all the necessary updates on these devices, and connected them to printers. We
learned how to use Time Machine, which is the built-in backup feature of OS X that works with
your Mac and an external drive (sold separately) or AirPort Time Capsule (Apple, 2013), to
install a new operating system image in these devices. These tasks played a significant role in
preparing us for the next tasks.
After we built the workshop area, Mr. Weekley sat with us and explained how to update
the PCs in lab A. He taught us how to use the Deep Freeze system, which is a program that
restores a computer to its original settings each time the computer restarts. To update the PCs
successfully, we had to disable the Deep Freeze system and then restart the computer. The
updating included many programs such as Windows, Fairfax, Adobe, and Java. After we finished
the updating process, we checked the performance of all the PCs to make sure they worked
properly. Through this updating process, we acquired many skills and experiences that helped us
overcome the problems that we faced during our work at the CTC Lab.
When we finished updating the PCs, we realized that the cables, computers, and
connection cables were placed randomly in the CTC Lab. Thus, we suggested to Mr. Weekley
that they should be reorganized, and he gave us permission to do so. We started organizing these
cables, computers, and connection cables, and we put them in a locker according to their type
and specifications for easy access.
Since the CTC Lab had many iMacs that were not updated, Mr. Weekley assigned us to
install and update the necessary programs on these devices. While updating them, we noticed
that the operating systems of these devices had not been updated for two years. Thus, we updated
the operating systems of the iMacs to meet the requirements of modern software. Although we
have enough experience to deal with the Windows boot mode, we faced some problems with the
Mac boot mode. We looked on the Internet for solutions to these problems, but some of the
issues were too complex for us to solve. Consequently, we contact with the experts, and they
helped us solve these problems.
After we finished updating the iMacs, Mr.Weekley asked us to check, update, delete any
unnecessary files, and install important programs on the laptops. These laptops had been
neglected for a while, so the CTC staff decided to allow the students and teachers to use them.
In general, our work in the CTC Lab was a rich experience; it allowed us to gain many
skills and build relationships with new people.
Recommendations
Professional development. The CTC staff should nurture the professional development of the
faculty and students of the College of Education and enhance their abilities to use new
technologies for teaching and learning. The staff could work with other disciplines in the College
of Education to increase the level of effectiveness of the CTC Lab. In addition, the CTC staff
should work with other departments in Ohio University, such as Information Technology, to
benefit from their experience in the field of technology.
Improving effectiveness and efficiency in the CTC Lab. Although the CTC Lab contains a lot of
equipment and has much potential, some aspects still need to be developed. Most of the
computers are not updated, because it is hard to update them separately. However, we found that
this system takes time and effort. Using new software would improve the CTC Lab performance.
For example, the Group Policy Microsoft Management Console (MMC) could be the optimal
solution to increase innovation in the CTC. MMC can effectively manage and control the
workstation by providing security, ensuring application availability, providing software updates,
and reducing costs to do these tasks (Microsoft, 2013). The Group Policy can also control
domain settings for the following: registry-based policies, security options, software installation
and maintenance options, script options, and folder redirection options (Microsoft, 2013). In
addition, (SUS) Software Update Services enable system and network administrators to update
Windows servers and Windows-based workstations from a single location through the network
(Microsoft, 2013).
Besides finding an appropriate system to manage the work in the CTC Lab, organizing
and categorizing the tools will make the work more efficient. During our work in the CTC Lab,
we found many cables, adapters, and equipment placed randomly. Preparing designated places
for the equipment will make them easily accessible when needed.
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