September 3, 2014 at 2:00 PM - Technology Committee Meeting

Discussion:  Staff: Deb Hericks Visitors: Jody Phillips (ESU 2 Rep)

Discussion:  Scott Isaacson gave the report regarding the Learning Management System (LMS). Changes/Updates to the budget will allow for the ability to contract with someone to assist with the LMS.

Discussion:  Regarding Angel, in august an update was made. This is possibly the last update for this software. Therefore, Angel might not be an option in the not so distant future. Scott also reported that they have been working with BlackBoard to migrate courses from Angel.

Discussion:  Gordon Rothmeyer reported that a survey has been sent to gather information about LMS. Scott reported that the survey information would assist us in moving in the right direction as it pertains to a “statewide model.” Additionally, it was shared that the cost of BlackBoard will not change, but the number of licenses will decrease (somewhere around 26,000 users at this point). Furthermore, BlackBoard is looking to move their service to the “Cloud.”

Discussion:  Dave Ludwig has been working with Commissioner Bloomstedt regarding funding options for an LMS system. Discussions will continue, and there appears to be lots of possibilities. Dave Ludwig asked the group for feedback regarding what the LMS should look like in the future.

Discussion:  We will pilot several LMS systems in the state. ie: Schoology, Canvas, Moodle, ANGEL, BlackBoard, etc. Hope to create a team to review these systems and come to a statewide consensus on LMS. Wayne Bell said schools use different products and that the LMS products being used required support. The need for “support” will not change. Bob Uhing shared that as we move forward any LMS system should meet certain (minimum)(IMS Global) “standards.” A recommendation was made that a “sub-committee” meet, establish deadlines and determine what LMS Systems would meet Federated Identity Management criteria. Additionally, there was a long discussion regarding the “support” of any product, or products, that might be chosen by a sub-committee. Dr. Bell shared that BlendEd (and it’s future) needs to be a part of the conversation. The subcommittee will be given a timeline of 60 days to complete their recommendations and should report back by (November). Subcommittee Craig Hicks Chris Goode Jason Everett, Dr. Curtis Case Kirk Langer (or LPS representative) Dawn Ferreira from OPS; and ESU 3 representatives A specific “charge” for the committee will be discussed and developed by tomorrow afternoon September 4).

Discussion:  Dave Ludwig reported that Kristine Swanson from Bright Bytes has shared that Bright Bytes would like to go “state-wide.” The cost would be around $250,000 or $0.75/student. Dave indicated through recent conversations he has had with NDE that Dean Folkers was initially unaware of the capabilities of Bright Bytes. Dave will continue to work with Matt Blomsted regarding possible funding for a statewide initiative.

Discussion:  Ron Cone shared information pertaining to NOC. One of the recent topics included shared “unique” services that can be located at individual service units. More specifically, each service unit would specialize in one particular area of expertise.

Discussion:  Gary Needham shared important updates regarding e-rate. President Obama has actually mentioned updates to e-rate and the e-rate process. An official document was created on July 11th. There will be changes and limits will be placed on what will be covered under “e-rate.” Wireless networking will get an initial push, providing reimbursement and such reimbursement will include wiring, switches, etc. These services will be covered starting in April (ahead of the official date in July). Gary shared that the question before us is “what does this mean for ESUs moving forward?” Gary suggested that we should do a consolidated or state-wide “hardware bid.” Individual schools can independently decide whom to use for implementation. The COOP Committee should also be involved, as the bid will probably work best at a state level. Bob Uhing shared that the ESUCC should be involved using information and guidance from the NOC. Bob also stated that we should be prepared to move quickly.

Discussion:  Gordon Rothmeyer shared that we have purchased 50 licenses. The product is being embraced and used. Adding additional licenses has come up, but at this time, it does not seem to be a priority. Additional licenses must be purchased in packages of 10. At this time, the total cost for the ESUs is between $400 and $450 dollars. Ashland-Greenwood is using Zoom for a distance-learning course. Additionally, Gordon shared that Clearsee is also a nice product.

Discussion:  A five-member team has developed a job description, and Scott Isaacson led the team. This is the first step toward bringing this position “in house.”

Discussion:  NDE might require updates to ED FI, but ESUs should be reimbursed.

Discussion:  Safari Montage: EdCast program bugs discovered over the summer are fixed. All of the Learn360 links that were corrupted have been restored on all ESU servers. New Learn360 content will be added this fall. NROC links are being added and will be available in September. Servers were updated to 5.9.33 to address known issues. Safari Montage development team is currently testing 6.0. No release date available at this time. The IMat affilliate is working on a draft to address EdCast Procedures for sharing content statewide. This document will be shared with the Technology Committee for review and approval once completed. IMAT Projects:Imat will begin previewing new content from various vendors this fall and will include both videos and other resources for the LOR. We continue to move forward and more use has been noted. Ron Cone stated there have been minor issues based on unique attributes. In the notes section of the Technology Committee’s agenda is additional information.