Wireless Computing in School - Research Proposal Example

Teacher: INTRODUCTION The advent of Wireless Technology introduces a better approach to Local Area Networking, which promises mobility, productivity, and efficiency. Imagine that you be anywhere in the school and you still can access your network. You can be in the most remote and unlikely area in your school but you can still do research, check your mails, find answers to your questions, and surf the internet. The project would carry an appropriate title of "Wireless Computing In School" with a proposed subtitle "Anytime, Anywhere Learning". 1.1 TRADITIONAL WIRED NETWORKS LIMITATIONS As far as Computer Networking is concern, the most common sights are cable Inter- Connected workstations attached to a HUB. These are the traditional CAT5 copper cable or fiber Optic wired LAN runs in the ceiling and through walls. Data drop cabling in every possible locations of workstations for a single access point. Wired Networks are limited to a fixed location and installation of new access points for expansion are costly and time consuming. The problems we encounter at school using the existing traditional wired network is the limitations and unavailability of access outside computer laboratory and pre-defined locations in the campus. Students who wants to use the services have to squeeze their way into the labs on specific time when a workstation is available. With a big number of students who are using the lab, it is not be possible for other students to do their assignments and research on the same time. Students who has portable or laptop computers also have problems accessing the network due to the unavailability of access points. With the growing population of the students and the demand for anytime, anywhere computing is the primary concern of the project. 1.2 The Wireless Computing Project Planning & Implementation "Let us always remember that a cost-effective solution does not necessarily mean the cheapest" (Smith 1). There are "cost advantages" (Smith 1) to bear in mind in order to have an efficient LAN, wired or wireless. The project of incorporating a Wireless Network to existing wired LAN of the school will enable a complete turn around to the traditional limitations of wired LAN. The project implementation will cover the following important phases: a. Security Policy Verification of the existing wired LAN. b. Technical Review and Site Surveys c. Specifications of new wireless equipments to be installed. d. Procurement & Delivery of Equipments e. Installation/Incorporation to existing LAN. f. Testing and Adjustments THE PROJECT GANTT CHART 1.3 The Visualization of Wireless Computing Project Implemented in a School. Nowadays, many organizations are pulling their investment from copper wire cable and enhancing with wireless LAN. The bottom line is to add more access points within the building where existing LAN cannot accommodate. Colleges and corporate organizations need to have access in conference rooms, lobbies and in the remotes areas or outside their offices. The greater benefits of the convenience and efficiency of wireless network in the school where wireless computing would enable students and teachers access to computer conveniently and with great flexibility in classrooms. When we say mobility and flexibility, it means we can go anywhere but still online. Let us face the reality that we cannot take a desktop computer anywhere we like, unless you really want to tire yourself lifting it. A notebook or commonly called laptop computers are the best options for a wireless LAN. You can then bring your portable notebook anywhere (within range not less than 30 meters) and access the network software, printers, internets, email, and other useful network resources. The term use for this kind of modern computing in school is Anywhere, Anytime Learning. A real productive experience a wireless network implemented in a school. 2. REVIEW OF PROGRESS 2.1 The Wireless Computing Project Suitability to School Wireless users stays completely mobile with low bandwidth put at 80% of the time. If they need speedy access, they can always plug-in to into the physical network. This is useful when accessing video and large graphic files. Wireless laptop computers are easy to use and less intrusive inside a classroom. Schools is now providing better access to those special students with disabilities. Students according to some observations, exhibit greater integration of the technology within lessons than the usual desktop computers. Wireless networks enable user's greater freedom of movements, it allows easy presentation of work of work to other students and great possibility of work collaboration. Students can be anywhere and computing, inside a classroom (laptop on desk), on the floor and even sitting under a tree. Provides wireless access to critical information anywhere anytime in the campus. It makes teachers students grading and evaluation more flexible in no matter the class sizes are. Wireless networks also permit smaller space saving devices in classrooms that enable better teacher vision. Most importantly, wireless networks do not tangle and reduced the risk of students stumbling into a cable. Another seen advantage of wireless technology is helping the teachers in their classroom routine, there were fewer changes noticed. Wireless networks with laptops is now suitable for any teaching styles, no more students' heads obscurity by bulky computer and monitors. Portable wireless laptop are small, light and you can take anywhere in the classroom. Wireless computing in school boost productivity, making technology available to students with disabilities, can accommodate dynamic class sizes and provide more teaching spaces, improve sharing and maximized utilization, convenient access in large open area, mobile to cover sports and athletic events, flexibility in science labs, art, and other learning environment. 2.2. Strategic Description of the Implementation of the Project Wireless base stations or access points complying with 802.11g wireless standards to cover 25 to 100 meters were installed. Installation of proper antenna that will greatly improve coverage. Wireless networking cards installations in computers and integration of existing LAN management structure. Installation of Wireless LAN in lecture theatres, larger areas where a wired network is not possible. Use of wireless notebooks or laptops for teachers and students to enjoy the greater freedom, mobility, and versatility in their own classroom". Wireless network is now encouraging customized learning, flexibility for group work, collaboration, and multiple activities in the same room. 2.3 Summary of the Progress (Project Updates) The Technical Works Progress following Scheduled Activities The project is considerably progressing smoothly according to plan or scheduled activities, there were some adjustments made concerning the availability of the equipments and some unforeseen technical circumstances that needs minor adjustments. In general, the project implementation table were followed accordingly and project team made sure that everything is in proper order before commissioning. Implementation Scheduled Timing The project started as scheduled and took nine weeks as scheduled to attain the 100 percent status. There were some timing adjustments due to delays of equipments deliveries but they were compensated by the fast execution of the technical team. 2.4 Difficulties Encountered and Remedies Applied Additional Security Programs were requested by the school officials to ensure unauthorized access. Fast programming was done to create a reliable program that would check and secure the existing network. Unavailability and late deliveries of equipments. Contacted other sources and suppliers and made constant follow-up. 2.5 Project Supervision by Supervisor **NOTE: I think this part should come from a form filled up by supervisor. If not. Please tell me..thanks REFERENCES: Smith D., 2002, "Take Advantage of the Cost Savings of a Wireless LAN", [online], http://techrepublic.com.com/5100-6265-1052058-1.html Lightbody K., 2005, "Wireless Networking in Schools", [online], http://members.ozemail.com.au/cumulus/wireless.htm Cisco Systems, 2003, "2003 Wireless LAN Benefits Study", [online], www.cisco.com Read More