For Fiscal Years 1999-2003
The technology needs and objectives of the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (TSBVI) are broad in scope and have become a primary focus of the School's resources and service offerings. Instruction for students has expanded to include the integration of technology into content areas for both teaching and learning. This development of the technology program has been created through a coordinated multi-disciplined effort. Adaptive technology systems provide access to information for literacy, vocational opportunity, and personal development. These systems, as well as use of the computer for classroom administration application can be complex and difficult to master. As the integration of technology systems into instruction continue to progress, a systematic professional development plan will be implemented to meet the training needs of the instructional staff. The five curricular strands that comprise the curriculum will be revised to reflect the integration of technology to implement learning activities in the content areas. This cycle of training enables new technical innovation to evolve as staff become more technically sophisticated and student instruction becomes more structured.
Over the past several years, the School has dedicated staff and fiscal resources to expand service offerings to students and update the equipment resources for instruction. The majority of TSBVI students are involved with technology at their particular level of proficiency. Involvement ranges from the use of switch systems and augmentative communication devices for some students, to advanced telecommunication and personal computing for other students. As technology integration into teaching and learning expands, an interdisciplinary and integrated approach to planning and implementation will be vital to apply our resources effectively and efficiently.
The proliferation of desktop systems for administrative support is expected to continue to provide benefits and increased efficiency as new systems and techniques mature and develop. Among the key areas of new technologies, our challenge by 2002 will be to satisfy the expectations of the Technology Integration in Education grant (See Attachment 1).
This grant will fund development of technology to fulfill the School's mandate to serve as a statewide resource to families, professionals, and paraprofessional by employing distance learning technologies.
The key strategic areas of development for Funding Years 1997-2002 include:
Computer upgrades and Increased student access - Expanding the number of computers available to students in the instructional and residential settings will increase access to shared resources so students can have a context to do homework, pursue leisure activities, and explore the networked environment. Since many of the school's laptop computers are based on older, slower micro-processors, they need to be upgraded to current performance levels. Continued upgrade of the school's classroom desktop computers to multimedia computers will provide access to CD-ROM resources and full access to the curriculum through student use of add-on assistive software and adaptive/ augmentative devices.
Expanded teacher and staff training - Training is an ongoing need of TSBVI staff. As systems become more complex and applications more prevalent, staff must expand their skills to support student learning. With the advent and expansion of networked computers, training will address how to fully utilize the expanded tool-set. The school-wide Strategic Plan includes staff training and distance education models for integrating technology use with teaching and learning across the curricular areas. Training for administrative support staff will increase efficient use of the Microsoft Office environment and ease the transition from the older All-In-1 office automation software.
Continued implementation of network infrastructure and administrative application - New standards and skills are required to coordinate and manage Internet document publishing, configuration of desktops, and adaptation devices. The number of networked desktop computers will continue to increase as terminals are phased out and the resources shift to NT-based networking. Remote network access will be implemented to accommodate residential areas and work areas that do not have access to the fiber-optic network infrastructure.
Migration of the current VMS-based VAX 4000-200 processor and application software to Windows NT-based servers -This environment will support networked Windows-based and Macintosh clients, provide access to LAN-based applications. Upgrade of the technical environment will be a logical transition of the network to provide a more contemporary and supportable technical base. The migration planning would have the VAX computer uninstalled in fiscal year 2003. As part of that migration, all CRT terminals need to be replaced with desktop computers that provide expanded functionality. Funding and implementation of new accounting software will provide interpretive reports for end-user evaluation and analysis of accounting information, improving our use of the USAS and USPS systems. Budget management, General Ledger/cash status, and local fund accounting functions are not available in existing VAX/VMS reporting applications. These functions are not expected to materialize from the core USAS and USPS systems. Procurement of software is considered the only available alternative since the scope of the application is too broad for development by in-house technical staff. Various alternatives continue to be explored by TSBVI and other agencies in similar circumstances.
Distance Learning Technology - The School has received a Technology Integration in Education grant awarded by the Texas Education Agency to embark upon distance education programs. By developing the capability to use teleconferencing media, the School will be able to enhance the learning of children with visual impairments throughout Texas. This technology would allow for the School to provide valuable information about curriculum, materials, technology, teaching strategies, and pre-service training to professionals, parents, and other interested individuals by creating electronic links to regional education service centers, school districts, institutions of higher education, and other agencies. Such technology can provide information, training, and follow-up while reducing the time and expense of travel.
Expanded application of World Wide Web Technologies - Web-based development has proven effective in service delivery. Continued development in providing on-line query of TSBVI statewide functions, such VI Registration and Technology Loan equipment status and availability will be developed. Exploitation of Intranet technology is expected to provide new levels of agency collaboration and productivity.
The Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired derives its authority to operate and its purposes from the Texas Education Code (TEC 30.021). In brief, the law describes the scope and functions of the school "to serve as a special school in the continuum of statewide alternative placements for students who are 21 years of age or younger ...and who have a visual impairment and who may have one or more other disabilities". The law also sets forth these additional purposes for the School:
The School is governed by a nine-member Board of Trustees comprised of parents, blind individuals, and people with experience working in the profession. TSBVI is a complex organization in the scope of services it provides and the multiple service delivery models it maintains. TSBVI is a 24-hour residential school program that provides intensive instructional programming for students with diverse educational needs. The students' exposure to technology range from adaptive and conventional technology training with academic students to the use of cause and effect switch technology with multiply impaired students. As an organization, the school administers an eleven million dollar budget and requires accounting and financial management systems to manage diverse fiscal systems that range from student banking accounting to personnel and budget management of almost 400 contract and classified employees to federal fund management and accounting. Various state-wide functions are provided by TSBVI and numerous programs for students with visual impairments depend on services we provide.
In order to support the State Strategic Plan to integrate government services by developing, implementing, and maintaining a statewide information resources infrastructure, the School requires effective information management systems. These systems assist program staff in processing new students, tracking progress in learning, and supporting the intensive instructional programs provided to students. Another important area of technology application at TSBVI is providing appropriate computing resources to staff. These resources range from desktop publishing of curriculum publications on Macintosh computers; support of over 170 staff accounts on the VAX-based office automation software, All-In-1; using over 200 Windows and Macintosh computers for classroom management; report writing; and student instruction. In developing the systems at TSBVI, a prevailing concern must be to develop systems that are accessible to visually impaired staff and students and can easily output the data into Braille, large print, voice output, and regular text. Many TSBVI staff have varying work schedules and limited "office-time." Use of electronic mail is extremely effective to enable communication between the various departments during slotted periods of the employees' work schedules. Use of electronic mail enables more productive and time-efficient communication, providing staff more available time for student-related and qualitative activities. As mandated in the State Strategic Plan, all TSBVI technical resources are based on industry standard architectures to insure coordinated resource sharing.
Acquisition, use, and management of information technology at TSBVI supports the State Strategic plan to insure that decisions are driven by the recognition and understanding of user needs in its varied program offerings. A primary focus of TSBVI's mission is to support local school districts. The School serves as a clearinghouse for reference information and identified areas of need. In order for the School to offer services where they are most needed staff of the School's outreach programs provide those services through multiple delivery methods. It is equally important that the staff of TSBVI have the knowledge and skills to both teach students and to serve as resources to other teachers and parents throughout the State. The technical abilities of staff at the School currently range from the inexperienced to the sophisticated. Effective technology systems must be easy to use, require relatively short training programs, and be supportable by a small technical staff.
A major initiative since 1995 has been to implement a campus-wide local area network. This network connects most of the desktop computers. Though most wiring preparations have been completed, numerous issues are yet to be resolved in the use and configuration of networked computers with the variety of adaptive equipment and software in use at TSBVI. Documentation of these configurations will be critical to develop a base of information not only to assist in the support of students using the devices at TSBVI, but also to assist local school district teachers and students throughout the state. Teachers and students have access in the classroom to instruction-oriented software systems such as the school library system, grade reporting/scheduling system, student database, and other systems oriented to reduce the paperwork of instructional staff and provide support tools to improve instructional effectiveness. The IEP progress reporting system has provided instructional staff a structured method to create, store, retrieve, revise, and update student performance information.
Internet access enables staff members to use electronic resources such as the World Wide Web, The Texas Library Connection, the Educational Software Selector (TESS), and resources available through the Web site of the Texas Education Agency, and online resources from Regional Education Service Center XIII, and electronic mail. With the availability of electronic mail and the World Wide Web, instructional staff has started the process of documenting their expertise so that their unique skills and abilities may be shared with other professionals through the TSBVI web site. The best examples of this information sharing are in the See/Hear newsletter that is produced monthly (considered one of the best resources in the nation for specific content information) and a series of resource pages for Math instruction of students with visual impairments. Access to these two content areas on the Web-site have grown exponentially over time, indicating the significant need that exists for the development of such resources.
To increase student access to computers outside the classroom, the local area network will be expanded to the residential areas with dial-up access to provide remote access to network resources. In addition to applications of micro-processor based hardware and software systems to support the instruction of students and the professional development of teachers and related service staff, the School's technology systems must also support the administrative functions of the School. The use of the Uniform Statewide Accounting System (USAS) and Uniform Payroll System (USPS) accounting system has not been completely effective. TSBVI has found that the USAS and USPS systems do not meet budget management and cash accounting requirements to accommodate needs of the agency. Use of extensive uploads to the USAS from in-house systems has greatly assisted accounting staff and has limited the need for direct data entry into USAS. Meaningful interpretive reports for end-user evaluation and analysis from data integrated from USAS will hopefully be procured commercially.
The School has entered into a cooperative contract with the Region XI Education Service Center in Ft. Worth to develop software for managing the ordering, shipping, and tracking of instructional devices and materials available to Texas schools as part of the American Printing House for the Blind program. This electronic management system has resulted in materials being provided to teachers statewide on a "when needed-where needed" basis. The School is also providing support to the electronic database for statewide registration of students with visual impairments reported to the Texas Education Agency. Information management system for the Technology Loan program was written for desktop processing from the old VAX-based system, improving the application and positioning the system for web-based distribution of status and availability information on loans and equipment.
Tenets of the School's approach to instructional technology:
The Agency Strategic plan contains an extensive review of Information Resources External/Internal Assessment.
| Planning Factor | Assumption |
|---|---|
| Need for adequate budget management, general ledger reporting, and local fund management | The Uniform State-Wide Accounting System will not satisfy agency accounting needs |
| Need for incorporation of video conferencing technologies | Continued expansion of outreach services and delivery of services via distance learning through implementation of the TIE grant. |
| Increased in demand on information and support systems | Continued emphasis on transition planning policies for student intake/dismissal |
| Need for ongoing technical training of staff in use and integration of technology systems | As use of technology becomes more pronounced in the organization, the need for training becomes more critical for successful use of the systems. |
| Increased complexity of technical systems | Technology planning will be integrated within various technology committees that span instructional and administrative applications |
| Need for Standards Development for Core Architecture | Technical staff will be involved in administrative planning and policy development |
| Increased CPU processing and memory requirements for adaptive software | Funds will be available to upgrade instructional desktop computers to run assistive/adaptive software for student access |
| Support of VH professionals throughout Texas | Development of systems for the inter-networking of TSBVI with other agencies serving persons with visual impairments to access students and teachers, regardless of distance separation |
| VAX computer will become less supportable over time as hardware and software elements are retired | Funds will be available to migrate existing applications and server function to Windows NT |
| Existing Mac Server Software (Pathworks) has been retired by the manufacturer | Alternative server functions will continue to be available with the Windows NT platform |
| Open systems software is required for application development | Speech and screen review software will support modern object-oriented application environments |
| Need for technical resources | Adequate staff resources will be maintained to support existing applications and develop systems for efficient processing of fiscal and student information |
There are four primary strategies that the School can employ to acquire and maintain the hardware, software, professional development, and other services to implement the Technology Plan:
Agency Goal #1: Students who are visually impaired or deafblind will demonstrate the skills and knowledge to lead vocationally, personally, and socially satisfying lives, as demonstrated by academic success and successful transition to the community.
Agency Objective: Students attending TSBVI during the regular school year will annually demonstrate success in their education programs.
IR Goal #1: The School will facilitate the use of technology to maximize independence and productivity of all students who are blind, have a visual impairment, or who are deaf/blind, including those with additional disabilities.
IR Objective #1: Students will have current instructional technology available to them with the capabilities appropriate to their special needs.
IR Strategy #1: Upgrade current instructional technology systems to replace outdated systems according to assessed upgrade needs.
Action Item 1: Assess viability of current technologies
Action Item 2: Review current equipment to assess functionality
Action Item 3: Target equipment to be replaced
Action Item 4: Prepare funding proposal
Action Item 5: Procure and install replacement equipment
Timeline: Funding Year (FY) 97-98
IR Strategy #2: Expand distribution of computing resources through the implementation of a school-wide local area network.
Action Item 1: Assess logical expansions of the network to buildings without access
Action Item 2: Instruct staff in new technology systems
Timeline: FY 97-99
Evaluation Strategies for Objective: By 1999, the School will meet the technology equipment targets for students adopted in the Long-Range Plan for Technology, 1996-2010 of a student-to-workstation ratio of 3:1. By 1999, 90 percent of classrooms will have a minimum of one computer workstation linked to a school-wide local area network.
Objective #2: Students will use technology commensurate with their abilities to enhance personal productivity
Strategy 1: Integrate technology applications into the five curricular strands
Timeline: FY 98-2000
Strategy 2: Implement instruction for students designed to promote the following uses of technology:
Action Item 1: Develop and implement curriculae in the areas of keyboarding, word processing, access hardware and software, personal tools
Action Item 2: Develop and implement a technology assessment for students' needs for and use of adaptive/assistive technology tools
Action Item 3: Explore the feasibility of using computer-assisted instruction in the curricular areas.
Timeline: FY 98-2000
Evaluation Strategies for Objective: By 2000, the School's written curriculum will contain elements in the areas of computer skills, applications, and access hardware and software. By 1999. 100 percent of enrolled students will be assessed to determine students' needs for and use of adaptive/assistive technology devices.
Objective #3: Train all instructional staff in the use of technology for teaching
Strategy 1: All instructional staff will acquire a working knowledge of screen reading programs in a Windows environment, screen enlarger software, Braille translation software, electronic Braille input devices, word processing software, an Internet browser, email.
Action Item 1: Develop and implement a plan to train all instructional staff to integrate technology use into teaching of content areas
Action Item 2: Develop training modules and implementation checklist for each assistive add-on software, augmentative, and adaptive device used by students in learning
Action Item 3: Determine training groups based on existing knowledge and skills
Action Item 4: Determine a training schedule and number of training hours during scheduled work hours and training time after work hours for which participants receive extra-duty pay
Action Item 5: Develop and implement a system for follow-up training on an individual basis by peer mentors
Timeline: FY 98-2000
Strategy 2: Training groups will learn to identify and use appropriate assistive/adaptive technology tools to increase individual student learning by enabling full access to the curriculum.
Action Item 1: Identify activities in content areas appropriate for use of different add-on assistive software and adaptive/augmentative devices
Action Item 2: Assess students' needs to match technology to instruction
Action Item 3: Use Internet resources
Action Item 4: Develop and implement use of checklist as evidence of classroom use of technology and portfolios as evidence of student progress
Timeline: FY 98-2000
Strategy 3: Provide opportunities for Technology Specialists to receive ongoing training in emerging technologies and new applications of existing technology for blind, visually impaired, and deafblind students.
Action Item 1: Seek external funding sources to support out-of-state training
Action Item 2: Develop and implement a Trainer-of-Trainer model
Timeline: FY 97-2000
Evaluation Strategies for Objective: By 2000, a written plan will be implemented describing ongoing professional development activities to train and maintain the skills of all instructional staff in the use of technology for teaching. By 2000, 90 percent of instructional staff will have received training and demonstrated proficiency in the use of technology on a skills checklist or other written assessment instrument.
Objective #4: The curriculum will be revised to reflect integration of technology to implement learning activities in the content areas
Strategy 1: Revise Basic Skills, Functional Academics, Academic, and Early Concepts
Timeline: FY 98-2000
Strategy 2: Develop Applied Academics to reflect technology integration
Timeline: FY 98-2000
Evaluation Strategies for Objective: By 2000, the scope and sequence of the School's curriculum will contain learning activities integrating technology into learning.
Objective 5: Students will learn to use appropriate technology in order to acquire the knowledge and skills specified in their Individual Education Plan (IEP).
Strategy 1: Teachers will integrate technology use into content areas to enhance student learning
Action Item 1: Teachers will design instructional units to incorporate individual technology uses by students.
Action Item 2: Student use of technology will be considered in the development of each student's IEP.
Timeline: FY 98-2000
Strategy 2: Teachers and students will have access to appropriate technology
Action Item 1: Develop and implement minimum hardware and software configurations across curricular areas and school-wide locations.
Action Item 2: Upgrade current equipment and purchase new equipment to ensure the capability to run assistive add-on applications
Action Item 3: Expand access to technology across instructional, vocational, and residential programs
Action Item 4: Create a software review committee
Action Item 5: Expand contacts with vendors for opportunities for beta testing new technologies, evaluating accessibility, previewing new products, and disseminating product information
Timeline FY 98-2000
Evaluation Strategies for Objective: By 1999, 100 percent of students' IEPs will contain goals, objectives, or modifications integrating the use of technology, when technology assessments indicate such a need.
Information Resources Goal 2: Create and maintain information systems and procedures that efficiently accommodate Legislative and/or Board rule changes as they occur, interface efficiently with other government entities, and provide functional management and efficient administration of school business.
Objective 1: Document and make accessible to persons with visual impairments all agency data systems.
Strategy: Utilize electronic publishing software to provide an accessible, centralized repository of agency information.
Action Item 1: Continue to expand the TSBVI web site
Action Item 2: Explore and develop guidelines and implementation strategies for establishment of intranet
Action Item 3: Train information providers in system update methods
Timeline: FY 98-2000
Evaluation Strategies for Objective: Through years 1998-2000, the number of individuals accessing the School's Web site will increase by 20 percent annually. A monthly written report will document the usage.
Strategy Implement Library and Circulation System
Action Item : Review current system requirements
Action Item : Purchase Commercial Software
Action Item : Implement system
Timeline: FY 2002
Evaluation Strategies for Objective: Through years 2002, Updating and cataloging of Library resources to determine functional specifications for the new system. New system will be cross platform and accessible via the World Wide Web.
Objective 2: Coordinate administrative technology applications and information exchange with external agencies including, but not limited to: Local Education Agencies, Commission for the Blind, Texas Education Agency, State Agencies, the University of Texas, and other organizations or individuals serving visually impaired individuals.
Strategy 1: Continue to support and integrate the Uniform Statewide Accounting System, Uniform Statewide Payroll System, and State Property Accounting
Action Item 1: Investigate internal modifications to increase reporting reliability
Action Item 2: Improve analysis reporting from USAS, SPA, USPS extraction data
Timeline: FY 99-2001
Strategy 3: Asses risk and impact of year 2000 issues to agency information systems
Action Item 1: Identify year 2000 issues and impact factors
Action Item 2: Review application software and existing hardware
Action Item : Modify Student Trust Fund system to correct failure points
Action Item : Modify Warehouse Inventory System to remove failure points
Action Item 3: Take preventative steps to minimize agency risks
Timeline: FY 97-99
Strategy 4: Investigate and implement new accounting system.
Action Item 1: Define system requirements/enhancements
Action Item 2: Research options
Action Item 3: Select and implement system
Timeline: FY 2000
Strategy 5: Investigate and implement new Student Database System
Action Item 2: Identify additional reports, query, and data analysis requirements
Action Item 3: Incorporate new requirements such as PIEMS data reporting and interchange
Action Item ?: Identify Student data correlates with TEA staff for PIEMS.
Action Item ?: Review Fiscal data correlates with TEA staff for PIEMS
Action Item 1: Establish comprehensive system design and specification requirements
Action Item ?: Research availability of commercial software solutions and purchase and implement or employ contract programming services to develop software with project management provided by agency technical staff.
Timeline: FY 2001
Strategy 6: Exploit Web-based technologies
Action Item 1: Review existing applications, VI Registration, Technology Loan, APH Materials/Management for potential deployment of Web-based query
Action Item 2: Establish system design and implementation timelines
Action Item 3: Deploy Intranet to coordinate agency resource development and distribution
Timeline: FY 99-2001
Strategy 8: Migration of system from VAX to Windows NT
Action Item 1: As staff become more competent with new desktop mail and Microsoft Office, phase out their use of VAX-based All-In-1
Action Item 3: Identify and define new requirements for VAX application software such as Weekends Home, Student Course Information system, Warehouse Inventory, Student Trust Fund, Outreach contact database.
Action Item 2: Establish timeline and schedule the rewrite or purchase of commercial software to replace VAX-based software functions.
Action Item 3: Migrate existing print server functions from the VAX to Windows NT
Timeline: Ongoing through 2003
Strategy ?: Provide opportunities for administrative staff to develop new computer skills to increase staff productivity.
Action Item 1: Provide Windows 95/98 training.
Action Item 2: Create and distribute user training materials on Microsoft Office oriented to needs of TSBVI staff
Action Item 3: Provide training for staff updating of web-based resource information
Timeline: FY 99-2003
Strategy 4: Review disaster recovery planning
Action Item 1: Review procedures and contingency planning and assess relevancy
Action Item 2: Identify new areas of risk exposure.
Action Item 3: Identify new resources/methods to assist in disaster recovery interchange
Timeline: FY 1999
Evaluation Strategies for Objective: (Strategies 1-8 are completed) By 1999, the School's Technology Services Department will have a written disaster recovery plan.
Agency Goal 2: Families professionals and paraprofessionals will have the knowledge and skills necessary to improve educational programming and other services for all Texas students who are visually impaired or deafblind.
Information Resources Goal: The School will provide adaptive technology training and support to local school districts, Regional Education Service Centers, educators, students, and families to maximize the use and effectiveness of technology for students who are blind, have a visual impairment, are deafblind, including those with additional disabilities.
Objective 1: Provide adaptive technology equipment, software, training, and technical support to students attending their local schools
Strategy 1: Maintain, expand, and upgrade the Technology Loan Program
Action Item 1: Determine funding system to provide maintenance, upgrade, and expansion
Action Item 2: Establish a system to replace and upgrade equipment and software
Action Item 3: Maintain and refine the Program catalog as a source of information
Action Item 4: Consider incentives for families to become knowledgeable about their child's technology use
Timeline: FY 97-98
Strategy 2: Develop and provide training and assistance in adaptive technology on a statewide basis to families, professionals, and paraprofessionals
Action Item 1: Assist Regional Education Service Center personnel, local school district personnel, and agency personnel who serve blind, deafblind, and visually impaired students with the design and implementation of appropriate technology
Action Item 2: Provide local, onsite technical assistance and assessment of student technology needs to direct service providers
Action Item 3: Assist families of blind, deafblind, and visually impaired students with technology issues related to their child
Time line: FY 97-98
Evaluation Strategies for Objective: Annually, 90 percent of students and
LEAs participating in the
Technology Loan Program will indicate their satisfaction with this service
as measured on a survey
instrument. Ninety percent of a sample of parents and professionals surveyed
will rate as satisfactory or above the training and assistance received in
adaptive technology.
Objective 2: Families, professionals, and paraprofessionals will have access to resources related to technology
Strategy: The School will use technology as a method to fulfill its mandate to serve as a statewide resource to families, professionals, and paraprofessionals
Action Item 1: Design a database to identify market trends in requests for and provision of outreach services
Action Item 2: Maintain and expand an electronic repository that is equally accessible by blind and sighted individuals
Action Item 3: Provide online classes and instructional materials through the School's Web site, the Internet, video conferencing, and other distance learning strategies
Timeline: FY 98-2000
Evaluation Strategies for Objective: Document 100 percent completion of Action Items by 2000
Objective 3: School instructional staff, field-based educators, those participating in preservice certification programs, and families will gain knowledge and skills in the area of technology use for learners who are blind, visually impaired, deafblind, and including those with additional disabilities.
Strategy 1: Create and use an onsite training/distance learning facility to provide a model location for the delivery of accessible content via distance education technologies
Action Item 1: Upgrade/improve existing infrastructure to accommodate new technology
Action Item 2: Integrate new technology with existing technology to ensure interoperability with ESCONETT and the Internet
Timeline: FY 98-2002
Strategy 2: School staff will use the training/distance learning facility to deliver and receive distance learning content.
Action Item 1: Establish an advisory group to plan and design distance learning content
Action Item 2: Train distance education users/presenters to use equipment
Action Item 3: Train content developers in distance education instructional design
Action Item 4: Train content developers to use content development tools to ensure accessible content
Action Item 5: Develop and maintain a distance education component for the School's existing Web site
Timeline: FY 98-2002
Strategy 3: Design and implement educator development using distance learning for field-based staff and families through the Regional Education Service Centers and local school districts to meet expectations for technology proficiencies.
Action Item 1: Provide training statewide to teachers of students who are blind, visually impaired, or deafblind on technology assessments
Action Item 2: Conduct interactive technology assessments
Action Item 3: Provide training to field-based educators and families on current assistive technology software and devices for students with disabilities
Action Item 4: Provide incentives for families to become knowledgeable about their child's use of technology to learn
Timeline: FY 98-2002
Strategy 4: Provide disability-specific training toward certification in Visual Impairment using distance education in collaboration with Texas Tech University, Stephen F. Austin University, and the Texas Education Agency.
Action Item 1: Design and implement distance learning methodologies to support those involved in pre-service certification programs to learn about new technologies and using technologies effectively
Action Item 2: Deliver interactive courses via distance education from the School's distance learning facility
Timeline: FY 98-2002
Evaluation Strategies for Objective: Document 100 percent completion of Action Items by 2002
Agency Goal 3: We will establish and carry out policies governing purchasing and public works contracting that foster meaningful and substantive inclusion of historically underutilized businesses.
Information Resources Goal: TSBVI will increase purchases of product and service offerings from historically underutilized businesses
Objective: Increase volume of competitive purchases from historically underutilized businesses
Strategy: Review and consider product and service offerings from historically underutilized businesses whenever possible.
Action Item: Review purchasing catalogs and materials from historically underutilized businesses before making purchases
Timeline: FY 97
Evaluation Strategies for Objective: The School will meet the targets suggested by the Legislature for meeting this goal.
Designated as Information Resources Manager for TSBVI.
Supervise and direct all agency administrative computer applications. Manage Technology Services department activities including budget coordination, technical oversight, network planning and integration, and the overall technical environment. Assist instructional and administrative staff in the technical review and planning of educational systems/equipment. Analyze, design, and manage the implementation new programs/systems. Plan and coordinate agency procurement and operational management of computer hardware and software. Financial Accounting system analysis and management. Administrator of the Technology Loan Program. Coordinate agency use of Department of Information Resources common software. System manager of the VAX 4000-200 computer with responsibility for all account set-up, maintenance, and hardware/software installation and support. Manage all campus data and telephone network equipment and software. Keep up with current technologies.
Analysis, design, and development of new programs/systems with primary responsibility for financial management/accounting systems and student administration systems. Technical support for agency administrative applications on VAX, Windows, and Macintosh platform environment. Development of technical software documentation and task analysis. Technical support of networked computers.
Development of user documentation. Application systems support.. Initial user point of contact for training and technical support in the use of office automation and application systems...Performs special projects to research policy or implementation issues.
Assigned approximately 50% time to perform duties of maintenance, hardware setup and hardware troubleshooting. The remaining 50% of time is spent in maintenance and installation of communication media and support of the Schools telephone system. The technician assists with the purchasing of repair equipment and coordination with service providers. Documentation of technical interfaces and campus wiring topology.
Performs maintenance, hardware setup, and hardware troubleshooting on PC-based and specialized adaptive equipment. Documentation of technical interfaces and operational procedures. Performs software trouble-shooting and problem resolution. Performs evaluation of new adaptive equipment and development of documentation. Operational support of the Technology Loan program. Upgrade and support of Windows 95 operating system, operational support of local area networks.
Operational management of Technology Services procurement tracking, inventory, equipment repair, and employee time reporting. Assists in the maintenance of centralized PBX circuit assignments, call-accounting, and Audix Voice mail settings. Maintains various departmental databases for central support activities.
This position assists the technology teachers by performing troubleshooting and problem-solving for instructional hardware/software as well as assists in equipment and software management.
The administration of the School’s strategic plan for technology is deliberately decentralized to support the School’s wide-ranging purposes and mission. There is school-wide participation in the planning process. Technology Services staff work in collaboration with instructional and support staff to support the hardware and software systems. The two instructional and residential programs are directed by two school principals. Teachers and support staff’ in these two programs utilize technology to perform student assessment, develop curriculum, acquire or adapt specialized hardware and software, and to provide technology instruction to students and to other staff.
The Technology Services department also supports the outreach program of the School, a separate administrative division sometimes assisted by staff from either the Technology Services Department or from the instructional– residential programs. The Technology Services Department provides technical assistance to educators in local school districts, especially in the areas of infrastructure and special adaptations of electronic technology for blind and visually impaired students. It is also important to note that the Department administers a Technology Loan Program whereby specialized electronic devices, including laptop computers with speech synthesizers; Braille input and output devices; and other such devices, peripherals, or software are loaned to school districts for use by students.
| Category | Provide Brief Summary/Overview |
| IR Priorities | Priorities for administrative systems are determined at the administrative management level with planning and coordination through the Technology Services Department. Responsibility for the integration and coordination of information resources is at the department level. The Technology Services Department is responsible for enterprise-wide technical design, integration, and coordination. |
| IR Planning Methodology | Planning priorities are identified by the relevant department or task force and the input is provided to the Technology Services department for incorporation into technology plans |
| Operating Systems | Historically, administrative systems have been implemented within the VAX/VMS environment. The School Web server is implemented on an Alpha Server with Windows NT. Desktop configurations are based on Windows95 Network transport to Windows-based personal computers is with TCP/IP and NetBEUI protocols. Macintosh computers communicate with Encapsulated Appletalk on Ethernet or Ethertalk. Terminals communicate with the VAX through the Local Area Transport (LAT) protocols with printers connected as serial or Appletalk devices. With the addition of a web server running Windows NT, the support NT is a primary interest and focus for new development. |
| Software Development | With the advent of client-server architecture, new applications have been written and supported in Foxpro v2.6 over the past several years. Applications on VAX/VMS that are currently written in the COBOL language with conventional indexed sequential and/or relational database (Rdb) file structures, RALLY, and Datatrieve software will be re-written. In order to create systems that are based on open standards and accessible to individuals who are disabled, use of the Java language is under investigation for enterprise development |
| Office Automation | Over FY98, we have standardized on Microsoft Office suite for PC and Mac. Use of WordPerfect has been phased out with the advent of this standard. Use of this product-set enable sharing of files between the PC and Macintosh systems with run-time platform conversion. Several departmental systems are based on Filemaker Pro for its ease of use and simple forms based development modality with relational database file structures. |
| Software licenses | Centralized license compliance is the responsibility of the Information Resources Manager. Department license compliance is the managed within the individual departments. |
| Instructional Technology | Performance and operational standards for the instructional technology program are developed from collaborations of individuals assembled for the particular task or instructional objective. |
| Development Methodology | Over the past 2 years, the School has undergone structural changes in the management and planning of activities with the introduction of Total Quality Management ideals. Increased emphasis is placed on departmental decision-making for budget and planning. As a result, administrative planning is performed within a Task Force (or multi-disciplinary) context. The planning model for instructional technology is through a committee that consists of instructional technology teaching staff. For school-wide planning within the management team; technology policy, application development implementation, and budget planning, the agency Information Resource Manager is represented by the Director of Business, Technology, and Operation. The Director of Technology Services and members of his staff make recommendations to the management team on school-wide technology issues but do not actively participate in the decision-making process. |
| Quality Assurance Practices | The School's internal auditor generally reviews most software systems. Most new systems are designed and developed within a multi-disciplinary design team and this approach examines risk as part of the process. Generally, the System Life Cycle methodology is followed for the development of new software. Development of secure student administration systems within adequate protection of sensitive or confidential data is required. TSBVI intends to serve as an example of accessibility information access of the School’s administrative and instructional systems. |
| Change Control | This is part of the development process. Typically, due to the specialized nature of application at TSBVI, minor system modifications and enhancements are made after the software system has been used for several months. Self promotion of software is enable through journalized audit accounts for technical staff. |
| Security | TSBVI complies with state and professional standards to secure information from unlawful access. Access to confidential student records is limited to those individuals who have been authorized by school administrators. VAX system security is monitored by various software tools and structures. Though several break-ins have been attempted, to our knowledge, none have been successful. Security considerations and guidelines are reviewed with new computer users in conjunction with system training. |
| Geographic Information Systems | NA |
| Disaster Recovery/ Business Continuity Planning | In the event of a catastrophic disaster, it is anticipated that a VAX computer could be leased and installed within an acceptable time period. Archived backup data could restore the system to normal operation. A complete backup of all VAX data are made each evening and stored in a off-site location. A redundant backup the TSBVI web site is maintained at all times. Backup of desktop data is a departmental responsibility. |
| Resource Use | Currently, no voice or video computer applications are in use at TSBVI, though voice synthesis is commonplace and speech recognition is being explored to assist students with impaired dexterity and video computer applications will be implemented in FY99 with grant funding. |
| Contract/Consultant | Hardware contracts are maintained on VAX components that are too heavy to easily transport to local repair depots. Other school components are self-maintained. Professional consultants are used for specific purposes within the context of assisting in-house Technical staff to develop client-server applications. |
| Information Sharing | This is primarily limited to E-mail and transport of data files to/from USAS and USPS data systems. A school official authorizes public release of TSBVI data to maintain confidentiality. Electronic data is shared for special purposes such criminal history checks. Sharing school student data with TEA for the PEIMs system is under consideration. |
| Training and Continuing Education | Technical staff receive training by attending various seminars and conferences. Due to the specialized nature of adaptive technology application at TSBVI, training often entails out-of-state travel to obtain information. Instructional technology staff are responsible for training other TSBVI and statewide ISD staff in these specialized areas. Technology Services staff also receive training in conferences and seminar but less-so since there are more local training opportunities available. Often, Technology Services staff train from manuals since travel funds are limited. The Systems Support Specialist provides training to staff in TSBVI proprietary software, All-In-1 software, and the network environment. Training in the Microsoft Office suite is often obtained outside the agency with support provided by the Systems Support Specialist |
| Agency Platforms, Systems, and Telecommunications | ||||||
| Agency Platforms and Systems | ||||||
| Category | Type |
Operating System |
Database Mgmt. System |
Capacity/ Size/Count |
Comments/ Descriptive Information |
|
| Mainframe | NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
||
| Minicomputer | Digital Equipment Corporation |
VMS 6.1 |
Rdb/Oracle |
5 VUPS 50 concurrent processes |
VAX 4000-200, 160 All-In-1 Office Automation users, average of. | |
| LAN Servers (Central) | Digital Equipment Corporation |
Alpha NT |
Na |
96MB/?? Gig |
Used for Web site | |
| LAN Servers (Remote) | NA |
Na |
Na |
Na |
||
| LAN Client/Work-stations (Central) | Mac |
Mac OS x |
Filemaker Pro |
1 |
||
| LAN Client/Work-stations (Central) | PC |
Windows95 |
Foxpro 2.6 |
30, 486/33 40, 586/100-300Mhz 5, Pentium II |
Phasing out Pathworks networking on client side | |
| LAN Client/ Work-stations (Remote) | N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
||
| WAN Servers | VAX 4000-200 |
VAX/VMS |
Pathworks |
1 |
||
| Standalone PC Workstations | PC |
Windows 95 |
Fox Pro |
20 |
In residential areas | |
| Standalone MAC Workstations | Mac |
6.1 |
Filemaker Pro |
20 |
In residential areas. Older processors. | |
| Telecommunications Information | ||||||
| Category | Type |
Capacity/ Size/Count |
Comments/ Descriptive Information |
|||
| Hubs | DEChub 90/Digital Equipment Corp. | 8 | 10Mbps, each hub is its own bridged segment | |||
| Hub Routers & Switches (Remote) | Na |
Na |
||||
| Remote Bandwidth Analog | N/A |
Number of Lines |
||||
| Remote Bandwidth Digital 56K or less | N/A |
Number of Lines |
||||
| Remote Bandwidth Digital T1 | N/A |
1 |
General Serviices Commission Telecommications Division | |||
| Remote Bandwidth ISDN (BRI) | N/A |
Number of Lines |
||||
| DTE/End User Equipment Arrangement | Workstations, LANs, Mainframe Devices, Other |
N/A |
||||
| Supported Protocols | TCP/IP, Appletalk, NetBEUI, LAT, Telnet, FTP, HTTP, Ethertalk, DECnet, LAT |
N/A |
||||
| Internet Service Provider | NA |
N/A |
||||
| Shared Network | Stephen F. Austin University for Video Network, ESCONETT |
N/A |
||||
The Texas School for the Blind uses an Definity G3i analog private branch exchange (PBX) for voice communications. The PBX is currently configured to provide 400 single-line service ports. This system provides off-campus service via 14 local two-way trunks and 16 Direct In-dial trunks. The school uses 1 bulk-billed watts line with AT&T as the carrier. For in-state service, the system uses 5 Station-to-Station (STS) trunks. One PBX console that has been adapted to provide an audible tone to alert the visually impaired operator that an outside call is incoming or an inside call is requesting assistance or connection to a TEXAN circuit. The use of voice mail has been well-received and an automated attendant system is under review.
Twelve years age, TSBVI implemented an Information Systems Network (ISN) for the primary implementation of data communications. The ISN is currently being phased out as buildings are networked with hub-based fiber optic components. The remaining devices non-networked buildings that are connected to the ISN, will be converted to access the VAX via modem. This equipment is expected to be retired in FY99.
The standard communication rate is 10MB Ethernet over fiber optic cable. Each fiber optic cable element is terminated with ST connectors that connect to DecHub 90 hub backplanes through a Fiber Optic bridge. This configuration will support terminal server and 10-Base-T repeaters. Twisted pair wiring within the networked building is standardized on Category 5 passive wiring components to each office location meeting the EIA568 standard. A wiring connection for telephones is also included. Currently, eight buildings are networked in this fashion with two more buildings scheduled. Installation is performed in-house. In the Technology Services office area a thin-wire Ethernet circuit provides networked connection for the Printserver 20, X-Window workstations, terminal servers, and a Cisco Router. One TI circuit provides a DECnet and TCP/IP protocols interface with General Services Commission network, connected by Cisco Routers. GSC provides domain name services and routes the TCP/IP and DECnet network traffic from TSBVI to the Internet. This circuit also routes all off-site electronic mail, host telnet connections, and production data traffic to other agencies. All remote printing from the USAS system is accomplished over this link and TSBVI uses the link to upload and download data files to the USAS via FTP.
|
Assistive Technology for Low Vision and Blind Users |
Function Provided |
|
Screen Reader Software |
Allows users to navigate through windows, menus, and controls while receiving text and limited graphics information through speech output or Braille display. |
|
Braille Display |
Provides line by line Braille display of on-screen text using a series of pins to form Braille symbols that are constantly updated as the user navigates through the interface. |
|
Text to Speech |
Translates electronic text into speech via a speech synthesizer. |
|
Screen Magnification |
Provides magnification of a portion or all of a screen, including graphics and windows as well as text. Allows users to track position of the input focus. |
|
Assistive Technology for Hearing Disabilities |
Function Provided |
|
Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) |
Provides a means for users to communicate over telephone lines using text terminals. |
|
Closed Captioning |
Provides text translation of spoken material on video media. Important computer applications include distance learning, CD-ROM, video teleconferencing, and other forms of interactive video |
|
ShowSounds |
Proposed standard would provide visual translation of sound information. Nonspeech audio such as system beeps would be presented via screen flashing or similar methods. Video and still images would be described through closed captions or related technologies. This capability would be provided by the system infrastructure. |
|
Assistive Technology for |
Function Provided |
|
Alternate Pointing Device |
Gives users with limited or no arm and hand fine motor control the ability to control mouse movements and functions. Examples include foot operated mice, head-mounted pointing devices and eye-tracking systems. |
|
Screen Keyboard |
On-screen keyboard which provides the keys and functions of a physical keyboard. On-screen keyboards are typically used in conjunction with alternate pointing devices. |
|
Predictive Dictionary |
Predictive dictionaries speed typing by predicting words as the user types them, and offering those words in a list for the user to choose. |
|
Speech Recognition |
Allows the user with limited or no arm and hand fine motor control to input text and/or control the user interface via speech. |
| Database Name | Student Database (SDS) |
| Database Description | A complex, highly normalized base that contains relations for a variety of student-related data. Extensive linking to other software systems by student SSN and integrated with office automation systems. |
| Database System | Rdb/Oracle RDO/SQL, COBOL |
| Estimated Physical Storage Requirements | Eleven Megabytes |
| Year 2000 | No Year 2000 risks have been identified |
| GIS Data Classification | NA |
| Sharing | We are currently coordinating with TEA to investigate upload of this data to the PIEMS database |
| Future | This system is scheduled to be re-written from VAX/VMS to the PC platform in 2001. |
Category Provide
| Database Name | Medical Limitations |
| Database Description | Stores medical data on students concerning medical limitations, medications, immunizations, and medical history. |
| Database System | Rdb/Oracle |
| Estimated Physical Storage Requirements | 1.25 Megabyte |
| Year 2000 | No Year 2000 risks have been identified |
| GIS Data Classification | N/A |
| Sharing | N/A |
| Future | This system is scheduled to be re-written from VAX/VMS to the PC platform in 2001. |
| Database Name | Maintenance Work Order |
| Database Description | Tracks work orders to provide status, repair history, and assignment information. |
| Database System | Rdb/Oracle |
| Estimated Physical Storage Requirements | Nine Megabytes |
| Year 2000 | No Year 2000 risks have been identified |
| GIS Data Classification | N/A |
| Sharing | N/A |
| Future | The system will need to be migrated from VAX/VMS before 2003. Investigation/Evaluation of commercial software will be reviewed as an initial planning event. |
| Database Name | Registration/ARD Tracking |
| Database Description | Contains elements to track flow of paperwork, student requests/requirments for fall and summer registration. |
| Database System | RMS indexed sequential file |
| Estimated Physical Storage Requirements | Two megabytes |
| Year 2000 | No Year 2000 risks have been identified |
| GIS Data Classification | N/A |
| Sharing | N/A |
| Future | This system will be incorporated in the Student Database re-write in 2001. |
| Database Name | Student Course Information System (SAA) |
| Database Description | Contains entry for all student courses, grades, and scheduling. |
| Database System | Rdb/Oracle |
| Estimated Physical Storage Requirements | 5 Megabytes. |
| Year 2000 | No Year 2000 risks have been identified |
| GIS Data Classification | N/A |
| Sharing | N/A |
| Future | This application will be migrated from VAX/VMS. Review of commercial software will be evaluated prior to in-house development. |
| Database Name | Student Incident Reporting (SIR) |
| Database Description | Contains information concerning behavior and injuries |
| Database System | Rdb/Oracle |
| Estimated Physical Storage Requirements | 1.25 Megabytes. |
| Year 2000 | No Year 2000 risks have been identified |
| GIS Data Classification | N/A |
| Sharing | N/A |
| Future | This system will be migrated from VAX/VMS as part of the Student database specifications in 2001. |
| Database Name | Warehouse |
| Database Description | All warehouse receipts and issues. |
| Database System | RMS ISAM |
| Estimated Physical Storage Requirements | Eight Megabytes. |
| Year 2000 | The system has year 2000 failure points and is currently under revision. |
| GIS Data Classification | N/A |
| Sharing | N/A |
| Future | This system will be migrated as part of the Accounting system in the year 2000. |
| Database Name | Student Trust System (STF) |
| Database Description | All student accounts receipts and expenditures. |
| Database System | RMS ISAM |
| Estimated Physical Storage Requirements | Seven Megabytes |
| Year 2000 | The system has year 2000 failure points and is currently under revision. |
| GIS Data Classification | N/A |
| Sharing | N/A |
| Future | This system will be migrated as part of the Accounting system in the year 2000. The unique nature of this software may require that we write it with in-house staff. |
| Database Name | Accounts Payable/Purchasing (APPS) |
| Database Description | Requisition and payable information and status. Several files linked by requisition number. |
| Database System | FoxPro 2.6 |
| Estimated Physical Storage Requirements | Six megabytes. |
| Year 2000 | No Year 2000 risks have been identified |
| GIS Data Classification | N/A |
| Sharing | Expenditures, Encumbrance, and payable transactions from this system are uploaded to the USAS system via FTP transport. |
| Future | This system may be migrated as part of the Accounting system in the year 2000. An alternative is to develop an interface to the purchased accounting software system. |
| Database Name | Library Management System (LRC) |
| Database Description | Catalog information for library media and books. Allows forfuture development of circulation system. |
| Database System | Rdb/Oracle |
| Estimated Physical Storage Requirements | 13 Megabytes |
| Year 2000 | No Year 2000 risks have been identified |
| GIS Data Classification | N/A |
| Sharing | We have transmitted Mark format files with the State Library and Archives agency |
| Future | This system was written using the "Marc" format standard for library interchange to aide in the migration to other systems. This migration is scheduled for 2001. |
| Database Name | American Printing House Materials Management System |
| Database Description | Maintains inventories and order information to support the management of the VH materials from Federal quota funds |
| Database System | FoxPro 2.6 |
| Estimated Physical Storage Requirements | 8 Megabytes |
| Year 2000 | No Year 2000 risks have been identified |
| GIS Data Classification | N/A |
| Sharing | Data is uploaded to the Texas Education Agency upon request. Order status and availability is planned for Web-content distribution in Fiscal year 2000. |
| Future | No migration at this time |
| Database Name | VI Registration Database (VI_REG) |
| Database Description | Contains annual registration of all visually impaired students in Texas |
| Database System | FoxPro 2.6 |
| Estimated Physical Storage Requirements | 10 Megabytes |
| Year 2000 | No Year 2000 risks have been identified |
| GIS Data Classification | N/A |
| Sharing | Data is uploaded to the Texas Education Agency annually. On-line registration is planned in Fiscal year 2000. |
| Future | No migration plans at this time. Integration with Web-based systems planned for Fiscal year 2000 |
| Database Name | Technology Loan Program |
| Database Description | Contains all inventory and descriptions for equipment available for loan to students with visual impairments |
| Database System | FoxPro 2.6 |
| Estimated Physical Storage Requirements | 6 megabytes. |
| Year 2000 | No Year 2000 risks have been identified |
| GIS Data Classification | N/A |
| Sharing | Order status and availability is planned for Web-content distribution in Fiscal year 1999. |
| Future | No migration plans at this time. |
| Application Name | Financial Administration |
| Application Description | The Financial Accounting system used by TSBVI is the Uniform State-Wide Accounting System (USAS) supported by the comptroller's office. We are an internal user of this software and the State-Wide Property Accounting system. The Supplies Inventory (Warehouse) used is a proprietary software system written in COBOL. We use the Uniform State-Wide Payroll System and a PC-based Purchasing/Obligation system. Supplementary reporting and fund management software has been written to increase the functionality of accounting reports from the data downloaded from USAS. All proprietary accounting software systems at TSBVI have data extraction features that provide data upload to USAS to avoid duplicate entry. |
| Database System | VAX Rdb/Oracle |
| Development Language | COBOL, FMS, |
| Year 2000 | List the compliance unit(s) associated with this application as tracked in the DIR Year 2000 Tracking System. |
| Sharing | TSBVI makes annual summary data report to the State Purchasing and General Services Commission of property transactions. |
| Future | Indicate planned modifications, conversions, or discontinuance of use during this planning period. |
| Application Name | Student Administration |
| Application Description | The Student Database system contains demographic and enrollment information on students in attendance at the Texas School for the Blind. Phase I of the system has been operational since 1988 and migrated to the in-house VAX in 1991 after a processor upgrade. The data from this system is collected and distributed in a variety of ways to meet the needs of the School. |
| Database System | VAX Rdb/Oracle |
| Development Language | COBOL, FMS |
| Year 2000 | No known year 2000 compliance issues |
| Sharing | |
| Future | This system is scheduled to be migrated from the VAX/VMS environment in 2001. Extensive review of specifications is required to incorporate current needs. |
| Application Name | Office Automation |
| Application Description | The initial implementation of the school's communication network with 38 users took place May 1987. At that time each user was created an office automation (All-In-1) account on the Department of Information Resources VAXcluster. This linking of the primary administrative functions of the school proved extremely successful and as planned in the 1986 four-year plan, a MicroVAX II was procured in the fall of 1987 and installed. All user accounts were moved in February 1988 and twelve new user accounts were added. The third phase in the fall of 1988 will complete with 26 terminals installed. The system reached capacity at that point with 68 terminals and 76 user accounts. The MicroVAX system was upgraded in 1991 with an in-cabinet upgrade to a VAX 4000-200 processor. Memory was expanded to 32MB and additional terminal servers and a high-capacity laser printer was added. Office automation, and especially electronic mail, has been universally accepted by the agency staff and has proven extremely beneficial as a communications tool, given the school's scope of service coordination and intense individualized approach to education. The Macintosh and MSDOS computers are integrated with the VAX this fiscal year via the Pathworks network. |
| Database System | VAX RMS |
| Development Language | All-In-1 Scripting Language |
| Year 2000 | None |
| Sharing | N/A |
| Future | This system is being phased out gradually as staff are migrated to Microsoft Office products on the PC and Mac. |
| Application Name | Library Management system |
| Application Description | This system was developed by the Texas School for the Deaf and given to TSBVI. The system was then converted to conform to 'Marc' format standards and the system is currently being loaded with title information. When this process is complete, a circulation system will be added to the system modules. The system was also redesigned to accommodate the multiple forms in which library matter may exist (Braille, large print, etc.). The system also provides for inventory of materials and media to provide an efficient method for instructional staff and students to access the system via conventional or adapted technology. The system complies with established TEA guidelines for electronic library architecture. |
| Database System | VAX Rdb/Oracle |
| Development Language | COBOL, FMS, |
| Year 2000 | NONE |
| Sharing | The data has been shared with the Texas Library Cooperative as a Marc file |
| Future | This system will be migrated from VAX/VMS to the desktop. Commerical software will be used that will need to be accessible by the Web. |
| Application Name | Accounts Payable/Purchasing System (APPS) |
| Application Description | All purchase requisitions are entered and the system provides receiving reports for the warehouse, status tracking of requisitions, and generation of payable transactions for general ledger update. After the requisition is filled, data is exported to the payment modules for voucher printing and generation of encumbrance transactions for general ledger update. This software is written in FoxPro 2.6. |
| Database System | Foxpro 2.6 |
| Development Language | COBOL, FMS, |
| Year 2000 | List the compliance unit(s) associated with this application as tracked in the DIR Year 2000 Tracking System. |
| Sharing | Indicate other organizations with which the agency shares this application. Include how the sharing occurs. |
| Future | Indicate planned modifications, conversions, or discontinuance of use during this planning period. |
| Application Name | APH Materials Management System |
| Application Description | Manages the ordering, shipping, and receipt of Federal Quota funded equipment from the American Printing House for the Blind. |
| Database System | VAX RMS |
| Development Language | All-In-1 Scripting language |
| Year 2000 | None |
| Sharing | None |
| Future | This system will be migrated from the VAX/VMS environment to the desktop platform. It will be included in the Student Database migration scheduled for FY2001. |
| Application Name | Student Registration Tracking |
| Application Description | Tracks registration elements during fall and summer student enrollment. Provides numerous status and management reports. Integrated with word processing system for generation of form letters. Entry performed in Center for School Resources with read-only access to numerous school staff for program planning. |
| Database System | VAX RMS |
| Development Language | All-In-1 Scripting language |
| Year 2000 | None |
| Sharing | None |
| Future | This system will be migrated from the VAX/VMS environment to the desktop platform. It will be included in the Student Database migration scheduled for FY2001. |
| Application Name | VI Registration System |
| Application Description | Manages annual registration of all students with visual impairments. Provides numerous status and management reports. Information is received from school districts throughout Texas to indicate enrollment, reading medium, etc.. |
| Database System | Foxpro 2.6 |
| Development Language | Foxpro 2.6 |
| Year 2000 | None |
| Sharing | Registration data of visually impaired students in Texas is provided by TEA annually to TSBVI on floppy disk. |
| Future | Investigation of Web-based processing of registration data. |