Collaboration requires several facets in order to be successful. Klonoski discusses proper timing for those involved, the right participants in the project, and an equitable cost saving for everyone, as important factors in creating partnerships. He also feels that the person who leads the group, or the �convener�, �should be a visionary, trusted broker with a track record of collaboration, political assess, and a positive relationship with the vendors�. The �convener� for this project was the Connecticut Distance Learning Consortium, a group that is �committed to providing the delivery of high quality online courses cost effectively and assuring that Connecticut is a national leader in distance education�. The Consortium is made up of members from colleges and private institutions in Connecticut.
Partnerships take time and require �energy, focus, and good humor�. The Connecticut project required three months of discussion within the committee and one month of negotiations with the vendor. Because of the large size of the group, the partners were able to negotiate an excellent price and had an influence on the features of the WebCT system that was designed for them. After negotiations, additional time was needed for approval of the proposal from all the participants.
Other states have approached the Consortium for information about this collaboration. There are additionaly areas where school districts might create partnerships to save money, including learning management, email, and student information systems. Klonoski suggests that administrators begin to think cooperatively now so that the future needs of students can be met.
The Technology Facilitator needs to evaluate current research on Educational Technology and learn about forming school partnerships to support technology integration. This article is an example of how the State of Connecticut was able to deploy a statewide learning management system to the benefit of the colleges in Connecticut. Although the article discusses the application of a partnership at the state level, I feel that this example is instructive to those working in a K-12 district because it discusses the process, timing, and finances involved in a collaborative acquisition of a technology resource. In my district, the voters rarely pass the school budget, and the administration continues to look for cost-reduction strategies while maintaining the excellent quality of education.
Klonoski is the Executive Director of the Connecticut Distance Learning Consortium and former Director of Information Technology at Charter Oak State College. Klonoski�s article comes from a presentation he made at the WebCT User Conference in Orlando, Florida. It is organized, well written, and straightforward. Klonoski uses hyperlinks throughout the article so the reader can explore the topic in greater depth if she desires.
Klonoski, E. (2005). Cost-saving collaboration: purchasing and deploying a statewide learning management system. Innovate 1(4).
ISTE Standard II
ISTE Standard III
ISTE Standard IV
ISTE Standard V
ISTE Standard VI
ISTE Standard VII
ISTE Standard VIII
Resume
Educational Philosophy
Program of Study
NJ CCCS
RSS FEEDS