Possible project for getting work between home and school or college

[littleman]

Hey

I've just finished a my degree in software development and am looking for projects. when i was at school one of the biggest problems i had was getting work between home and college constantly forgetting discs etc.

Do you think there would be an interest for schools in software that would allow students to upload and download there work, notes etc to and from an online server using a simple user friendly interface

Allowing students to work on there coursework from anywhere with an active internet connection.

Thanks

[science_monkey]

Hi Littleman! I think that uploading/downloading work between teacher and student is a wonderful idea. During my undergrad and graduate work at various institutions we had several varieties of software similar to the type you mentioned. Blackboard is used by many colleges and universities, and I know that Penn State Hershey Medical Center uses a program called Angel to relay coursework between faculty and students. Wikis can also be a great tool as well.

My only apprehension about using server-based programs at the high school level is that you still will run across some students who do not have computers. Granted, they may have access to computers via friends or libraries, but assignments that are required to be handed in digitally may be difficult for them to stay on top of.

That point aside, I think it's a wonderful idea. I communicate with my students through a classroom blog I set up so they can stay on top of assignments and get supplementary notes I post. It is not required of them to go online to check it; I simply have it for those who wish to use it in addition to in-class material.

I'm a huge fan of technology use in education (when properly implemented), and I think that when used correctly server-based tools such as those mentioned can be great for both teachers and students.

[mopar]

I think that a lot of school districts would like something like this. Many of my students are given time to work on a paper and then need to finish it at home. This would simplify them needing to email it to themselves or bring a disk.

[mopar]

I know that there is a lot of great reading software out there but have still to find some great math software that addresses concepts. If you are good at math, it might be great to make some math software to play games on different math topics. Also, anything science and social studies would be great.