University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension Marketing Plan – Video Conferencing Systems / Services Prepared by: David T. Foote, Director, Information Technology and Distance Education, UNH Cooperative Extension, Taylor Hall, Durham, NH This marketing plan provides a framework for marketing UNH Cooperative Extension’s video conferencing systems and the Granite State Distance Learning Network (GSDLN) to a variety of groups including K -12 educators and administrators, college/university faculty and staff, non-profit organizations, local and state government agencies and departments, and more, to maximize use of the system and extend the benefits of these resources to a wide range of New Hampshire citizens. UNH Cooperative Extension video conferencing sites will be the primary provider of video conferencing services in the state. Benefits of video conferencing and learning at a distance include: • Saves travel time and costs to attend face-to-face meetings, workshops, training sessions, conferences, etc. • Provides access to resources available through satellite broadcasts and high-speed Internet connectivity. • Provides simultaneous interaction between participants located at multiple locations throughout the state, region, nation and world. • Allows teachers to teach at a distance using PowerPoint slides and to share documents with students at remote locations. • Easy to use with cameras that automatically focus, allowing presenters control of the system with a remote control. • Provides NH citizens and students with timely information that improves lives, the economy and environment.
Transcript
University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension
Marketing Plan – Video Conferencing Systems / Services Prepared by: David T. Foote, Director, Information Technology and Distance Education, UNH Cooperative Extension, Taylor Hall, Durham, NH
This marketing plan provides a framework for marketing UNH Cooperative Extension’s video conferencing systems and the Granite State Distance Learning Network (GSDLN) to a variety of groups including K -12 educators and administrators, college/university faculty and staff, non-profit organizations, local and state government agencies and departments, and more, to maximize use of the system and extend the benefits of these resources to a wide range of New Hampshire citizens. UNH Cooperative Extension video conferencing sites will be the primary provider of video conferencing services in the state.
Benefits of video conferencing and learning at a distance include:
• Saves travel time and costs to attend face-to-face meetings, workshops, training sessions, conferences, etc.
• Provides access to resources available through satellite broadcasts and
high-speed Internet connectivity.
• Provides simultaneous interaction between participants located at multiple locations throughout the state, region, nation and world.
• Allows teachers to teach at a distance using PowerPoint slides and to
share documents with students at remote locations.
• Easy to use with cameras that automatically focus, allowing presenters control of the system with a remote control.
• Provides NH citizens and students with timely information that improves
lives, the economy and environment.
The Equipment and GSDLN
Making resources and timely information available, and the technology accessible and easy to use, will drive the marketing of the video conferencing equipment/services and Granite State Distance Learning Network (GSDLN).
The equipment consists of state-of-the-art video conferencing hardware and software. PictureTel/Polycom products at each site incorporate cameras that automatically track to the person speaking in the room, table microphones and high resolution monitors provide the user with an outstanding audio and video conferencing experience.
The network uses the existing commercial telecommunications infrastructure available from Verizon to connect sites to a central hub called a “bridge.” The bridge, located at the University of New Hampshire in Durham, provides both point-to-point and multi-point, full-motion interactive video conferencing.
In addition, the network provides access to broadband at the rate of 1.5 mbps that allows for simultaneous video conferencing and high-speed (384 kbps or 512 kbps) Internet access. It also provides access to resources outside New Hampshire through a gateway that supports both dial-in ISDN and IP access, as well as access to Internet2.
Network partners formed the Granite State Distance Learning Network (GSDLN), a public/private partnership dedicated to developing and implementing affordable, high-speed telecommunications capacity. The GSDLN vision seeks to bring interactive video networking and Internet access to every New Hampshire community. The primary goal is to deliver distance learning professional development, community-based video conferencing and high-speed access to the Internet across the state. GSDLN partners include K-12 schools, post secondary institutions, non-profits, medical centers, and other local, regional and state agencies. GSDLN is literally a window to the world, making available a wide range of educational opportunities to citizens of all ages in communities throughout New Hampshire.
Positioning Statement
UNH Cooperative Extension video conferencing systems and offices equipped with high speed Internet connections will change the way people communicate,
conduct business and how they get and remain informed. The positioning statement reflects these issues and the fact that our offices will now be connected to the world community in a whole new way. Possible statements include:
o UNH Cooperative Extension Video Conferencing: Connecting Sullivan County to UNH, the State, Region and World.
o UNH Cooperative Extension Video Conferencing: Putting the Technology Revolution at Your Command.
o UNH Cooperative Extension Video Conferencing: The Gateway to the 21st Century Without the Hassle of Travel.
o UNH Cooperative Extension Video Conferencing: Making meetings happen when you're miles away.
o UNH Cooperative Extension Video Conferencing: Technology Working for You.
Market Segmentation
The UNH Cooperative Extension video conferencing systems will be introduced to some clientele face-to-face while other clientele will learn about the technology and services through the mail, print, email, or web. Pairing the right marketing approach with correct target market will be important. The larger the target market, the more impersonal the marketing approach (direct mail, print advertisement, electronic media, etc.). The smaller the target market, the more personal the marketing approach (face-to-face meetings, personal phone calls, etc.).
Product/Service Philosophy
The product/service philosophy must reflect the general positioning of being "hassle free." Cutting-edge technology is useless if users perceive that it’s too difficult to use. All the product and service lines rely heavily on the technology. As a result, it will be important to maintain a hassle-free environment. This will be accomplished by having technical support available during business hours, training staff and clientele in the use of the equipment and having step-by-step “how to” information sheets available for users.
One reason many businesses and professionals stick with traditional forms of communication is that they don't feel they have the time to learn how to use new tools. It is common to see a highly trained professional using an old word processor or spread sheet, because they don't feel they have time to learn a new piece of software, even though they acknowledge that it is more efficient. This has aptly been described as "too busy
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fighting the fires to turn around and turn the gas off..." By having a service philosophy that focuses on "hassle-free" all decisions on how to deliver the product must meet this litmus test. This allows new users the choice of selecting video conferencing with the confidence there will be a very small learning curve. The perception must be that using the video conferencing service is as easy to use as making a conference call. The user makes an appointment for a video conference, shows up, conducts their meeting and never once has to worry about the technology.
Marketing and Promotion
The primary method of marketing the video conferencing service will be face-to-face approaches between UNH Cooperative Extension staff and potential users. The initial meeting should not focus on the services available through video conferencing but instead attempt to draw out the communication obstacles prospects are experiencing. Some of these meetings may be impromptu or as part of another meeting when communications issues arise.
Once obstacles are identified, staff will attempt to identify how video conferencing might address these needs and if appropriate, invite the potential user(s) to a video conference demonstration. Because we are recommending this type of approach, video conference demonstrations will be more important than traditional pPotential new users may also elect to participate, as an observer, by attending an already scheduled video conference.
rinted and electronic marketing materials.
A secondary marketing approach will include direct mail to area educational institutions, non-profit groups, government departments, etc., to reach a broader audience than can be reached in personal meetings. An introductory brochure has been developed which outlines the benefits of using this type of technology, site locations and contact information.
A third approach will include advertising local programs delivered by video conference technology through newspapers, newsletters, local cable television, radio, web and other traditional Cooperative Extension methods of advertising programs. Participants, having attended a successful distance-delivered program, will help spread the word of their positive experiences to colleagues and friends.
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Pricing Model
1. NO GSDLN Site Fee – for Consortium Members (8:00am – 5:00pm weekdays) Currently members of the GSDLN Consortium are working under the understanding that we will not charge each other for use of our sites during normal working hours. Example: If Extension wants to use the NCEF site in Gorham, so staff can attend a meeting without having to drive 2 ½ hours to Durham, NCEF will let us use its site between 8am – 5pm at no cost. Current Policy: No costs for consortium members during normal working hours.
2. GSDLN Site Fee – for Consortium Members (weekends and after hours) To facilitate GSDLN Consortium meetings, conferences, and workshops during weekends and after hours, members realize it will be necessary to charge a fee to reimburse the staff necessary for opening/closing the building and turning on/off the equipment. Example: NCEF wants to use our Brentwood site to hold a meeting on Tuesday evening from 6:00pm – 8:00pm. Hence, we would need a staff person to open the building at 6:00pm, turn on the PictureTel (Ptel) system, show users how to use the mute button, turn off the system at 8:00pm and lock the building. Current Policy: Charge Consortium members $25 per hour to unlock/lock the building and turn on/off the Ptel system. Staff member is paid $25 per hour for time and effort.
3. GSDLN Site Fee – for Non-Consortium Members Currently, all GSDLN consortium members use the network only for non-profit educational programs, workshops, meetings and events. The Governance and Finance Committee is looking into establishing uniform fees for use of the network by non-member organizations. Example: The Red Cross wants to use our Boscawen site, NCEF’s site in Gorham, and NHPTV’s site to hold a CPR training class on Saturday morning from 9:00 to 11:00am. Current Policy: Each organization charge $50 per hour to cover network operating costs (@$25 per hour) and for a person (@$25 per hour) to unlock/lock the building and turn on/off the Ptel system.
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Customer Service Values
Repeat users and word of mouth advertising are important to the success of the video conferencing component of UNH Cooperative Extension sites. Each new user of the video conferencing service must be viewed as a repeat customer that can be lost if they have a poor experience. Staff trained in the use of the video conferencing equipment will provide a comfortable level of support for the new user. In addition, the new user will be encouraged to arrive at their site at least ½ hour before the meeting begins to receive a brief hands-on orientation on how the system works.
Market Research/Evaluation
Market research will be collected in three forms. Data will come from UNHCE staff, County Office Administrators, and the Assistant Director, County Operations, regarding what aspects of the video conferencing service are meeting or exceeding customers' expectations and what gaps need to be filled in the service. The second form of market research will take the form of phone and mail surveys of past customers. The third form of market research will be a compilation of customer comment cards and program evaluations distributed following meetings and workshops to assess participants’ reactions to the technology.
Recommendations
While the goal of most traditional marketing is simply to generate interest in a product or service, the marketing of this video conferencing service is different. Rather than focusing solely on the generation of interest in the video conferencing service, staff will center conversations and/or consultations on assessing the communication needs of existing and potential clientele. In line with most all Extension initiatives “to help clientele help themselves,” this approach will assist new users in seeing the benefits of the technology and encourage them to give it a try.
In addition, staff will use video conferencing technology to deliver and market existing Extension programs to clientele. Using this model, new video conference participants would become video conference system usetechnology to help them in their own work, professional development and/or training.
rs and seek ways for this new
This marketing plan needs to be implemented in conjunction with Cooperative Extension’s Master Strategic Plan, Communications/Technology Strategic Plan, Extension Marketing Plan and other appropriate UNH Marketing Plans. In addition, this plan needs to be modified as needed to ensure it remains up-to-date and relevant.
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Distribution of the video conferencing introductory brochure to new users during face-to-face meetings will generate one pool of prospects. Other prospects will be generated through other techniques outlined in this marketing plan (direct mail, print and electronic media).
Given the nature of marketing this service, attention should focus on: 1) interpersonal approaches; 2) collateral materials; and 3) media.
UNH Cooperative Extension video conferencing sites will be the primary provider of video conferencing services in the state for a variety of groups including K-12 educators and administrators, college/university faculty and staff, non-profit organizations, local and state government agencies, departments, and more.
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Marketing Plan – Appendix A
Introduction
The Granite State Distance Learning Network is a public/private partnership dedicated to developing and implementing affordable, high-speed telecommunications capacity. The vision seeks to bring interactive video networking and Internet access to every New Hampshire community. The primary goal is to deliver distance learning professional development, community-based video conferencing and high-speed access to the Internet across the state. GSDLN partners include K-12 schools, post secondary institutions, non-profits, medical centers, and other local, regional and state agencies. The GSDLN is literally a window to the world, making available a wide range of educational opportunities to citizens of all ages in communities throughout New Hampshire.
Characteristics of GSDLN
Open Architecture Multi-point Network • Uses existing commercial telecommunications infrastructure
available from Verizon to connect New Hampshire sites to a central hub.
• Provides both point-to-point and multi-point, full-motion interactive video conferencing through a state-of-the-art video-bridge located at the University of New Hampshire in Durham.
• Provides the ability to have simultaneous multi-point conferences. • All technology adheres to recognized industry standards.
Global High-speed Access • Provides access to broadband at the rate of 1.5 mbps that allows
for simultaneous video conferencing and high-speed (384 kbps or 512 kbps) Internet access.
• Provides access to resources outside GSDLN, within New Hampshire and beyond, through a gateway that supports both dial-in ISDN and IP access, as well as access to Internet2.
Technical Support
• Provides network and end-user technical support through a
contract-for-service with the University of New Hampshire.
Governance • A membership organization that respects local control so that each
member has control over their site, including technology and content.
• Each member has a voice since all decisions that affect the organization, such as rates, infrastructure and governance, are by vote of the members.
GSDLN Coordinating committee
Chairperson: David T. Foote Director, Information Technology and Distance Education University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension Phone: 603.862.1498 Email: [email protected]
Vice Chairperson: Philip Girard SupportNet Project Coordinator Crotched Mountain Foundation Phone: 603.547.3311 x251 Email: [email protected]
Secretary: Matt Treamer Distance Learning Coordinator North Country Education Foundation Phone: 603.466.5437 Email: [email protected]
Governance and Finance Sub-Committee Chair: Chris Collman Program Coordinator The Gregg Public Safety Academy Phone: 603.444.9889 Email: [email protected]
Programs and Services Sub-Committee Chair: Regan Pride Distance Learning Coordinator White Mountains SAU 35 Phone: 603.444.3925 Email: [email protected]
Technology Sub-Committee Chair: Roy Bailey Technology Coordinator
Bow School District Phone: 603.228.2210 x320 Email: [email protected]
GSDLN Infrastructure Network Architecture
• GSDLN is part of the University System of New Hampshire’s Wide
Area Network (WAN), including the video-bridge, a gateway and high-speed access to the Internet.
Network Connectivity
• GSDLN sites are connected to the network using Verizon ATM
circuits that are available in every part of the state at a fixed rate regardless of location.
• Access to dial-in ISDN and IP connectivity is through the UNH gateway.
• Access to satellite uplink and downlink capabilities is available through New Hampshire Public Television to import and export programming.
Network Management
• The University of New Hampshire’s Computing and Information
Services provides management of the network and its components.
Cost Structure Through an agreed upon formula for cost sharing, the burden of paying for the operation of the network is divided among all of the members. There are two primary components that impact on the costs for the GSDLN: one-time end-user capital costs, and network operations and management services provided by the University of New Hampshire.
The GSDLN consortium is comprised of 33 members located throughout the state of New Hampshire. Members include:
K-12 Public Schools Colebrook Colebrook Academy Woodsville Woodsville High School Whitefield White Mountain Regional High School Littleton Littleton High School Lisbon Lisbon Regional High School Bethlehem Profile Senior High School Lincoln Lin-Wood High School New London Kearsarge Regional High School Londonderry Londonderry High School Penacook Merrimack Valley High School Bow Bow High School Nashua Elm Street Junior High School
Postsecondary Institutions Durham University of New Hampshire Manchester UNH Manchester Concord College of Life Long Learning Keene Keene State College Plymouth Plymouth State College Hanover Dartmouth College Littleton New Hampshire Community Technical College
University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension Offices
North Haverhill Grafton County Newport Sullivan County Laconia Belknap County Boscawen Merrimack County Brentwood Rockingham County Durham Strafford County
State Agencies
Concord New Hampshire Department of Transportation Concord New Hampshire Fire Academy Concord New Hampshire Police Standards/Training Council
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Others
Gorham North Country Education Foundation Littleton Northern NH Area Health Education Center Littleton Gregg Public Safety Academy Lisbon New England Electric Wire Bedford Southeastern Regional Education Service Center Greenfield Crotched Mountain Foundation Durham New Hampshire Public Television
Sites Pending (Winter 03 - 04)
Berlin New Hampshire Community Technical College Claremont New Hampshire Community Technical College Concord New Hampshire Community Technical College Laconia New Hampshire Community Technical College Manchester New Hampshire Community Technical College Nashua New Hampshire Community Technical College Portsmouth New Hampshire Community Technical College Stratham New Hampshire Community Technical College
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Marketing Plan - Appendix B
Infrastructure
Governance • A membership organization that respects local control so that each
member has control over their site, including technology and content.
• Each member has a voice since all decisions that affect the organization, such as rates, infrastructure and governance, are by vote of the members.
available from Verizon to connect New Hampshire sites to a central hub.
• Provides both point-to-point and multi-point, full-motion interactive video conferencing through a state-of-the-art video-bridge located at the University of New Hampshire in Durham.
• Provides the ability to have simultaneous multi-point conferences. • All technology adheres to recognized industry standards.
Global High-speed Access • Provides to access to broadband at the rate of 1.5 mbps that allows
for simultaneous video conferencing and high-speed (384 kbps or 512 kbps) Internet access.
• Provides access to resources outside GSDLN, within New Hampshire and beyond, through a gateway that supports both dial-in ISDN and IP access, as well as access to Internet2.
Technical Support
• Provides network and end-user technical support through a
contract-for-service with the University of New Hampshire.
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GSDLN Infrastructure (cont.) Network Architecture
• GSDLN is part of the University System of New Hampshire’s Wide
Area Network (WAN), including the video-bridge, a gateway and high-speed access to the Internet.
Network Connectivity
• GSDLN sites are connected to the network using Verizon ATM
circuits that are available in every part of the state at a fixed rate regardless of location.
• Access to dial-in ISDN and IP connectivity is through the UNH gateway.
• Access to satellite uplink and downlink capabilities is available through New Hampshire Public Television to import and export programming.
Network Management
• The University of New Hampshire’s Computing and Information
Services provides management of the network and its components.
Cost Structure Through an agreed upon formula for cost sharing, the burden of paying for the operation of the network is divided among all of the members. There are two primary components that impact on the costs for the GSDLN: one-time end-user capital costs, and network operations and management services provided by the University of New Hampshire.
• One-time End-user Capital
o Basic Video conferencing System $10,000 - 18,000 o Telecommunications Equipment $ 6,000 - 12,000 o Optional Equipment $ 5,000 - 35,000 o GSDLN membership fee $ 5,000
• Network Operations and Management Fees
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University of New Hampshire GSDLN Network Operations and Management Fees
Annual Costs
Per Site Monthly Charge
Management & Operations Fees
Business Operations & Administration: $15,754 $30 • Basic E-rate assistance • Annual contract management (includes vendor negotiations) • Work order process – request for services • Billing inquiries • Annual pricing analysis • Participation on GSDLN Consortium (operational/billing issues)
Network Management: $85,333 $162 • Onsite management of USNH WAN • Onsite network and video bridge troubleshooting - (does not include
member’s videoconferencing units)
• Domain name hosting • ATM circuit management • Network management equipment maintenance • Participation on GSDLN Consortium (technical issues)
Conference Scheduling: $17,788 $34 • Serves as contact for scheduling video bridge
After Hours Network Management: Monday - Friday 5 PM–9 PM $37,929 $72 • Onsite management of USNH WAN • Onsite network and video bridge troubleshooting (does not include
• Video Bridge (Capital recovery; purchased 7/2001 w/ UNH Loan) $116,000 $220 • Video Bridge Annual Maintenance $23,000 $44
Total Video Bridge Fee $264
ATM Circuit Fee – Per Site
• Pass through of Verizon charges N/A $656 ATM Circuit Fee – Per Site N/A $656
Data Fee – Per Site Internet Access Charge
• 384K bandwidth $200 • 512K bandwidth $267
Total Annual/Monthly Charge w/ 384K Data: Per Site $17,412 $1,451
Total Annual/Monthly Charge w/ 512K Data: Per Site $18,206 $1,518
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GSDLN Site Map
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Marketing Plan - Appendix C
Programs
Sample Content Available Over GSDLN • Credit courses for high school and post-secondary students • Continuing education certificate & non-certificate programs • Professional development programs for K-12 educators • Training for health care providers, police, fire and EMTs • Educational programs for business and industry • Multi-site administrative meetings K – 12 Professional Development and Student Programs – The following chart is a sampling of programs offered during the 2002 – 2003 school year:
Event Purpose # In
Series # Of Sites
# Of Participants
Paraprofessional Series
Professional Training for Para-professionals
6 4 72
Autism Series Professional Training for Teachers
6 4 44
Teach North Math Class
Masters Math Course
14 1 11
NH Wild Series Professional Staff Development for Teachers
8 4 Varies
NHSTE Super Thursdays
Technology Training for Teachers
5 3 Varies
NH Association of Special Education Administrators
Meetings for NHASEA are video cast to NCEF so members may attend meetings
2 1 Varies
SPED Meeting SPED meeting with specialists
1 1 Varies
Diplomats in the Classroom
Encourage student interest
5 4 Varies
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in World Affairs Senator Sununu Talk to students
about war in Afghanistan
1 3 88
Read Across America
Encouraging students to read
3 10 575 Students
20 Teachers The North Country Education Foundation has developed a consortium of schools that will be offering high school courses over GSDLN in the 2003 – 2004 school year.
Class Semester Originating School
Introduction to Aviation
Fall & Spring
Lin-Wood
AP Calculus Fall & Spring
Lin-Wood
AP Statistics Fall & Spring
Colebrook
Fundamentals of Music
Fall & Spring
Lisbon
Spanish III Spanish IV
Fall & Spring
Woodsville
University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension Distance Education Programs
• National Programs, Conferences and Meetings o "The Impact of Entertainment Media on Children and Families"
– four-part satellite series o National Satellite Broadcast – “Bio-Terrorism conference” o National HIPAA Challenge - Satellite conference o National Institute of Corrections – “Jail Inmates with Mental
Illness” national broadcast o “Gentle Logging” national satellite conference o USDA grant proposal development o Plant Sciences Research Meeting - University of Maryland o Distance Education Policy Conference – UNHCE, NHDOE,
Oregon State University o Blue Cross for Federal Employees conference o International Agriculture Exchange Project meeting with UNH
and Univ. of Minnesota o “Achieving Outcomes…” – National Community Anti-Drug
Program workshop o “Building Partnerships between Gateway Communities” –
National Conservation Service training o National LEAP program meeting / grantsmanship training
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University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension Distance Education Programs (cont.)
• State Outreach Programs, Conferences and Workshops o “Food Safety ” statewide workshop o “Building Partnerships between Gateway Communities” – White
Mtn. National Forest staff training o “Kids Count” – statewide training session o “Marketing on a shoestring” training for Entrepreneurs –
MicroCredit New Hampshire o NHDOE - Apple Computer Satellite Conference o New Hampshire Audubon – Information Technology and Distance
Education development meeting o Granite State Distance Learning Network monthly meetings o New Hampshire ArcView Users Group monthly meetings o Ray Burton (Executive Councilor) – Connecticut River Basin
Commissioner meetings o UNH Soils Analysis program planning/ development meetings o UNH “Distance Education Tools” Workshop o “How to Best Display Health Data” – UNH Health Policy Institute
workshop o UNHCE “Logic Model” training o UNHCE Plant Diagnosis workshop o UNHCE statewide training session for Landscapers o UNHCE Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Training
• UNHCE Programs, Conferences and Meetings- (UNHCE has used the GSDLN network to facilitate over 150 programs, conferences and meetings in the past few months) o Extension STST Project Strategy Meetings o Reorganization Structure Committee (CRAS) Meetings o Statewide Conference Planning Team meetings o 4-H Program Planning meetings o UNH Deans Council meetings o Extension Management Team meetings o Program Planning/Evaluation Team meetings o County to County educator planning meetings o Family and Youth Advisory Committee conference o Water Quality Program planning meeting o 4-H Foundation meeting – Investments and Retirement o In-service Training - Social Marketing Your Route to Results o Extension Evaluation Team meetings o State Strengthening Project site management team retreat o Marketing Extension Educator Council meetings o Extension Logic Model Planning conference o Blue Ribbon 4-H Software training o Extension Program Development and Evaluation team meetings
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o Volunteer Development conference o Extension Educator Training - Nutrition Connections o Agriculture Research Project planning meeting o UNH Soils Testing Lab software development team meetings o Associate Director Search Committee interviews with candidates
located across the country
Gregg Public Safety Academy – Littleton
Funded by a series of grants from the U.S. Department of Justice, the Academy has focused on providing repeatable, successful training experiences in response to identified community needs. Using the resources of GSDLN has allowed the Academy to deliver economical training at the regional training center.
• Police Officer Training - Since August 2002, the Gregg Public Safety
Academy has been used as a regional training and meeting facility an average of 58 hours a month. The principle project was the “Part Time Officer's” school involving 80 hours of interactive video training originating from the New Hampshire Police Training and Standards Council in Concord.
• Community-based Activities – The facility has been used by state, municipal and federal agencies, including: local police departments, Small Business Development Centers, schools, the New Hampshire Fire Academy, the New Hampshire Department of Transportation, the New Hampshire Department of Resources and Economic Development, New Hampshire Administrative Services, the Attorney General’s Office, the Liquor Commission, U.S. Department of Justice, New Hampshire Department of Safety Emergency Management Services, New Hampshire Community Technical College System. In addition, it has served regional businesses and non-profits such as New England Wire, North Country Health Consortium members, Dartmouth College and the North Country Council.
New Hampshire Historical Society
Striking a Balance between Growth and Preservation in New Hampshire - The New Hampshire Historical Society and the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests discuss the history and the future of the state's efforts to preserve its natural and cultural heritage while accommodating growth. Through a partnership with New Hampshire Public Television’s Distance Learning Network, presenters and participants will take part in a live, linked discussion. This discussion will use Claiming the Land: Our Past, Our Future, Our Choice, a joint exhibition of NHHS and SPNHF, as a point of departure to explore the fascinating history and complex contemporary issues surrounding how the state’s land and water resources are used.
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New Hampshire Public Television – NHPTV has been active in offering professional development programs using the resources of GSDLN. They include:
• Education Connection – Hands-on workshops designed to help
teachers to effectively integrate the use of technology into their instructional programs. They are “content specific” designed to align with the New Hampshire curriculum frameworks and are not platform dependent. The following is a sample of the workshop offerings:
o Internet Search Strategies – Learn to quickly find what you are
looking for on the Internet, including an overview of the major search engines and directories.
o Educator's Guide to the Internet - Discover effective ways to
integrate the Internet into your teaching, including browser tips, searching and great web sites for both you and your students.
o PowerPoint Made Easy - Learn to create PowerPoint
presentations, including creating, editing, and formatting slides; adding clipart and pictures; and creating charts and graphs.
o Earth Science on the Web - Learn to teach Earth Science in the
classroom using technology, including an overview of websites as well as strategies for using the sites in the classroom.
o Life Science on the Web - Learn to teach Life Science in the
classroom using technology, including an overview of websites as well as strategies for using them in the classroom.
o Children's and Young Adult Literature on the Internet - Learn
how to use the Internet in your language arts class by exploring great literature sites and discover web-based activities that will help your students explore literature.
• TeacherLine - Using the latest Internet and video technology,
TeacherLine provides online learning opportunities, state and local certificate programs, and access to exemplary resources.
• JASON XIV: From Shore to Sea - Explore the terrestrial and marine
ecosystems that extend from California's coast to the Channel Islands Marine Sanctuary to learn how such systems affect life on our planet.
• Wild New Hampshire - A monthly series of workshops presented by
the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department that explores the natural environment in New Hampshire. The workshops are designed for the K-12 educator.
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• Intel Teach to the Future – A five-day “train the trainer” program to provide teachers with the skills to train other teachers in effective methods of integrate technology into their instructional programs.
Expansion Capabilities
The design of GSDLN allows for expansion to accommodate additional users. There is no technical limitation to the number of sites that can be connected. The key component is the capacity of the video bridge that can be incrementally expanded as new users join the consortium. Currently the bridge supports 42 direct connects, two ISDN calls and 12 IP connections. There are no technical limitations to site location since Verizon’s ATM is available throughout the New Hampshire.
Lin-Wood High School (Lincoln) Distance Learning Projects
Christa McAuliffe Conference
The Christa McAuliffe Conference was held on Wed &Thursday, Dec. 4th& 5th at the Windham Room at the Sheraton Hotel in Nashua. There was the main site in Nashua and four far end sites that participated. Lin-Wood was one of the four far end sites and our job was to demonstrate how a far end works with the use of the Document camera. Other sites demonstrated the Smart Board, Internet inclusion, etc. Regan Pride, Littleton, and I worked as a team. As Site #4, Lin-Wood discussed Curriculum Sharing-AP classes, and accessing online courses. The points for consideration: Tuition, teacher contract, salaries, student responsibility, teacher and student training with online delivery and receiving instruction, monitoring & using the document reader. Regan Pride presented example of events: Upcoming Feb. event-Black history month-inventions how it evolved and how it is advertised to school districts. It went well, as the audiences in Nashua both days were large and interested.
SATs
Regan Pride, Littleton, offered a SAT Prep course that would last 5 weeks. (Two afternoons weekly and 2 Saturdays.) We advertised it throughout the high school but there were no takers. We had some interest but nobody was willing to make the commitment. The cost was to be $100 per student. I think that this was the problem but I understand that the instructors and materials have to be paid for. A suggestion from our Guidance department would be to run this exact same course again in the fall, starting as early in September as possible. If the instructors were willing, the feeling is that all Saturday sessions (no weekdays because of soccer, football, volleyball, driver ed., etc.) might have fewer conflicts.
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Read Across America
The Read Across America even went very well this year. Lin-Wood participated during the reading sessions. The Opening event was on March 3rd, Flyer attached. The participating schools read to each other on Tuesday and Wednesday, March 4th and 5th. Lin-Wood’s 9th graders read to Londonderry 9th graders on Wednesday, March 5th for 1 hour and a half. Londonderry created an article with pictures for the local papers and is sending us a copy to post.
2003/2004 Distance Learning Courses
The GSDLN and NCEF have been meeting almost weekly and have been working very hard to advertise needed courses as well as course offerings. This is a continuing effort and all the Guidance Counselors, principals; DL coordinators are working to fill these courses as well as creating bell schedules to satisfy all schools.
NH Wildlife
We have been running a New Hampshire Wildlife series. It is held once a month on Thursday afternoon from 4:00 to 5:30, and we have two participants. I have attached the flyer to explain exactly what has been covered.
War Games
Roy Bailey, Bow, has been offering a series called “Diplomats in the Classroom”. We have been participating in this. The next Diplomats in the Classroom Program has been set for March 19th from 9:50 to 11:00. The speaker will be Bob Gile from Concord and the topic will be “War Games”. This is the second in the series and will be held in Connie Ward’s room. Both Connie and Georgian Boyd have taken part in this series.
Course Offerings to Teachers This Summer
Steve Dutilly sent out a message offering a Microsoft Office 2000 overview to all the teachers at Lin-Wood. This is to try to build interest for a Summer School course for the teachers that Connie and I will teach. The first overview is this Wednesday afternoon after school 2:30 to 4:00, to the Elementary school teachers. The next one is for the Middle and High school teachers and will be held in April. Connie Ward and I are presenting an overview of Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access. We are designing these overviews for the “Need to Know” for the teachers and we hope that they will want to educate themselves to help their students in projects next year that will require the knowledge of Microsoft Office.
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Student-to-Student Topics
After some brief correspondence with participating schools, the Distance Learning Bridge would be open noon to 1pm to all interested schools every day for at least two weeks. If this experiment works out, other time slots or longer periods of time will be offered. I could monitor this period each day to ensure that appropriate topics are discussed, and that the Distance Learning equipment is set up and used properly.
Topics that could be discussed on a scheduled basis:
• Projects or presentations (English, Social Studies, Science) • Book Reports • Math problems • Sports • Community Service • Social Events (Exchanging ideas on themes, etc.) • Student Council activities
Once the ball gets rolling, students could plan ahead of time with other schools to discuss certain topics that are common to the schools and the students.
We feel that if we allow students to become more involved with the Distance Learning equipment and its capabilities, they will take the ball and come up with fresh ideas. The equipment will then become more functional.
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Appendix D – Sample of GSDLN Programming Schedule Monday, March 3, 2003
Mar 3 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Read Across America Week Opening Event Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network Posted by: Kathleen Malsbenden
Details: Rebecca Rule will kick off Read Across America by addressing students throughout the state via teleconferencing. She will speak live from Merrimack Valley High School to all participating GSDLN sites. SCHEDULE: Opening Celebration 10:30: Welcome Kathy Malsbenden~Program Chair, Granite State Distance Learning Network Karen McDonough~President, NEA-New Hampshire 10:35-10:55 Featured Reader Joseph W. McQuaid~President and Publisher, The Union Leader 10:55-11:15 Read Across America Celebrity Reader Rebecca Rule~New Hampshire author and humorist 11:15: Closing
Mar 4 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Read Across America Reading Exchanges Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network Posted by: Kathleen Malsbenden
Details: Students from across the state will partner with classes from each other via GSDLN to read and exchange literary ideas during one-hour segments. NEA sponsors this event. GSDLN and NEA-NH are hosting this national event in New Hampshire in order to give all students in the state the opportunity to experience meeting each other through teleconferencing.
Mar 12 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Assistive Technology Awareness Day Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network Posted by: David Foote
Details: Assistive Technology Awareness Day Provided by Crotched Mountain’s Assistive Technology Department -9:00 to 10:00 Controlling My World with Voice, Large Button, and Switches Description: A demonstration of a variety of simple and complex environmental controls from SICARE to large button television remotes. -10:15 to 10:45 Workin’ at the Carwash Description: A quick simple method for cleaning and checking manual wheelchairs put to the music of Ross Royce’s classic 70’s song. -11:00 to 12:00 IntelliTools Bowling Description: Come and bowl a game with in the IntelliKeys and Switch. Great All-American fun for one and all. -1:00 to 2:00 How many ways can you drive a wheelchair? Description: Demonstrations of a variety of wheelchairs drive systems. - 2:15 to 2:45 AlphaSmart Classroom Description: Demonstration of the AlphaSmart 3000 and two custom applet software programs. - 3:00 to 4:00 Thematically Speaking Description: A demonstration of IntelliTools Second Generation Classroom Suite and using it to teach via a thematic unit. The unit is entitled “Careers”.
a.m. Diplomats in the Classroom: War Games Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network Posted by: Roy Bailey
Details: Bob Gile from Concord will present and answer question on "War Games: How they are used to provide choices concerning U.S. national security."
Audience: All interested
GSDLN Sites: Bow High School, others interested contact Roy Bailey
Thursday, March 20, 2003
Mar 20 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Part 1: Building a Student-Designed Multimedia Project Using PowerPoint (2nd Session-April 3, 2003) Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network Posted by: Kathleen Malsbenden
Details: During this workshop participants will build an example of a student-designed multimedia project by learning first to ask the right questions and frame the ideas, and then build their PowerPoint skills. Finally there will learn to assess student knowledge. These two sessions will build PowerPoint skills from beginning to more advanced.
Audience: Teachers / Educators
GSDLN sites: SERESC (host), Merrimack Valley, Woodsville, Gorham
Mar 20 4 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Wildlife-borne Human DiseasesCalendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network Posted by: David Foote
URL: http://www.gsdln.org/nhwildseries.pdf
Details: Wildlife-borne Human Diseases, Dr. Jose Montero, N.H. Dept. of Health and Human Services; 4:00pm - 5:30pm Tired of driving all over the state for professional development? Join educators to learn about the habitats and wildlife of New Hampshire. This program is the first in a series of 8 programs, the NH Fish and Game's Wild New Hampshire series, to be conducted over the GSDLN network.
Audience: Teachers / Educators
GSDLN Sites: NH Public TV, Durham; Bow High School, Bow; North Country Education Foundation, Gorham; Crotched Mountain, Greenfield
Mar 20 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Marketing On A Shoestring Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network Posted by: David Foote
Details: Marketing On A Shoestring Workshop This workshop, presented by Traci Bisson, co-owner of Bisson Barcelona, will cover inexpensive, fundamental and successful methods of marketing your business. From Durham, NH, this pilot workshop will be broadcast to the following locations around the State.
This is a joint program of MicroCredit-NH and Granite State Distance Learning Network. To Register: Call Candace Whittemore at (603) 224-2069 or (800) 769-3482 Cost: $5.00 for members, $10.00 for non-members
Audience: Small Business Owners, Entrepreneurs
GSDLN Sites: New England Electric Wire, 130 North Main St., Lisbon Crotched Mountain Foundation, One Verney Dr., Greenfield; SERESC, Professional Development Center, 29 Commerce Dr., Bedford; UNH Cooperative Extension, Taylor Hall, 59 College Rd., Durham
Thursday, March 27, 2003
Mar 27 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
GSDLN Monthly Meeting Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network Posted by: David Foote
Details: GSDLN Monthly Meeting, Please contact David Foote if you would like to be added to the list of sites participating.
Housing, History, and Haystacks Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network Posted by: June Kramarczyk
Details: Striking a Balance between Growth and Preservation in New Hampshire - The New Hampshire Historical Society and the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests will discuss the history and the future of the state's efforts to preserve its natural and cultural heritage while accommodating growth. Through a partnership with New Hampshire Public Television’s Distance Learning Network, presenters and participants will take part in a live, linked discussion. This discussion will use Claiming the Land: Our Past, Our Future, Our Choice, a joint exhibition of NHHS and SPNHF, as a point of departure to explore the fascinating history and complex contemporary issues surrounding how the state’s land and water resources are used. To R.S.V.P. or for more information, contact Mark Foynes at the New Hampshire Historical Society, 603/856-0611 or [email protected]. Professional credit available for New Hampshire foresters. Major funding for Claiming the Land: Our Past, Our Future, Our Choice was provided by Jefferson Pilot Financial
Audience: All interested
GSDLN Sites: Bow High School, Nashua Junior High School
Thursday, April 3, 2003
Apr 3 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Part 2: Building a Student-Designed Multimedia Project
Using PowerPoint. Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network Posted by: Kathleen Malsbenden
Details: During this workshop participants will build an example of a student-designed multimedia project by learning first to ask the right questions and frame the ideas, then build their PowerPoint skills. Finally there will learn to assess student knowledge. These two sessions will build PowerPoint skills from beginning to more advanced.
GDSLN sites: SERESC (host), Merrimack Valley, Woodsville, NCEF Gorham
Thursday, April 17, 2003
Apr 17 4 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Amphibian Breeding StrategiesCalendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network Posted by: David Foote
URL: http://www.gsdln.org/nhwildseries.pdf
Details: Amphibian Breeding Strategies, Dr. Kim Babbitt, University of New Hampshire; 4:00pm - 5:30pm; Tired of driving all over the state for professional development? Join educators to learn about the habitats and wildlife of New Hampshire. This program is the first in a series of 8 programs, the NH Fish and Game's Wild New Hampshire series, to be conducted over the GSDLN network.
Audience: Teachers / Educators
GSDLN Sites: NH Public TV, Durham; Bow High School, Bow; North Country Education Foundation, Gorham; Crotched Mountain, Greenfield
