The evolution of computer-based information technology in a New Jersey school district: A case study.

摘要

This study examined and documented the evolution of the management information systems (MIS) technology in a New Jersey school district from 1980 to 1996. Data collection consisted of documentation, archival records, interviews, direct observation, and physical artifacts. A model of executive information systems (EIS) was used as the conceptual framework of the study.;Interviews, on which there was heaviest reliance, together with the other sources, yielded data on changes in administrative technology by the district, changes in the use of computers and computer-based information by administrators, and the development of information and decision support systems as a function of changes in hardware and software technology. Data were also collected to analyze the relationship between the district's technological initiatives and the New Jersey Technology Plan that was issued to all New Jersey school districts in 1993. Still more data were collected to facilitate analysis of how the management information system (MIS) in the school district compares with a current model of executive information systems (EIS).;Results showed that there were gaps of varying degrees of significance between the expected findings and the actual findings of the study. In the areas of changes in administrative technology, use of administrative technology and in the development of information and decision support systems, the district fell short of expectations. The evidence shows that the momentum which existed at the beginning of the period of the study was slowed significantly as we approached the end of the period. In the area of the relationship between the school district's initiative in information technology and New Jersey Technology Plan (NJTP) of 1993, it was found that the district's actions predated the issuance of the NJTP. It failed, however, to maintain its cutting edge stance as an exceptional school district in information technology, as was the case in the early 1980s. In the area of the conceptual framework, the management information system (MIS) that emerged, after 16 years of technological evolution through infrastructural modifications in the hardware and software platforms, was compared with a seven-element model of an executive information system (EIS). Using Pattern Matching Logic, it was found that the gap between the expected and the actual findings was significantly large. Only four of the seven EIS elements were present, and only four were in use. None of the seven were used for problem solving.;It is not sufficient for executives of school districts to have computers on their desktops with ready access to critical information. Such information must be used with effect at all levels of education in the district. Implementation of a full executive information system (EIS) would give each school district executive, especially the superintendent as chief executive officer, the enabling facility to use available information and to involve all levels in the school district's organization to use it effectively for problem solving.