In our last issue of School Buildings 101, we discussed the electrical needs of schools upgrading their computer systems. In this issue, we address additional technological requirements of schools as they enter a new millennium. From the classroom to the world One of the most obvious advantages to having computers in the classroom is the ability to access the multimedia resources of the Internet.
Data links allow for learning situations beyond the Internet, however.
Classrooms can connect to libraries at universities and larger cities and can even access reference material from the Library of Congress. Teleconferencing via the data links allows schools to offer specialized classes without hiring additional staff. Existing chools seldom have the wiring or cabling conduits needed to support network technologies, requiring the creative resources of an electrical engineer. Telecommunications Central A telecommunications closet is required to facilitate networking, distribution and grounding for data circuits. Because cables and wires have distance limitations, the technology control center must be centrally located.