Here's how it would work from the perspective of the user. Teachers At the classroom computer, or any computer connected to the Internet, teachers use secure passwords to access the system to calculate student grades, post classroom newsletters, record daily attendance, match lesson plans to state or district standards, and find lessons or software applications. Administrators Administrators can access a variety of databases on the ASP server, including standardized test scores, attendance data, discipline records, budget, food service, student enrollment systems, and class scheduling applications. ASPs have the potential to provide resources and libraries that may not be available otherwise. Parents Parents can check up on student grades and see homework assignments.
Some ASPs offer a phone link for parents without Web access.
Schools Outsourcing helps to alleviate staffing problems, as the ASP is responsible for software and server upgrades and technical support. Schools can estimate the total cost of ownership of technology more accurately because ASPs offer fixed subscription rates based on numbers of users. Send a letter to the Editor in response to this article.