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See also...
The Planner is just a tool
As Seymour Papert says, "Technology doesn't work! It doesn't do anything. People do!"
History of the Planner
This Planner has been co-constructed by the staff members of numerous schools and clusters over several years. Its development has been guided by users' insights into their everyday needs and experiences. All contributors have been focused on working to ensure the success and well-being of students and staff both now and in the future.
Using a database
The Planner is a Microsoft Access database. You will need Access installed on any computer on which you will use the Planner.
A database is just a set of labeled containers for storing data as text, that is numbers and letters. It also has some automated devices for managing, selecting, organizing and presenting bits and pieces of the data as 'information' (organized data).
Databases are helpful, but only people can think and construct the knowledge required to make sense of and respond to situations and circumstances (more on knowledge). Construction of knowledge, actions and arrangements usually occurs best in conversations between those involved: stakeholders and those with useful experience and information.
As a result the database has 'minimal hard-wiring' and users can choose how and what data they will collect to inform their actions. In a sense the design of the database underpinning the Planner assumes a constructivist methodology.
What really counts is extent to which the Planner informs the practices of those who use the software or its products (reports...).
Getting value
The value you get out of using the Planner will depend on how well you match its use to your own school practices, including, consideration of how you will
- Collect data
- Process data so that it informs actions
- Monitor situations to construct knowledge
- Respond to situations by
- planning
- coordinating
- informing
- contacting
- implementing
- … support actions
- Manage associated documentation in order to
- be accountable as professionals
- manage responses over time
These hyperlinks will provide some of the
insights you may need to use the Planner well. This means making it easier to
have success and enjoy well-being for yourself (and those with whom you work).
