1. ONGO-08 K-12 Teaching Application
Abstract
Proposed Approach
Standardized test scores indicate that students need to improve their problem-solving and geography skills. The purpose of this project is to provide software to supplement classroom learning in these areas for 3rd-6th grade students. Mathematical Teaching Software System (MTSS) assists students with problem solving by using problem walkthroughs. Uncle Sam’s America (USA) and Globey’s World (GW) provide visual and factual information about US and world geography. The Software and Support Framework (SASF) team provides support for application development and suite extensibility. These groups combine to form the K-12 Teaching Application Software and Support team.
MTSS (figure 1):
Four-step problem solving algorithm
Generate sample problem sets
Problem creation tool for teachers
GW/USA (figure 2, figure 3):
Geography database to store state and country facts
Interactive games as learning tools
Geography comparison tools
SASF:
Grade book functionality
User registration and login capabilities
Extensible framework for future applications
Figure 1: MTSS Example
Introduction
Figure 2: GW Comparison Page
Figure 3: USA “State That Flag”
Problem Statement
Teachers wish to improve student performance in problem solving and geography.
Solution Approach
Design web-based software to be used as a supplemental teaching device in the areas of mathematical problem solving and US and world geography.
Intended Users and Uses
3rd-6th grade students, teachers, administrators, and parents/guardians will use the software as a supplemental educational tool and as a monitor of student progress.
Operating Environment
Client-Server architecture
Linux-based Apache web server
MySQL database
PHP web applications
Assumptions
Client has access to Internet connection
Students are supervised by teachers or parents/guardians
Limitations
Client Internet connection speeds
Prior computer experience of students
Developers may not have prior experience with PHP or MySQL
Expected End Product
Functional applications that conform to the framework design
User manual
Tools to evaluate student performance
Estimated Resources and Schedule
Personnel Resources (in hours)
Financial Requirements
Project Requirements
Design Objectives
Software is accessible via Internet
Tools to monitor student performance
Provide support documentation
Functional Requirements
Individual logins for all users
Applications assist students in learning problem solving and geography
Extensible framework that allows for additional applications to be incorporated
Design Constraints
Simple design for ease of student use
Multiple platform support
All applications compatible with framework
Measurable Milestones
Team PHP/MySQL training sessions
Defect identification and correction
Release of software to schools
Alpha and beta test activities
Refine MTSS problem solving algorithm
Semester Schedule
Technology Considerations
Coding Language:
ASP
PHP (Chosen)
Defect Tracking Tool:
Pre-existing tool
Create own tool (Chosen)
Database:
MS SQL Server 2000
MySQL (Chosen)
Project Testing
Alpha Testing
Ongo-08 team members and faculty advisors will perform alpha test activities to ensure a basic functionality of the software.
Beta Testing
Select teachers from Ames Community Schools will evaluate the software for usability in the classroom and offer suggestions for future improvements.
Test Tools
New Test Lead position created
Formal test plans for sub-teams
Software defect tracking tool
Product Support
User Manual and online help pages
address for clients to direct support questions
Conclusion
The Ongo-08 senior design team is developing applications to assist teachers in improving their students’ problem solving and geography skills.  The K-12 Teaching Application Support and Software suite provides web applications to teachers and students that supplement classroom learning in the areas of mathematical problem solving and US and world geography. By utilizing the software along with classroom instruction, the students will be better prepared for standardized tests, ultimately resulting in higher test scores.
ONGO-08
Client
Iowa School Districts
Faculty Advisors
Dr. John Lamont
Prof. Ralph Patterson
Dr. Gregory Smith
Ongo-08a (MTSS)
Cameron Travers
Aaron Menz
Amy Joines
Adam Wise
Ongo-08b/c (GW/USA)
Todd Steffen
Jennifer Novak
Justin Brown
Sean Boyle
Ongo-08d (SASF)
Grant Eckels
Erin Boggess
Paul Hartwell
Duc Ho
Nathan Taucher