Edited by Dr. David J. Ayersman, Mary Washington College, and Dr. W. Michael Reed, New York University Incoming editor: Dr. Lynne Schrum, University of Georgia
formerly Journal of Research on Computing in Education

Volume 34 Number 4 Summer 2002

Integrating a Decision Support System into a School: The Effects on Student Functioning
Poria Kalay
Levinsky College of Education
David Chen
Tel Aviv University

Abstract
Information systems have been developed and applied in schools throughout the world, yet there is a lack of professional literature devoted to an examination of the effects of these systems on administrative and other activities in the school. Systematic empirical research on this subject is needed not only for its inherent scientific value, but also to expand the knowledge base in this field, which may facilitate the application of the potential of computerized administration systems in schools, leading to more effective administration and management of schools. This study examined the effect on student functioning of integrating an information system into the school management’s decision-making process in planning the teaching and learning system. The results indicate a significant improvement in student achievement, particularly in difficult subjects such as mathematics and English. The improvement is not only in terms of statistical significance, but also in the dimensions and in a positive change in distribution, with a rise in the achievement and a significant decrease in the number of failures. In addition, the findings indicate reduced mobility of students from one level of study to another and a decline in the drop out rate.

Contributors
Dr. Poria Kalay is a lecturer in the Levinsky College of Education. Her research interests include information technology and integrating decision support systems into management education. Prof. David Chen is dean of the School of Education at Tel Aviv University. His publishing includes research papers concerning the theory of education, information technologies, technology education, and schools of the future.

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Contact
Dr. Poria Kalay
Levinsky College of Education
Tel-Aviv 61481
Israel
Poria@macam.ac.il

Copyright © 2002, ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education). All rights reserved.