Web and Database Application Selection, Development, and Implementation
EdCom works with "Clients" to find or create educational technology-based solutions that are designed to:
- Complement teaching, learning, and/or operational processes.
- Achieve pedagogical or organizational goals.
- Increase efficiency.
- Enhance effectiveness.
EdCom provides expertise on instructional design, technology-based training, multimedia, web and database development, hosting, and server-side configurations. In addition to systems developed in-house, we maintain a variety of interactive web-based tools (discussion forums and polls, calendars, survey and quiz generators, etc.) that can readily be incorporated into instructional or administrative applications for added value.
How are projects requested and prioritized?
Typically EdCom meets with the senior MedEd mangers and the Block / Clerkship directors to discuss Educational Technology needs for their programs. EdCom then meets with the MedEd Associate Deans where projects within each major area (ASA, UGME, GME, CME) are reviewed and prioritized. If individuals within these units or programs have ideas for development or purchase of systems, we encourage them to work through these channels. Since there are always more excellent ideas than resources to realize them, most projects cannot be started immediately. EdCom tries to give requestors a reasonable estimate of when development of their system will begin.
How does the development process work?
Once EdCom begins to work with a Client on selecting or developing an application, the multi-step process is outlined below. At all phases, end user participation is essential.
Step 1 - Assess NeedsEdCom will work with the Client to specify project requirements and identify the key stakeholders that will need to participate in the process. | |
Step 2A - Purchase / LicenseConsider potential commercial applications: EdCom will work closely with the Client to evaluate each potential commercial product.
| Step 2B - DevelopIf no commercial application is available: EdCom will work closely with the client to create the best possible cost-effective solution. EdCom will collaboratively design, develop, test, and debug the new application (that may include the following elements: database, stored procedures, user interface with navigation, web-based data entry, report forms, documentation, etc). During this phase, a working version of the system will be placed on our Development server for the use of both EdCom and the Clients. At all steps in this process, EdCom's Development group will work with EdCom's Database Administrator and Educational Technology staff to ensure the highest technical standards are incorporated. |
Step 3 - ImplementIf a commercial application is selected, then EdCom will work with the vendor to set up the system on an EdCom or vendor server, according to the agreement. EdCom will ensure the highest technical standards are mantained in this process. We will also manage the security and access rights to the system according to client specification and MedEd/UCSD regulations. If EdCom has developed the application, then we will copy it from the Development to the Production Server when both EdCom and the Client mutually agree that the system is ready for implementation. We will also manage the security and access rights to the system according to client specification and MedEd/UCSD regulations. Regardless of whether it is purchaced or developed, EdCom will take responsibility for the system. In addition we will provide one-on-one training, workshops, and/or help sheets to ensure successful utilization of system. | |
| Examples of EdCom-developed Administrative and Curricular applications can be found in the menu on the left side of this page. | |
