University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension

Marketing Plan – Video Conferencing

Systems / Services
Prepared by: David T. Foote, Director, Information Technology and
Distance Education, UNH Cooperative Extension, Taylor Hall, Durham, NH

This marketing plan provides a framework for marketing UNH Cooperative

Extension’s video conferencing systems and the Granite State Distance Learning
Network (GSDLN) to a variety of groups including K -12 educators and
administrators, college/university faculty and staff, non-profit organizations, local
and state government agencies and departments, and
more, to maximize use of the system and extend the
benefits of these resources to a wide range of New
Hampshire citizens. UNH Cooperative Extension video
conferencing sites will be the primary provider of video
conferencing services in the state.

Benefits of video conferencing and learning at a

distance include:

• Saves travel time and costs to attend face-to-face meetings, workshops,

training sessions, conferences, etc.

• Provides access to resources available through satellite broadcasts and

high-speed Internet connectivity.

• Provides simultaneous interaction between participants located at multiple

locations throughout the state, region, nation and world.

• Allows teachers to teach at a distance using PowerPoint slides and to

share documents with students at remote locations.

• Easy to use with cameras that automatically focus, allowing presenters

control of the system with a remote control.

• Provides NH citizens and students with timely information that improves

lives, the economy and environment.
The Equipment and GSDLN
Making resources and timely information available, and the technology
accessible and easy to use, will drive the marketing of the video conferencing
equipment/services and Granite State Distance Learning Network (GSDLN).

The equipment consists of state-of-the-art video conferencing hardware and

software. PictureTel/Polycom products at each site incorporate cameras that
automatically track to the person speaking in the room, table microphones and
high resolution monitors provide the user with an outstanding audio and video
conferencing experience.

The network uses the existing commercial telecommunications infrastructure

available from Verizon to connect sites to a central hub called a “bridge.” The
bridge, located at the University of New Hampshire in Durham, provides both
point-to-point and multi-point, full-motion interactive video conferencing.

In addition, the network provides access to

broadband at the rate of 1.5 mbps that allows for
simultaneous video conferencing and high-speed
(384 kbps or 512 kbps) Internet access. It also
provides access to resources outside New Hampshire
through a gateway that supports both dial-in ISDN
and IP access, as well as access to Internet2.

Network partners formed the Granite State Distance

Learning Network (GSDLN), a public/private
partnership dedicated to developing and
implementing affordable, high-speed
telecommunications capacity. The GSDLN vision
seeks to bring interactive video networking and
Internet access to every New Hampshire community.
The primary goal is to deliver distance learning
professional development, community-based video conferencing and high-speed
access to the Internet across the state. GSDLN partners include K-12 schools,
post secondary institutions, non-profits, medical centers, and other local, regional
and state agencies. GSDLN is literally a window to the world, making available a
wide range of educational opportunities to citizens of all ages in communities
throughout New Hampshire.

Positioning Statement

UNH Cooperative Extension video conferencing systems and offices equipped

with high speed Internet connections will change the way people communicate,

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conduct business and how they get and remain informed. The positioning
statement reflects these issues and the fact that our offices will now be
connected to the world community in a whole new way. Possible statements
include:

o UNH Cooperative Extension Video Conferencing: Connecting Sullivan

County to UNH, the State, Region and World.
o UNH Cooperative Extension Video Conferencing: Putting the Technology
Revolution at Your Command.
o UNH Cooperative Extension Video Conferencing: The Gateway to the
21st Century Without the Hassle of Travel.
o UNH Cooperative Extension Video Conferencing: Making meetings
happen when you're miles away.
o UNH Cooperative Extension Video Conferencing: Technology Working for
You.

Market Segmentation

The UNH Cooperative Extension video conferencing systems will be introduced

to some clientele face-to-face while other clientele will learn about the technology
and services through the mail, print, email, or web. Pairing the right marketing
approach with correct target market will be important. The larger the target
market, the more impersonal the marketing approach (direct mail, print
advertisement, electronic media, etc.). The smaller the target market, the more
personal the marketing approach (face-to-face meetings, personal phone calls,
etc.).

Product/Service Philosophy

The product/service philosophy must reflect the general positioning of being

"hassle free." Cutting-edge technology is useless if users perceive that it’s too
difficult to use. All the product and service lines rely heavily on the technology. As
a result, it will be important to maintain a hassle-free environment. This will be
accomplished by having technical
support available during business
hours, training staff and clientele
in the use of the equipment and
having step-by-step “how to”
information sheets available for
users.

One reason many businesses

and professionals stick with
traditional forms of
communication is that they don't
feel they have the time to learn how to use new tools. It is common to see a
highly trained professional using an old word processor or spread sheet, because
they don't feel they have time to learn a new piece of software, even though they
acknowledge that it is more efficient. This has aptly been described as "too busy

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fighting the fires to turn around and turn the gas off..." By having a service
philosophy that focuses on "hassle-free" all decisions on how to deliver the
product must meet this litmus test. This allows new users the choice of selecting
video conferencing with the confidence there will be a very small learning curve.
The perception must be that using the video conferencing service is as easy to
use as making a conference call. The user makes an appointment for a video
conference, shows up, conducts their meeting and never once has to worry
about the technology.

Marketing and Promotion

The primary method of marketing the video conferencing service will be face-to-
face approaches between UNH Cooperative Extension staff and potential users.
The initial meeting should not focus on the services available through video
conferencing but instead attempt to draw out the communication obstacles
prospects are experiencing. Some of these meetings may be impromptu or as
part of another meeting when
communications issues arise.

Once obstacles are identified, staff

will attempt to identify how video
conferencing might address these
needs and if appropriate, invite the
potential user(s) to a video
conference demonstration.
Because we are recommending
this type of approach, video
conference demonstrations will be
more important than traditional printed and electronic marketing materials.
Potential new users may also elect to participate, as an observer, by attending an
already scheduled video conference.

A secondary marketing approach will include direct mail to area educational

institutions, non-profit groups, government departments, etc., to reach a broader
audience than can be reached in personal meetings. An introductory brochure
has been developed which outlines the benefits of using this type of technology,
site locations and contact information.

A third approach will include advertising local programs delivered by video

conference technology through newspapers, newsletters, local cable television,
radio, web and other traditional Cooperative Extension methods of advertising
programs. Participants, having attended a successful distance-delivered
program, will help spread the word of their positive experiences to colleagues
and friends.

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Pricing Model

1. NO GSDLN Site Fee – for Consortium Members (8:00am – 5:00pm

weekdays)
Currently members of the GSDLN Consortium are working under the
understanding that we will not charge each other for use of our sites
during normal working hours. Example: If Extension wants to use the
NCEF site in Gorham, so staff can attend a meeting without having to
drive 2 ½ hours to Durham, NCEF will let us use its site between 8am –
5pm at no cost. Current Policy: No costs for consortium members
during normal working hours.

2. GSDLN Site Fee – for Consortium Members (weekends and after

hours)
To facilitate GSDLN Consortium meetings, conferences, and workshops
during weekends and after hours, members realize it will be necessary to
charge a fee to reimburse the staff necessary for opening/closing the
building and turning on/off the equipment. Example: NCEF wants to use
our Brentwood site to hold a meeting on Tuesday evening from 6:00pm –
8:00pm. Hence, we would need a staff person to open the building at
6:00pm, turn on the PictureTel (Ptel) system, show users how to use the
mute button, turn off the system at 8:00pm and lock the building. Current
Policy: Charge Consortium members $25 per hour to unlock/lock the
building and turn on/off the Ptel system. Staff member is paid $25
per hour for time and effort.

3. GSDLN Site Fee – for Non-Consortium Members

Currently, all GSDLN consortium members use the network only for non-
profit educational programs, workshops, meetings and events. The
Governance and Finance Committee is looking into establishing uniform
fees for use of the network by non-member organizations. Example: The
Red Cross wants to use our Boscawen site, NCEF’s site in Gorham, and
NHPTV’s site to hold a CPR training class on Saturday morning from 9:00
to 11:00am. Current Policy: Each organization charge $50 per hour
to cover network operating costs (@$25 per hour) and for a person
(@$25 per hour) to unlock/lock the building and turn on/off the Ptel
system.

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Customer Service Values

Repeat users and word of mouth advertising are important to the success of the
video conferencing component of UNH Cooperative Extension sites. Each new
user of the video conferencing service must be viewed as a repeat customer that
can be lost if they have a poor experience. Staff trained in the use of the video
conferencing equipment will provide a comfortable level of support for the new
user. In addition, the new user will be encouraged to arrive at their site at least ½
hour before the meeting begins to receive a brief hands-on orientation on how
the system works.

Market Research/Evaluation

Market research will be collected in three forms. Data will come from UNHCE
staff, County Office Administrators, and the Assistant Director, County
Operations, regarding what aspects of the video conferencing service are
meeting or exceeding customers' expectations and what gaps need to be filled in
the service. The second form of market research will take the form of phone and
mail surveys of past customers. The third form of market research will be a
compilation of customer comment cards and program evaluations distributed
following meetings and workshops to assess participants’ reactions to the
technology.

Recommendations

While the goal of most traditional marketing is simply to generate interest in a

product or service, the marketing of this video conferencing service is different.
Rather than focusing solely on the generation of interest in the video
conferencing service, staff will center conversations and/or consultations on
assessing the communication needs of existing and potential clientele. In line
with most all Extension initiatives “to help
clientele help themselves,” this approach
will assist new users in seeing the benefits
of the technology and encourage them to
give it a try.

In addition, staff will use video conferencing

technology to deliver and market existing
Extension programs to clientele. Using this
model, new video conference participants
would become video conference system users and seek ways for this new
technology to help them in their own work, professional development and/or
training.

This marketing plan needs to be implemented in conjunction with Cooperative

Extension’s Master Strategic Plan, Communications/Technology Strategic Plan,
Extension Marketing Plan and other appropriate UNH Marketing Plans. In
addition, this plan needs to be modified as needed to ensure it remains up-to-
date and relevant.

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Distribution of the video conferencing introductory brochure to new users during
face-to-face meetings will generate one pool of prospects. Other prospects will
be generated through other techniques outlined in this marketing plan (direct
mail, print and electronic media).

Given the nature of marketing this service, attention should focus on: 1)
interpersonal approaches; 2) collateral materials; and 3) media.

UNH Cooperative Extension video conferencing sites will be the primary

provider of video conferencing services in the state for a variety of groups
including K-12 educators and administrators, college/university faculty and
staff, non-profit organizations, local and state government agencies,
departments, and more.

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Marketing Plan – Appendix A

Introduction

The Granite State Distance Learning Network is a public/private

partnership dedicated to developing and implementing affordable, high-
speed telecommunications capacity. The vision seeks to bring
interactive video networking and Internet access to every New
Hampshire community. The primary goal is to deliver distance learning
professional development, community-based video conferencing and
high-speed access to the Internet across the state. GSDLN partners
include K-12 schools, post secondary institutions, non-profits, medical
centers, and other local, regional and state agencies. The GSDLN is
literally a window to the world, making available a wide range of
educational opportunities to citizens of all ages in communities
throughout New Hampshire.

Characteristics of GSDLN

Open Architecture Multi-point Network

• Uses existing commercial telecommunications infrastructure

available from Verizon to connect New Hampshire sites to a central
hub.
• Provides both point-to-point and multi-point, full-motion interactive
video conferencing through a state-of-the-art video-bridge located
at the University of New Hampshire in Durham.
• Provides the ability to have simultaneous multi-point conferences.
• All technology adheres to recognized industry standards.

Global High-speed Access

• Provides access to broadband at the rate of 1.5 mbps that allows

for simultaneous video conferencing and high-speed (384 kbps or
512 kbps) Internet access.
• Provides access to resources outside GSDLN, within New
Hampshire and beyond, through a gateway that supports both dial-
in ISDN and IP access, as well as access to Internet2.

Technical Support

• Provides network and end-user technical support through a

contract-for-service with the University of New Hampshire.

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Governance

• A membership organization that respects local control so that each

member has control over their site, including technology and
content.
• Each member has a voice since all decisions that affect the
organization, such as rates, infrastructure and governance, are by
vote of the members.

GSDLN Coordinating committee

Chairperson:
David T. Foote
Director, Information Technology and Distance Education
University of New Hampshire
Cooperative Extension
Phone: 603.862.1498
Email: david.foote@unh.edu

Vice Chairperson:
Philip Girard
SupportNet Project Coordinator
Crotched Mountain Foundation
Phone: 603.547.3311 x251
Email: girard@cmf.org

Secretary:
Matt Treamer
Distance Learning Coordinator
North Country Education Foundation
Phone: 603.466.5437
Email: matt@ncef.org

Governance and Finance Sub-Committee Chair:

Chris Collman
Program Coordinator
The Gregg Public Safety Academy
Phone: 603.444.9889
Email: chris.collman@cll.edu

Programs and Services Sub-Committee Chair:

Regan Pride
Distance Learning Coordinator
White Mountains SAU 35
Phone: 603.444.3925
Email: r.pride@sau35.k12.nh.us

Technology Sub-Committee Chair:

Roy Bailey
Technology Coordinator

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 Bow School District
Phone: 603.228.2210 x320
Email: rbailey@bow.k12.nh.us

GSDLN Infrastructure

Network Architecture

• GSDLN is part of the University System of New Hampshire’s Wide

Area Network (WAN), including the video-bridge, a gateway and
high-speed access to the Internet.

Network Connectivity

• GSDLN sites are connected to the network using Verizon ATM

circuits that are available in every part of the state at a fixed rate
regardless of location.
• Access to dial-in ISDN and IP connectivity is through the UNH
gateway.
• Access to satellite uplink and downlink capabilities is available
through New Hampshire Public Television to import and export
programming.

Network Management

• The University of New Hampshire’s Computing and Information

Services provides management of the network and its components.

Cost Structure

Through an agreed upon formula for cost sharing, the burden of paying for
the operation of the network is divided among all of the members. There
are two primary components that impact on the costs for the GSDLN: one-
time end-user capital costs, and network operations and management
services provided by the University of New Hampshire.

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Sites and Locations

The GSDLN consortium is comprised of 33 members located throughout

the state of New Hampshire. Members include:

K-12 Public Schools

Colebrook Colebrook Academy
Woodsville Woodsville High School
Whitefield White Mountain Regional High School
Littleton Littleton High School
Lisbon Lisbon Regional High School
Bethlehem Profile Senior High School
Lincoln Lin-Wood High School
New London Kearsarge Regional High School
Londonderry Londonderry High School
Penacook Merrimack Valley High School
Bow Bow High School
Nashua Elm Street Junior High School

Postsecondary Institutions
Durham University of New Hampshire
Manchester UNH Manchester
Concord College of Life Long Learning
Keene Keene State College
Plymouth Plymouth State College
Hanover Dartmouth College
Littleton New Hampshire Community Technical College

University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension Offices

North Haverhill Grafton County

Newport Sullivan County
Laconia Belknap County
Boscawen Merrimack County
Brentwood Rockingham County
Durham Strafford County

State Agencies

Concord New Hampshire Department of Transportation

Concord New Hampshire Fire Academy
Concord New Hampshire Police Standards/Training Council

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Others

Gorham North Country Education Foundation

Littleton Northern NH Area Health Education Center
Littleton Gregg Public Safety Academy
Lisbon New England Electric Wire
Bedford Southeastern Regional Education Service Center
Greenfield Crotched Mountain Foundation
Durham New Hampshire Public Television

Sites Pending (Winter 03 - 04)

Berlin New Hampshire Community Technical College

Claremont New Hampshire Community Technical College
Concord New Hampshire Community Technical College
Laconia New Hampshire Community Technical College
Manchester New Hampshire Community Technical College
Nashua New Hampshire Community Technical College
Portsmouth New Hampshire Community Technical College
Stratham New Hampshire Community Technical College

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Marketing Plan - Appendix B

Infrastructure

Governance

• A membership organization that respects local control so that each

member has control over their site, including technology and
content.
• Each member has a voice since all decisions that affect the
organization, such as rates, infrastructure and governance, are by
vote of the members.

Open Architecture Multi-point Network

• Uses existing commercial telecommunications infrastructure

available from Verizon to connect New Hampshire sites to a central
hub.
• Provides both point-to-point and multi-point, full-motion interactive
video conferencing through a state-of-the-art video-bridge located
at the University of New Hampshire in Durham.
• Provides the ability to have simultaneous multi-point conferences.
• All technology adheres to recognized industry standards.

Global High-speed Access

• Provides to access to broadband at the rate of 1.5 mbps that allows

for simultaneous video conferencing and high-speed (384 kbps or
512 kbps) Internet access.
• Provides access to resources outside GSDLN, within New
Hampshire and beyond, through a gateway that supports both dial-
in ISDN and IP access, as well as access to Internet2.

Technical Support

• Provides network and end-user technical support through a

contract-for-service with the University of New Hampshire.

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GSDLN Infrastructure (cont.)

Network Architecture

• GSDLN is part of the University System of New Hampshire’s Wide

Area Network (WAN), including the video-bridge, a gateway and
high-speed access to the Internet.

Network Connectivity

• GSDLN sites are connected to the network using Verizon ATM

circuits that are available in every part of the state at a fixed rate
regardless of location.
• Access to dial-in ISDN and IP connectivity is through the UNH
gateway.
• Access to satellite uplink and downlink capabilities is available
through New Hampshire Public Television to import and export
programming.

Network Management

• The University of New Hampshire’s Computing and Information

Services provides management of the network and its components.

Cost Structure

Through an agreed upon formula for cost sharing, the burden of paying for
the operation of the network is divided among all of the members. There
are two primary components that impact on the costs for the GSDLN: one-
time end-user capital costs, and network operations and management
services provided by the University of New Hampshire.

• One-time End-user Capital

o Basic Video conferencing System $10,000 - 18,000
o Telecommunications Equipment $ 6,000 - 12,000
o Optional Equipment $ 5,000 - 35,000
o GSDLN membership fee $ 5,000
• Network Operations and Management Fees

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 Annual Per Site
Costs Monthly
University of New Hampshire GSDLN Network Operations Charge
and Management Fees

Management & Operations Fees

Business Operations & Administration: $15,754 $30

• Basic E-rate assistance
• Annual contract management (includes vendor negotiations)
• Work order process – request for services
• Billing inquiries
• Annual pricing analysis
• Participation on GSDLN Consortium (operational/billing issues)
Network Management: $85,333 $162
• Onsite management of USNH WAN
• Onsite network and video bridge troubleshooting - (does not include
member’s videoconferencing units)
• Domain name hosting
• ATM circuit management
• Network management equipment maintenance
• Participation on GSDLN Consortium (technical issues)
Conference Scheduling: $17,788 $34
• Serves as contact for scheduling video bridge
GSDLN Website Management: $17,788 $34
• Maintains GSDLN website
After Hours Network Management: Monday - Friday 5 PM–9 PM $37,929 $72
• Onsite management of USNH WAN
• Onsite network and video bridge troubleshooting (does not include
member’s videoconferencing units)
• ATM circuit management
• Conference scheduling issues
Total Network Management Fee $331

Video Bridge Fee

• Video Bridge (Capital recovery; purchased 7/2001 w/ UNH Loan) $116,000 $220
• Video Bridge Annual Maintenance $23,000 $44
Total Video Bridge Fee $264

ATM Circuit Fee – Per Site

• Pass through of Verizon charges N/A $656
ATM Circuit Fee – Per Site N/A $656

Data Fee – Per Site Internet Access Charge

• 384K bandwidth $200
• 512K bandwidth $267

Total Annual/Monthly Charge w/ 384K Data: Per Site $17,412 $1,451

Total Annual/Monthly Charge w/ 512K Data: Per Site $18,206 $1,518

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GSDLN Site Map

16
Marketing Plan - Appendix C

Programs
Sample Content Available Over GSDLN
• Credit courses for high school and post-secondary students
• Continuing education certificate & non-certificate programs
• Professional development programs for K-12 educators
• Training for health care providers, police, fire and EMTs
• Educational programs for business and industry
• Multi-site administrative meetings

K – 12 Professional Development and Student Programs – The

following chart is a sampling of programs offered during the 2002 –
2003 school year:

Event Purpose # In # Of # Of
Series Sites Participants
Paraprofessional Professional 6 4 72
Series Training for
Para-
professionals
Autism Series Professional 6 4 44
Training for
Teachers
Teach North Masters Math 14 1 11
Math Class Course
NH Wild Series Professional 8 4 Varies
Staff
Development for
Teachers
NHSTE Super Technology 5 3 Varies
Thursdays Training for
Teachers
NH Association Meetings for 2 1 Varies
of Special NHASEA are
Education video cast to
Administrators NCEF so
members may
attend meetings
SPED Meeting SPED meeting 1 1 Varies
with specialists
Diplomats in the Encourage 5 4 Varies
Classroom student interest

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 in World Affairs
Senator Sununu Talk to students 1 3 88
about war in
Afghanistan
Read Across Encouraging 3 10 575
America students to read Students
20 Teachers

The North Country Education Foundation has developed a consortium of

schools that will be offering high school courses over GSDLN in the 2003 – 2004
school year.

Class Semester Originating School

Introduction to Fall & Lin-Wood
Aviation Spring
AP Calculus Fall & Lin-Wood
Spring
AP Statistics Fall & Colebrook
Spring
Fundamentals Fall & Lisbon
of Music Spring
Spanish III Fall & Woodsville
Spanish IV Spring

University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension Distance Education

Programs

• National Programs, Conferences and Meetings

o "The Impact of Entertainment Media on Children and Families"

– four-part satellite series
o National Satellite Broadcast – “Bio-Terrorism conference”
o National HIPAA Challenge - Satellite conference
o National Institute of Corrections – “Jail Inmates with Mental
Illness” national broadcast
o “Gentle Logging” national satellite conference
o USDA grant proposal development
o Plant Sciences Research Meeting - University of Maryland
o Distance Education Policy Conference – UNHCE, NHDOE,
Oregon State University
o Blue Cross for Federal Employees conference
o International Agriculture Exchange Project meeting with UNH
and Univ. of Minnesota
o “Achieving Outcomes…” – National Community Anti-Drug
Program workshop
o “Building Partnerships between Gateway Communities” –
National Conservation Service training
o National LEAP program meeting / grantsmanship training

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University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension Distance Education
Programs (cont.)

• State Outreach Programs, Conferences and Workshops

o “Food Safety ” statewide workshop

o “Building Partnerships between Gateway Communities” – White
Mtn. National Forest staff training
o “Kids Count” – statewide training session
o “Marketing on a shoestring” training for Entrepreneurs –
MicroCredit New Hampshire
o NHDOE - Apple Computer Satellite Conference
o New Hampshire Audubon – Information Technology and Distance
Education development meeting
o Granite State Distance Learning Network monthly meetings
o New Hampshire ArcView Users Group monthly meetings
o Ray Burton (Executive Councilor) – Connecticut River Basin
Commissioner meetings
o UNH Soils Analysis program planning/ development meetings
o UNH “Distance Education Tools” Workshop
o “How to Best Display Health Data” – UNH Health Policy Institute
workshop
o UNHCE “Logic Model” training
o UNHCE Plant Diagnosis workshop
o UNHCE statewide training session for Landscapers
o UNHCE Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Training

• UNHCE Programs, Conferences and Meetings- (UNHCE has used

the GSDLN network to facilitate over 150 programs, conferences and
meetings in the past few months)

o Extension STST Project Strategy Meetings

o Reorganization Structure Committee (CRAS) Meetings
o Statewide Conference Planning Team meetings
o 4-H Program Planning meetings
o UNH Deans Council meetings
o Extension Management Team meetings
o Program Planning/Evaluation Team meetings
o County to County educator planning meetings
o Family and Youth Advisory Committee conference
o Water Quality Program planning meeting
o 4-H Foundation meeting – Investments and Retirement
o In-service Training - Social Marketing Your Route to Results
o Extension Evaluation Team meetings
o State Strengthening Project site management team retreat
o Marketing Extension Educator Council meetings
o Extension Logic Model Planning conference
o Blue Ribbon 4-H Software training
o Extension Program Development and Evaluation team meetings

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 o Volunteer Development conference
o Extension Educator Training - Nutrition Connections
o Agriculture Research Project planning meeting
o UNH Soils Testing Lab software development team meetings
o Associate Director Search Committee interviews with candidates
located across the country

Gregg Public Safety Academy – Littleton

Funded by a series of grants from the U.S. Department of Justice, the

Academy has focused on providing repeatable, successful training
experiences in response to identified community needs. Using the
resources of GSDLN has allowed the Academy to deliver economical
training at the regional training center.

• Police Officer Training - Since August 2002, the Gregg Public Safety
Academy has been used as a regional training and meeting facility an
average of 58 hours a month. The principle project was the “Part Time
Officer's” school involving 80 hours of interactive video training
originating from the New Hampshire Police Training and Standards
Council in Concord.

• Community-based Activities – The facility has been used by state,

municipal and federal agencies, including: local police departments,
Small Business Development Centers, schools, the New Hampshire
Fire Academy, the New Hampshire Department of Transportation, the
New Hampshire Department of Resources and Economic
Development, New Hampshire Administrative Services, the Attorney
General’s Office, the Liquor Commission, U.S. Department of Justice,
New Hampshire Department of Safety Emergency Management
Services, New Hampshire Community Technical College System. In
addition, it has served regional businesses and non-profits such as
New England Wire, North Country Health Consortium members,
Dartmouth College and the North Country Council.

New Hampshire Historical Society

Striking a Balance between Growth and Preservation in New Hampshire -

The New Hampshire Historical Society and the Society for the Protection
of New Hampshire Forests discuss the history and the future of the state's
efforts to preserve its natural and cultural heritage while accommodating
growth. Through a partnership with New Hampshire Public Television’s
Distance Learning Network, presenters and participants will take part in a
live, linked discussion. This discussion will use Claiming the Land: Our
Past, Our Future, Our Choice, a joint exhibition of NHHS and SPNHF, as
a point of departure to explore the fascinating history and complex
contemporary issues surrounding how the state’s land and water
resources are used.

20
New Hampshire Public Television – NHPTV has been active in offering
professional development programs using the resources of GSDLN. They
include:

• Education Connection – Hands-on workshops designed to help

teachers to effectively integrate the use of technology into their
instructional programs. They are “content specific” designed to align
with the New Hampshire curriculum frameworks and are not platform
dependent. The following is a sample of the workshop offerings:

o Internet Search Strategies – Learn to quickly find what you are

looking for on the Internet, including an overview of the major
search engines and directories.

o Educator's Guide to the Internet - Discover effective ways to

integrate the Internet into your teaching, including browser tips,
searching and great web sites for both you and your students.

o PowerPoint Made Easy - Learn to create PowerPoint

presentations, including creating, editing, and formatting slides;
adding clipart and pictures; and creating charts and graphs.

o Earth Science on the Web - Learn to teach Earth Science in the

classroom using technology, including an overview of websites as
well as strategies for using the sites in the classroom.

o Life Science on the Web - Learn to teach Life Science in the

classroom using technology, including an overview of websites as
well as strategies for using them in the classroom.

o Children's and Young Adult Literature on the Internet - Learn

how to use the Internet in your language arts class by exploring
great literature sites and discover web-based activities that will help
your students explore literature.

• TeacherLine - Using the latest Internet and video technology,

TeacherLine provides online learning opportunities, state and local
certificate programs, and access to exemplary resources.

• JASON XIV: From Shore to Sea - Explore the terrestrial and marine
ecosystems that extend from California's coast to the Channel Islands
Marine Sanctuary to learn how such systems affect life on our planet.

• Wild New Hampshire - A monthly series of workshops presented by

the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department that explores the
natural environment in New Hampshire. The workshops are designed
for the K-12 educator.

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 • Intel Teach to the Future – A five-day “train the trainer” program to
provide teachers with the skills to train other teachers in effective
methods of integrate technology into their instructional programs.

Expansion Capabilities

The design of GSDLN allows for expansion to accommodate additional users.

There is no technical limitation to the number of sites that can be connected.
The key component is the capacity of the video bridge that can be
incrementally expanded as new users join the consortium. Currently the
bridge supports 42 direct connects, two ISDN calls and 12 IP connections.
There are no technical limitations to site location since Verizon’s ATM is
available throughout the New Hampshire.

Lin-Wood High School (Lincoln) Distance Learning Projects

Christa McAuliffe Conference

The Christa McAuliffe Conference was held on Wed &Thursday, Dec. 4th&
5th at the Windham Room at the Sheraton Hotel in Nashua. There was the
main site in Nashua and four far end sites that participated. Lin-Wood
was one of the four far end sites and our job was to demonstrate how a far
end works with the use of the Document camera. Other sites
demonstrated the Smart Board, Internet inclusion, etc. Regan Pride,
Littleton, and I worked as a team. As Site #4, Lin-Wood discussed
Curriculum Sharing-AP classes, and accessing online courses. The
points for consideration: Tuition, teacher contract, salaries, student
responsibility, teacher and student training with online delivery and
receiving instruction, monitoring & using the document reader. Regan
Pride presented example of events: Upcoming Feb. event-Black history
month-inventions how it evolved and how it is advertised to school
districts. It went well, as the audiences in Nashua both days were large
and interested.

SATs

Regan Pride, Littleton, offered a SAT Prep course that would last 5 weeks.
(Two afternoons weekly and 2 Saturdays.) We advertised it throughout
the high school but there were no takers. We had some interest but
nobody was willing to make the commitment. The cost was to be $100
per student. I think that this was the problem but I understand that the
instructors and materials have to be paid for. A suggestion from our
Guidance department would be to run this exact same course again in the
fall, starting as early in September as possible. If the instructors were
willing, the feeling is that all Saturday sessions (no weekdays because of
soccer, football, volleyball, driver ed., etc.) might have fewer conflicts.

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Read Across America

The Read Across America even went very well this year. Lin-Wood
participated during the reading sessions. The Opening event was on
March 3rd, Flyer attached. The participating schools read to each other on
Tuesday and Wednesday, March 4th and 5th. Lin-Wood’s 9th graders read
to Londonderry 9th graders on Wednesday, March 5th for 1 hour and a half.
Londonderry created an article with pictures for the local papers and is
sending us a copy to post.

2003/2004 Distance Learning Courses

The GSDLN and NCEF have been meeting almost weekly and have been
working very hard to advertise needed courses as well as course
offerings. This is a continuing effort and all the Guidance Counselors,
principals; DL coordinators are working to fill these courses as well as
creating bell schedules to satisfy all schools.

NH Wildlife

We have been running a New Hampshire Wildlife series. It is held once a

month on Thursday afternoon from 4:00 to 5:30, and we have two
participants. I have attached the flyer to explain exactly what has been
covered.

War Games

Roy Bailey, Bow, has been offering a series called “Diplomats in the
Classroom”. We have been participating in this. The next Diplomats in
the Classroom Program has been set for March 19th from 9:50 to 11:00.
The speaker will be Bob Gile from Concord and the topic will be “War
Games”. This is the second in the series and will be held in Connie
Ward’s room. Both Connie and Georgian Boyd have taken part in this
series.

Course Offerings to Teachers This Summer

Steve Dutilly sent out a message offering a Microsoft Office 2000 overview
to all the teachers at Lin-Wood. This is to try to build interest for a
Summer School course for the teachers that Connie and I will teach. The
first overview is this Wednesday afternoon after school 2:30 to 4:00, to the
Elementary school teachers. The next one is for the Middle and High
school teachers and will be held in April. Connie Ward and I are
presenting an overview of Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access. We are
designing these overviews for the “Need to Know” for the teachers and we
hope that they will want to educate themselves to help their students in
projects next year that will require the knowledge of Microsoft Office.

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Student-to-Student Topics

After some brief correspondence with participating schools, the Distance

Learning Bridge would be open noon to 1pm to all interested schools
every day for at least two weeks. If this experiment works out, other time
slots or longer periods of time will be offered. I could monitor this period
each day to ensure that appropriate topics are discussed, and that the
Distance Learning equipment is set up and used properly.

Topics that could be discussed on a scheduled basis:

• Projects or presentations (English, Social Studies, Science)

• Book Reports
• Math problems
• Sports
• Community Service
• Social Events (Exchanging ideas on themes, etc.)
• Student Council activities

Once the ball gets rolling, students could plan ahead of time with other
schools to discuss certain topics that are common to the schools and the
students.

We feel that if we allow students to become more involved with the

Distance Learning equipment and its capabilities, they will take the ball
and come up with fresh ideas. The equipment will then become more
functional.

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Appendix D – Sample of GSDLN Programming Schedule

Monday, March 3, 2003

Mar 3 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 Read Across America Week Opening Event
a.m.
Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network
Posted by: Kathleen Malsbenden
Details:
Rebecca Rule will kick off Read Across America by addressing students
throughout the state via teleconferencing. She will speak live from
Merrimack Valley High School to all participating GSDLN sites. SCHEDULE:
Opening Celebration 10:30: Welcome Kathy Malsbenden~Program Chair,
Granite State Distance Learning Network Karen McDonough~President,
NEA-New Hampshire 10:35-10:55 Featured Reader Joseph W.
McQuaid~President and Publisher, The Union Leader 10:55-11:15 Read
Across America Celebrity Reader Rebecca Rule~New Hampshire author and
humorist 11:15: Closing

Audience: K-12

GSDLN sites: Merrimack Valley (host) Woodsville High School,

Woodsville, NH Moharimet Elementary School, Madbury, NH (at
NHPTV) Penacook Elementary School, Penacook, NH

Tuesday, March 4, 2003

Mar 4 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Read Across America Reading Exchanges

Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network
Posted by: Kathleen Malsbenden
Details:
Students from across the state will partner with classes from each other via
GSDLN to read and exchange literary ideas during one-hour segments. NEA
sponsors this event. GSDLN and NEA-NH are hosting this national event in
New Hampshire in order to give all students in the state the opportunity to
experience meeting each other through teleconferencing.

Audience: K-12

GSDLN sites: Merrimack Valley (host

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Wednesday, March 12, 2003

Mar 12 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Assistive Technology Awareness Day

Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network
Posted by: David Foote
Details:
Assistive Technology Awareness Day
Provided by Crotched Mountain’s Assistive Technology
Department
-9:00 to 10:00 Controlling My World with Voice, Large
Button, and Switches
Description: A demonstration of a variety of simple and
complex environmental controls from SICARE to large
button television remotes.
-10:15 to 10:45 Workin’ at the Carwash
Description: A quick simple method for cleaning and
checking manual wheelchairs put to the music of Ross
Royce’s classic 70’s song.
-11:00 to 12:00 IntelliTools Bowling
Description: Come and bowl a game with in the
IntelliKeys and Switch. Great All-American fun for one
and all.
-1:00 to 2:00 How many ways can you drive a
wheelchair?
Description: Demonstrations of a variety of wheelchairs
drive systems.
- 2:15 to 2:45 AlphaSmart Classroom
Description: Demonstration of the AlphaSmart 3000 and
two custom applet software programs.
- 3:00 to 4:00 Thematically Speaking
Description: A demonstration of IntelliTools Second
Generation Classroom Suite and using it to teach via a
thematic unit. The unit is entitled “Careers”.

Audience: All interested

GSDLN Sites: Crotched Mountain

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Wednesday, March 19, 2003

Mar 19 9:45 a.m. - 11:15 Diplomats in the Classroom: War Games

a.m.
Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network
Posted by: Roy Bailey
Details:
Bob Gile from Concord will present and answer question on "War Games:
How they are used to provide choices concerning U.S. national security."

Audience: All interested

GSDLN Sites: Bow High School, others interested contact Roy Bailey

Thursday, March 20, 2003

Mar 20 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Part 1: Building a Student-Designed Multimedia Project

Using PowerPoint (2nd Session-April 3, 2003)
Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network
Posted by: Kathleen Malsbenden
Details:
During this workshop participants will build an example of a student-
designed multimedia project by learning first to ask the right questions and
frame the ideas, and then build their PowerPoint skills. Finally there will
learn to assess student knowledge. These two sessions will build PowerPoint
skills from beginning to more advanced.

Audience: Teachers / Educators

GSDLN sites: SERESC (host), Merrimack Valley, Woodsville, Gorham

Mar 20 4 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Wildlife-borne Human Diseases

Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network
Posted by: David Foote
URL: http://www.gsdln.org/nhwildseries.pdf
Details:
Wildlife-borne Human Diseases, Dr. Jose Montero, N.H. Dept. of Health and
Human Services; 4:00pm - 5:30pm Tired of driving all over the state for
professional development? Join educators to learn about the habitats and
wildlife of New Hampshire. This program is the first in a series of 8
programs, the NH Fish and Game's Wild New Hampshire series, to be
conducted over the GSDLN network.

Audience: Teachers / Educators

GSDLN Sites: NH Public TV, Durham; Bow High School, Bow; North
Country Education Foundation, Gorham; Crotched Mountain,
Greenfield

Mar 20 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 Marketing On A Shoestring

p.m.
Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network
Posted by: David Foote
Details:
Marketing On A Shoestring Workshop This workshop, presented by Traci
Bisson, co-owner of Bisson Barcelona, will cover inexpensive, fundamental
and successful methods of marketing your business. From Durham, NH, this
pilot workshop will be broadcast to the following locations around the State.

27
 This is a joint program of MicroCredit-NH and Granite State Distance
Learning Network. To Register: Call Candace Whittemore at (603) 224-
2069 or (800) 769-3482 Cost: $5.00 for members, $10.00 for non-
members

Audience: Small Business Owners, Entrepreneurs

GSDLN Sites: New England Electric Wire, 130 North Main St., Lisbon
Crotched Mountain Foundation, One Verney Dr., Greenfield; SERESC,
Professional Development Center, 29 Commerce Dr., Bedford; UNH
Cooperative Extension, Taylor Hall, 59 College Rd., Durham

Thursday, March 27, 2003

Mar 27 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 GSDLN Monthly Meeting
p.m.
Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network
Posted by: David Foote
Details:
GSDLN Monthly Meeting, Please contact David Foote if you would like to be
added to the list of sites participating.

Audience: GSDLN Steering Committee

GSDLN Sites: UNHCE-Taylor, NHPTV, Bow HS, Crotched Mountain,

NCEF

Mar 27 5:45 p.m. - 9:30 Housing, History, and Haystacks

p.m.
Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network
Posted by: June Kramarczyk
Details:
Striking a Balance between Growth and Preservation in New Hampshire -
The New Hampshire Historical Society and the Society for the Protection of
New Hampshire Forests will discuss the history and the future of the state's
efforts to preserve its natural and cultural heritage while accommodating
growth. Through a partnership with New Hampshire Public Television’s
Distance Learning Network, presenters and participants will take part in a
live, linked discussion. This discussion will use Claiming the Land: Our Past,
Our Future, Our Choice, a joint exhibition of NHHS and SPNHF, as a point of
departure to explore the fascinating history and complex contemporary
issues surrounding how the state’s land and water resources are used. To
R.S.V.P. or for more information, contact Mark Foynes at the New
Hampshire Historical Society, 603/856-0611 or mfoynes@nhhistory.org.
Professional credit available for New Hampshire foresters. Major funding for
Claiming the Land: Our Past, Our Future, Our Choice was provided by
Jefferson Pilot Financial

Audience: All interested

GSDLN Sites: Bow High School, Nashua Junior High School

Thursday, April 3, 2003

Apr 3 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Part 2: Building a Student-Designed Multimedia Project

Using PowerPoint.
Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network
Posted by: Kathleen Malsbenden
Details:
During this workshop participants will build an example of a student-
designed multimedia project by learning first to ask the right questions
and frame the ideas, then build their PowerPoint skills. Finally there will
learn to assess student knowledge. These two sessions will build
PowerPoint skills from beginning to more advanced.

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 Audience: Teachers / Educators

GDSLN sites: SERESC (host), Merrimack Valley, Woodsville, NCEF

Gorham

Thursday, April 17, 2003

Apr 17 4 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Amphibian Breeding Strategies

Calendar: Granite State Distance Learning Network
Posted by: David Foote
URL: http://www.gsdln.org/nhwildseries.pdf
Details:
Amphibian Breeding Strategies, Dr. Kim Babbitt, University of New
Hampshire; 4:00pm - 5:30pm; Tired of driving all over the state for
professional development? Join educators to learn about the habitats and
wildlife of New Hampshire. This program is the first in a series of 8
programs, the NH Fish and Game's Wild New Hampshire series, to be
conducted over the GSDLN network.

Audience: Teachers / Educators

GSDLN Sites: NH Public TV, Durham; Bow High School, Bow; North
Country Education Foundation, Gorham; Crotched Mountain,
Greenfield

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Marking Plan - Appendix E

UNH Cooperative Extension Video Conferencing Brochure

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31