School/Madrasah Improvement through School Database System (SDS)

(Based on story from Bapak Harry Idwan, Data Information Specialist of DBE1 Aceh)

We often hear stories about computer that stays unused in teachers’ room because there is nobody in school who knows how to use it. Or, teachers and staff who have knowledge about using a computer but can not utilize their skills because the school/madrasah they work for does not have any computer.

School principal and teachers are working together to complete SDS program

These stories are also experienced by principals, teachers, and staff of DBE1 schools in Aceh. In addition to not having computer in their school or no prior exposure to the technology, some of them feel a level of anxiety when thinking about using a computer on a regular basis. However, after their attended DBE1 School Database System (SDS) training, all of these concerns were gone. In the beginning, they thought that the SDS program is only for data collection. They are now aware that the program developed by DBE1 help them to manage and store school data. Prior to SDS, all school data and information was stored separately in various log books/notes, now the data is stored in single database and can be easily accessed. Most of the school representatives feel that the SDS program is very easy to operate and useful for the school’s future, especially for recording school’s data and profile and developing different reports such as school grants (Biaya Operasional Sekolah/BOS) report. This training also received positive response from District Education Office and District Parliament and they allocated funds and worked toward buying more computers for schools in their area.

After trained by DBE1 Aceh Team, participants were not only very enthusiastic to learn the SDS program but also encouraged to use computer more often. Some of the participants decided to purchase their own computer and some often go to computer rental store to complete the school work. Participants who did not understand or have never used computer before now understand to use one. There are also participants who become proficient in SDS and use his or her skills and knowledge to help other schools complete their SDS program.