Integrating a Decision Support System into a School: The Effects on Student Functioning

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.