A model LAN to support the learning HK school LAN administration

Learning and teaching of computer network administration involves a wide range of practices. Due to the lack of a supportive learning environment for diverse practices, learners may often encounter difficulties with capturing the concept and theory. This problem also occurs in some modules in the Hong Kong Institute of Education (HKIEd). For this reason, a project named Model LAN for Teaching and Learning (MLTL), funded by The Information Technology Strategic Committee (ITSC), has been developed. The major achievement of this project is the creation of a model LAN, which emulates a primary school network in Hong Kong, for students to explore their knowledge and practical skills in network administration. Upon completion of the project, the model LAN was utilized in a BEd (primary) module. After finishing a series of exploratory activities, a cross sectional survey was conducted. With the shown positive result on the predefined project objectives, some features also necessitate filling the gap between theoretical and practical issues in the learning of network administration. This paper intends to report how to meet this achievement.