This section provides information about how to use the EDSCLS web-based platform, from installation and configuration through starting data collections and producing reports. The section includes two parts:
- Section 2.1 System Setup in Virtual Environment (for IT Staff) is intended for the education agency’s IT staff who will be in charge of downloading, installing, and configuring the EDSCLS web-based platform. Step-by-step instructions for IT staff are included in 2.1.1 Installation and Configuration. IT staff must install and configure the EDSCLS platform before the Survey Administrator can access it. In addition, the EDSCLS platform is open-source; therefore, 2.1.3 Database Access provides the option to allow database administrators to view and make any changes to the existing MySQL database. Additionally, IT staff may request the .NET Core source code by contacting the EDSCLS Help Desk via e-mail at edscls@air.org or by calling 866-730-6735.
- Section 2.2 EDSCLS Administration is intended for Survey Administrators, who oversee the survey data collection through the EDSCLS dashboard. The dashboard contains all the tools necessary to manage EDSCLS data collections, including initiating and monitoring data collections and producing reports. It is strongly recommended that Survey Administrators become familiar with the dashboard (along with this guide) to address any issues that may arise during active data collections.