The Xploris is a versatile, all-in-one educational platform designed for K-5 students, offering an engaging way to integrate science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) into the classroom.
This compact and portable device combines hands-on learning with advanced features such as built-in sensors for data collection, compatibility with coding languages such as Blockly and Python, and an intuitive interface that supports cross-curricular activities, which is at the heart of the Next Generation Science Standards.
Xploris: Getting Started
I found getting started with the Xploris very straightforward. The device's user-friendly, colorful interface and feature set really showed me how it can easily integrate into STEAM curriculums.
The Xploris platform is really a hands-on, cross-curricular learning platform that includes a one year subscription to the MyStemKits website as well as a two-hour online training course ($200 value). Both are accessible via a user code included with the device.
The website contains 31 standards-aligned lesson plans to utilize the devices onboard sensors for ambient temperature/external temperature, distance, light, sound level, and voltage. With these I am able to run science experiments, log and analyze data, create custom animations and music, as well as program it to provide output based on sensor readings.
The software and resources provided me with plenty of ideas and support for designing engaging lesson plans.
Xploris: Best Features
- Portability: This is a compact device that is easily recharged. The fun 16 x 16 pixel LED dot matrix display is clear and bright, allowing it to be easily used both indoors and out.
- Interdisciplinary Learning: Xploris seamlessly integrates science, data collection, coding, art, and control, allowing students to explore complex STEAM concepts in a cohesive manner.
- Sensor Suite: The Xploris’s five built-in sensors (light, temperature, sound, distance, and voltage) allow students to conduct a variety of experiments and collect real-time data.
- Coding: Xploris’s compatibility with Blockly and Python coding languages gives students the ability to to code animations and music.
- Software Platform: The Xplorilab can be used independent of software but the Xplorilab software is a very powerful and user-friendly solution that looks great on a computer screen as well as an interactive whiteboard.
Xploris: Key Specifications
- Auto-calibrated
- USB 2.0 and BLE 4.2 connectivity
- 150-hour battery life (with screen off), 8 hours (screen on)
- Servo outputs allow controlling small servos
- Image-based readings to enhance understanding
- Remote data collection.
- 100 samples/second max speed.
- 100,000 samples memory size
- 30 animations or 1,800 still image memory size
- 16 x 16 pixel LED dot matrix display
- Rechargeable LiPO 3.7V battery
- Windows 11, Android, iOS compatibility
Xploris: Pricing
The Xploris STEAM are generally sold in bundles and have educational pricing. Education pricing is around $2,900 for a bundle. Refer to the Xploris for reseller information and pricing details.
Xploris: Key Takeaways
The Xploris is a comprehensive solution offering integration between STEAM subjects, making it a valuable tool for educators looking to provide a cross-curricular learning experience. The Xploris device is very user-friendly, allowing educators and students to focus on teaching and learning rather than learning how to use the technology.
The Xploris is also cost effective since it combines multiple tools into one device, which could help schools reduce overall costs of a STEAM program’s equipment.
The device can stand-alone by itself, but the additional software and lesson platforms give educators the flexibility to create lessons that encourage creativity and engagement through interactive hands-on projects.
Ultimately, this is a solution with the features that will definitely improve students' interest and learning in STEAM related subjects.
