Software & Online
Aerohive StudentManager
(www.aerohive.com)
Aerohive’s new StudentManager WLAN monitoring and reporting system includes TeacherView, a student monitoring and access control system. With TeacherView, educators gain at-a-glance visibility into student connectivity without having to walk around the classroom. This solution also provides a suite of features including student information system integration, lesson planning, and CIO-level reporting for classes, schools, and districts.
Alive Studios
(www.alivestudiosco.com)
Cynthia Kaye, former CEO of Logical Choice Technologies, has launched Alive Studios, Inc., a company that introduces augmented reality to young students. Alive Studios is now the sole developer and supporter of the former Logical Choice flagship products: Letters alive, Math alive, and Storybooks alive. Letters alive is a supplemental reading curriculum that’s aligned to the Common Core State Standards for Pre-K and Kindergarten classrooms, as well as early childhood reading within grades 1–5 for ESL students, RTI students, and students with special needs. Math alive offers lessons and activities on tablet devices that are mapped to Common Core State Standards and that help develop critical learning skills for Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 1st Grade. Storybooks alive engages kids through digital interactive storybooks, which students can read to themselves or aloud. Children can interact with the pages of the digital book with the same animals that are in Letters alive and Math alive.
AT&T Aspire
(www.att.com)
AT&T Aspire is AT&T’s education initiative, focusing on school success and workforce readiness. The company has invested over $94.6 million throughout the past two years as part of a $350 million commitment. Employees are also mentoring students at risk of dropping out, through the Aspire Mentoring Academy. The company is on track to meet the goal of one million hours of mentoring through the end of 2016.
Adobe Creative Cloud
(www.adobe.com)
Adobe has released 14 new versions of Creative Cloud desktop applications, including updates for Photoshop CC, Illustrator CC, and Premiere Pro CC. Adobe has also launched three new free mobile apps for iPad – Adobe Sketch, Adobe Line, and Adobe Photoshop Mix – and began shipping two new creative hardware tools called Adobe Ink, a new digital pen, and Adobe Slide, a new digital ruler. In addition to the new product announcements, now schools and universities can provide access to Creative Cloud with new and existing purchasing options that ensure coverage regardless of deployment requirements.
Atomic Learning Tools
Atomic Learning has released several new site features and tools, including search by standards, Career Skills training, and Skills Assessment. The company has updated its search by standards feature to ensure all the digital content is aligned to current standards. From how-to training to in-depth workshops and classroom projects, educators can search by ISTE, state, or Common Core standards. The Career Skills training series helps educators and students learn soft skills such as Decision Making, Effective Listening, and Navigating Relational Conflict. Skills Assessments are available on Atomic Learning’s training tutorials, including Computer Literacy Basics and Microsoft Word.
Barracuda MDM
(www.barracuda.com)
Barracuda Networks, Inc. has launched the Barracuda Mobile Device Manager (MDM), a free cloud-based mobile device and application management service. The tool helps K-12 institutions manage 1:1 mobility initiatives by centrally administering and monitoring iOS mobile phones and tablets. The Barracuda MDM integrates with a range of Barracuda solutions and is accessed in the Barracuda Cloud Control. Using the service, administrators can set device security policies, including revoke access and device restrictions such as passcode policies and global proxy settings. The Barracuda Web Filter version 8.0 announcement followed the release of Barracuda MDM, extending support to Chromebooks, Wireless Access Point (WAP) Integration and customizable dashboards, to further extend the company’s support of mobility initiatives for K-12 organizations.
Classworks and Scantron
(www.classworks.com)
Curriculum Advantage, Inc., developer of Classworks, has teamed up with Scantron to integrate Classworks with Scantron Performance Series and Scantron Achievement Series assessment solutions. Performance Series provides ongoing, relevant information in reading, language arts, mathematics, and life sciences. Achievement Series utilizes a range of delivery methods, including mobile, online or paper, to administer tests and analyze reports that show performance at all levels. Classworks integrates with both of the Scantron solutions, taking the assessment data provided on individual students to create customized assignments. Classworks provides individualized plans to strengthen comprehension.
Copia and the Utah OER Program
(www.copia.edu.com)
Copia Interactive, creators of the digital learning platform Copia, is partnering with Utah’s State Office of Education to pilot a digitally delivered platform for a statewide Open Educational Resources (OER) program focused on state-created science content. The OER program includes standard-aligned science content for grades 3-12, and will initially enable the delivery of Utah’s science content for middle school within an environment that offers a library of content sources from primary and supplementary providers along with interactive digital classroom resources.
D-Link Managed Switches
(www.dlink.com)
D-Link has announced an expanded evaluation program to give customers access to D-Link managed switches, WLAN, and storage solutions prior to purchase. The program enables customers to apply online to receive products for integrating into their network environments for testing. The company has also launched a blog that reviews the D-Link solutions and offers helpful resources.
EasyTech
(www.learning.com)
Learning.com has announced updates to EasyTech, a digital literacy curriculum that helps students develop technology skills while they study core subjects. The updates include new technology pre-tests for Next-Generation Assessments, 11 new lessons, and enhancements to over half of the current lessons.
Edgenuity Algebra 1 Course
(www.edgenuity.com)
Edgenuity has released its new Algebra 1 course, which is aligned to college and career readiness standards and incorporates data and feedback from the educators and students who use Edgenuity. On-screen teachers model problem-solving by thinking aloud, allowing students to understand how experts think about mathematics. Lessons include a guiding question to promote inquiry and focus on big ideas. The course features graphics, charts, diagrams, animations, and simulations to help students visualize the content.
Edulastic
(www.edulastic.com)
Snapwiz has released Edulastic, a free, Web-based formative assessment platform that helps teachers prepare effective Common Core curricula by improving the assessment creation, assignment, and grading processes. Edulastic offers homework solutions and daily assessments for evaluating and supporting student mastery of Common Core standards, and enables teachers to create standards-aligned formative assessments with interactive, freeform question items defined by Smarter Balanced & PARCC.
Edmentum
Edmentum made the following announcements at ISTE: A streamlined learner experience that enables students to manage assignments and view their progress in Plato Courseware, Edmentum Assessments, and EdOptions Academy; An enhanced EducationCity user experience for teachers and students; New secondary math and English language arts courses; and a new set of interactive educational games in Study Island to help teachers keep students motivated as they work toward mastering their specific state standards.
ExamView Cloud
(www.einstruction.com)
eInstruction by Turning Technologies has announced its new platform, ExamView Cloud, for early 2015. The cloud-based platform is designed for assessment authoring, management, and delivery. ExamView Cloud can be used in conjunction with the ExamView Assessment Suite desktop version, for the ability to create, manage, and assess in both online and offline environments. In addition to traditional questions, ExamView Cloud will support technology-enhanced items and multi-part questions, and is QTI-compliant.
Fast ForWord
(www.scilearn.com)
Scientific Learning Corp. has announced a shorter three-day protocol to help preK-12 schools offer the Fast ForWord language, literacy, and reading intervention program to more students, on fewer days per week. Fast ForWord was developed by neuroscientists to address foundational language and literacy skills, while developing memory, attention, processing, and sequencing skills. The three-day, 30- and 50-minute protocols for the Fast ForWord program provide more implementation flexibility compared to the standard five-day, 30-minute protocol. This fall, Fast ForWord will also be available as an iPad app.
Follett and McGraw-Hill
(www.follettlearning.com)
McGraw-Hill has partnered with Follett to expand availability of its ebook collection to K-12 school library customers globally. McGraw-Hill Professional offers over 4,500 new and backlist ebooks, including several collections of student test prep and study aids: 5 Steps to a 5 AP test prep series, the Demystified series, and Practice Makes Perfect foreign language series. Follett customers can access all print and digital content within Destiny Library Manager, the school library management solution. Destiny features Follett’s Universal Search, which lets students access content from one system. Ebooks are also available through Follett Shelf, the company’s virtual bookshelf.
Gaggle and Microsoft OneDrive
(www.gaggle.net)
Gaggle now offers integration with Microsoft OneDrive, providing school districts using Office 365 an added layer of safety with Gaggle’s filtering and Human Monitoring Service. In addition, school districts that use Gaggle for email archiving can now choose to archive Office Online documents. Teachers and students using Gaggle’s Collaboration Tools can create, edit, and share Office Online documents within Gaggle’s Digital Lockers and Assignments (formerly Assignment Drop Boxes). Gaggle also plans to integrate Yammer, Microsoft’s enterprise social network, and Microsoft Lync, its video conferencing and instant messaging service, during the 2014-15 school year.
Gale Digital Collections
(www.gale.cengage.com)
Gale, part of Cengage Learning, has added 10 resources to its Gale Digital Collections program, including new periodical collections and the next installments of Smithsonian Collections Online, Nineteenth Century Collections Online, and The Chatham House Online Archive. These collections will be available on the Gale Artemis: Primary Sources platform, giving researchers access to graphing and search visualization tools to explore content in new ways.
Habits of Mind Instructional Animations
(www.habitsofmind.org)
The Institute for Habits of Mind and WonderGrove Learn have launched a series of instructional animations based on the 16 Habits of Mind, developed by Drs. Art Costa and Bena Kallick. The teaching and parenting tool emphasizes creative and critical thinking for success in school and life. The Habits of Mind Instructional Animations aim to help children build character and dispositions for learning. Each instructional animation includes 20 related extension lessons that teachers, educators, and parents can use to reinforce the Habits of Mind. All materials are available in both English and Spanish.
Hooda Math Manipulatives
(www.hoodamath.com)
Hooda Math has released five online math manipulatives that are compatible with any device. Base Ten Blocks, Number Line Integer Addition, Hundreds Chart, Algebra Tiles, and Algebra Balance Equations are all built using HTML5 code, so students can access the free manipulatives on a smartphone, tablet, or desktop computer. The math manipulatives currently available on Hooda Math’s Web site cover every grade level in K-12 and can help students prepare for the transition to Common Core State Standards. The company plans to release a full set of math manipulatives by the start of the 2014-15 school year.
ImageQuest
(www.britannica.com)
Britannica Digital Learning has upgraded ImageQuest, a resource for schools and libraries that provides nearly three million rights-cleared photos and other images for homework, classroom activities, and lesson plans, from sources such as Getty Images and the National Geographic Society. The newly released ImageQuest includes a host of features to facilitate finding and working with images. These include new filtering mechanisms for refining a search, the ability to enlarge images, features for searching and working with multiple images at once, prepared image albums on popular topics, and project ideas for teachers.
Insight ON: Education
(www.insight.com)
Insight Enterprises, Inc. has launched Insight ON: Education, a news and digital information resource that focuses on the use of technology to improve teaching and learning. Through Insight ON: Education, educators can learn how technology is introduced and used in the classroom. The resources helps administrators create a digital strategy, from building networks that can support high bandwidth requirements to choosing the right mobile devices and laptops to meet students’ needs.
Kajeet SmartSpot
(www.kajeet.com/education)
Kajeet has introduced its SmartSpot solution, eligible for purchase using Title I funds. The mobile broadband solution provides students with online access to educational resources outside of school. Schools can fully customize and filter the Web sites that students can visit, as well as the times of day or night deemed appropriate for student use. Teachers and administrators can filter out non-educational content, keeping students on task. The solution includes reports with learning analytics, designed to help improve student progress.
LearnZillion Premium
(www.learnzillion.com)
LearnZillion, a digital curriculum and professional learning platform that supports teachers in transitioning to the Common Core, has introduced LearnZillion Premium, an alternative to traditional curriculum and professional development. LearnZillion Premium provides math teachers in grades 2-12 with complete curricular resources, including task-based lesson plans, practice problems, exit tickets, and differentiation support. English language arts (ELA), social studies, and science teachers can use both a modular, close reading/writing program and WriteAlong, a video-based writing intervention program.
Lightspeed Systems Mobile Manager
(www.lightspeedsystems.com)
Lightspeed Systems’s Mobile Manager provides schools with a solution to roll out, manage, and implement mobile devices, delivering cross-platform policy controls, app deployment, and reporting. The solution supports iOS, MacOS, Android, Windows 8, and Windows 8.1. New features for Mobile Manager for Windows 8.1 include Student Information System (SIS) integration, Bluetooth control, device restrictions and status updates, parental controls, and Wi-Fi and VPN provisioning.
LinkFixer Advanced
(www.linkfixer.com)
LinkTek Corporation’s LinkFixer Advanced automatically finds and fixes broken file links in an organization’s most critical file types, so that data migrations and file system reorganizations can be completed quickly and accurately, without the loss of data caused by broken file links. LinkFixer Advanced consists of several automated functions that identify, preserve, maintain and repair links. The software supports the world’s most common file types, including Microsoft Office Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint and Visio, as well as Windows Shortcuts, Adobe Acrobat, InDesign, AutoCAD, and MicroStation, to name a few.
MindShine Student Risk Assessment System
(www.mindshine.com)
MindShine has introduced the Student Risk Assessment System, a Web-based data system that helps K-12 districts identify students with multiple risk factors for dropping out, so they can take action early. The system, which can be implemented with students of any age, also allows districts to track and analyze the impact of their actions.
Mirroring360
(www.splashtop.com)
Splashtop Inc. has announced Mirroring360, enabling teachers to share their iPad or iPhone screen without the need for cables or an Apple TV device. Once installed, Mirroring360 acts as an Airplay receiver on a computer. Students simply select the teacher’s computer from the Airplay menu to mirror their screen. Teachers can also share their screen with the class. Combined with Splashtop Classroom, teachers can share their screens across computers, iPads/iPhones, Android devices and Chromebooks.
myON Literacy Tools
(www.myon.com)
myON is expanding its digital literacy platform to include a set of tools to further personalize the reading experience for students, while improving instructional capabilities for teachers. These literacy tools support myON’s existing digital collection of over 7,000 digital books with multimedia resources. The first set of literacy tools to be released includes tools to support close reading. Students can use embedded tools in all myON digital books to practice close reading skills like highlighting and note-taking.
Net Texts Discussion Forum
(www.net-texts.com)
Net Texts today has added a Discussions forum to its free, Web-based system that provides teachers with access to a library of high-quality, open educational resources (OER), which they can then combine with their own resources to create and publish lessons directly to students’ iPads, Android tablets, or computers. Through the forum, teachers can share OER, as well as follow discussion threads to hone their expertise in a particular area, or pose questions within the online community. The company has also released a new Chrome extension that allows teachers to download courses and units to their Chromebooks — or to any computer, tablet, or mobile device — and then use them without further Wi-Fi access.
Odysseyware
(www.odysseyware.com)
Odysseyware has launched its largest combination of new courses and learning resources to date. The content includes a full math and ELA Common Core curriculum for high school and middle school students, as well as six new high school Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses to help students prepare for post-graduation life. Odysseyware has also released test prep courses that help high school students prepare for the ACT, GED, HiSET, and TASC with prescriptive learning pathways to college readiness, including embedded assessments and practice tests. Additionally, students can access a blended learning video library, comprising over 250 Direct Instruction Videos that provide step-by-step guidance to help students learn at their own pace and accommodate diverse learning styles.
OnCourse SGO
(www.oncoursesystems.com)
OnCourse Systems for Education LLC, a provider of Web-based K-12 software, has announced OnCourse SGO (Student Growth Objectives), offering a staff-friendly dashboard, instant auto-scoring, and simpler submission of artifacts and results. OnCourse now offers a full staff evaluation package, through the integration of OnCourse Evaluate with OnCourse SGO.
OpenEd Assessment Creation Tool
(www.opened.io)
OpenEd has announced a free tool that lets teachers easily create assessments with the question types required by Common Core standards. The assessment creation tool enables educators to create tests consisting of their own questions or questions from OpenEd’s recommendation engine. The assessment tool supports a variety of question types, including Multiple Choice, True or False, Multiple Response, Free Response, and Composite Items. With the tool, teachers can associate resources with individual questions. If a student misses a question, OpenEd automatically recommends resources such as videos or games for review.
Paragon Backup & Recovery 2014 Free Edition
(www.paragon-software.com/home/br-free/index.html)
Paragon Software Group has updated its Paragon Backup & Recovery 2014 Free software. The newest release has been enhanced with a WinPE boot media builder, allowing PC users to prepare either Linux or WinPE-based bootable environments. Paragon Backup & Recovery 2014 Free runs on schedule so that files are regularly backed up, and provides the option of saving space and time by only backing up data that has changed. Backups can be made to a hard disk, to the network, or to an optical drive.
Pathblazer
(www.compasslearning.com)
Compass Learning has launched a suite of new solutions that focus on blended learning, intervention, and credit recovery. The suite includes Pathblazer, a reading and math intervention program for elementary and middle school students. Pathblazer pinpoints specific areas of student need and prescribes individualized learning paths and an individualized acceleration plan to speed struggling students back up to grade-level proficiency.
Pearson GradPoint and PowerSchool
(www.pearsonschool.com)
Pearson has announced the integration of its GradPoint and PowerSchool applications, allowing customers to synch course and student data. The combined GradPoint- PowerSchool application automates data-sharing, enabling teachers to spend less time manually setting up courses and updating record systems, reducing duplicative processes. Access is simplified through a single sign-on system, open to administrators, teachers, students, and parents.
PLEx Science
(www.filamentgames.com)
Filament Learning has released a collection of game-based curricula, the PLEx (play, learn, experiment) Science series. The games provide interactive lab exercises that allow students to explore complex science subjects in greater detail. PLEx also offers teacher tools to review student performance, such as warm-up discussions, end-of-lesson activities, and assessments.
PresenceLearning Counseling
(www.presencelearning.com)
To expand school districts’ access to licensed mental health professionals, PresenceLearning now offers live, online counseling services. The resource enables schools to match students with the right counselor for their needs, from behavior intervention to cognitive-behavioral support or substance abuse counseling. Online therapists work with students on how to cope with feelings, reduce stress, get along with their peers, and boost academic performance. PresenceLearning’s secure videoconferencing platform includes a rich library of activities and interactive resources, and lets counselors store notes and progress data.
Rand McNally World Atlas
(www.randmcnally.com)
Rand McNally has launched a new online educational tool for World Atlas that allows educators to annotate and share maps. The tool lets teachers access historical maps, boundaries, and demographics on present-day maps, create custom maps, and easily share maps with students, teachers, and other classes. Additionally, teachers can print out a fully populated or outline map of any place in the world.
Read&Write Gold for Mac 6
(www.texthelp.com)
Texthelp has released the latest version of Read&Write Gold, the customizable toolbar that integrates with common applications and provides support tools to users of all ages and abilities. Enhancements include a redesigned toolbar, improved phonetic spell checker, word prediction, and Daisy Reader features. New capabilities include a PDF Aloud feature, support for Chrome and Firefox, and support for Google Docs.
Robots4Autism
(www.robots4autism.com)
RoboKind has announced Robots4Autism, an autism therapy curriculum that’s delivered by a humanoid robot and is purpose-built for autism intervention. Autism experts from the University of Texas at Dallas partnered with RoboKind engineers to build the program. Compared to traditional therapy, the curriculum is more approachable for children on the autism spectrum due to their mechanical interests.
SAFARI Montage Learning Object Repository
(www.safarimontage.com)
SAFARI Montage has teamed up with Knovation to offer Federated Search access to over 360,000 educator-curated, standards-aligned digital learning resources through the SAFARI Montage Learning Object Repository (LOR). This integration gives SAFARI Montage LOR customers one-click access from their Dashboard Portal to their netTrekker account via an LTI Single Sign-On (SSO) feature. In addition, keyword searches from SAFARI Montage will be able to search netTrekker’s industry-leading learning resource library, and the results will appear on a new netTrekker search results tab in the LOR. SAFARI Montage users will also have the ability to save netTrekker search results, including Web site thumbnails and grade ranges, in SAFARI Montage CreationStation for easy future access via their playlists and lessons.
Samsung School
(www.samsung.com)
Samsung has announced updates to Samsung School, the fully integrated one-to-one learning solution. Designed to be more intuitive and participatory, the solution combines Samsung Galaxy tablets, large-format classroom displays, and other technology with an interactive management software to create a student-centric learning environment. The latest version (Samsung School v1.5.6) will be compatible with the new Galaxy Tab 4 Education, the tablet designed to support one-to-one learning and adoption of Google Play for Education.
Snapshot
(www.snapshot.edmodo.com)
Edmodo, the free K-12 social learning network, has released Snapshot, a frequent formative assessment tool designed to provide real-time insight into student proficiency in educational standards and help teachers address learning gaps. Built directly into the Edmodo platform, Snapshot is customized for both teachers and administrators with functionality aimed at improving student learning outcomes. It currently features Common Core and a range of other U.S. state standards.
SPARKvue
(www.pasco.com/sparkvue)
PASCO scientific has released SPARKvue, a science learning application that combines content, data collection, visualization, analysis, and assessment into one online environment. Students and teachers can easily share data and collaborate on lab activities in real time. The solution allows educators and students to connect sensors and collect data on Chromebooks. SPARKvue also supports iPad and Android tablets, netbooks, and Windows and Mac computers. SPARKvue includes assessment and journaling features, as well as access to 70+ free SPARKlabs.
STEMcoach.com
(www.stemcoach.com)
Accelerate Learning has launched a free, professional development site, STEMcoach.com. Designed for preK-12 science teachers, coordinators, and supervisors, the site provides easy access to an array of resources to support educators in STEM classes. STEMcoach.com offers ready-made lessons, including a teacher guide, question prompts, student guide, and student journal. Teachers can also access instructional practice tips as well as videos featuring STEM professionals talking about the skills students need to pursue STEM careers.
Teacher Dashboard for Google Apps
(www.hapara.com)
Hapara Inc.’s Teacher Dashboard for Google Apps organizes the Google Apps environment by class, by application, and then by student. Educators see dashboards of activity in Drive, Gmail, Sites, Blogger, and Google Plus. Hapara Interact provides educators with real-time views of student browser activity in Chrome on any machine. Whether students use iPads, Android tablets, desktop computers, laptops, or mobile phones to do their Google Apps work, Hapara tools offer management capability and insight into student efforts.
ThingLink
(www.video.thinglink.com)
ThingLink, an interactive image network, has launched a new editor for annotating videos with notes and media. Now users can add notes and links to existing video content. Interactive video contains embedded, user-clickable areas, allowing navigation between video and other hypermedia elements. Viewers can choose to explore links or turn them off.
UNIFY
(www.performancematters.com)
Performance Matters has released UNIFY, a next generation assessment platform that enables educators to collaborate and build assessments that are aligned to all standards. The platform makes the process of creating assessments affordable for districts, since they can pool their resources and share high-quality assessment content.
Waggle
(www.triumphlearning.com)
Triumph Learning has launched Waggle, an online learning platform that generates a smart practice environment to help students in grades 3-8 prepare for assessments. The learning system offers Common Core and state standards-aligned content in English language arts and math, and is fully integrated with Triumph Learning’s Coach resources. The platform is powered by Knewton’s adaptive learning engine, which analyzes what students know and how they learn best. It can then recommend what to study next in Waggle, personalizing the learning path for each student.
Wasp MobileAsset
(www.waspbarcode.com)
Wasp Barcode Technologies has released MobileAsset v7 and MobileAsset.EDU. MobileAsset, designed for IT departments, and MobileAsset.EDU, designed for K-12 and higher education institutions, simplifies the reporting process for grant-funded operations. MobileAsset v7 features an easy-to-use, customizable dashboard, along with iOS and Android compatibility, to simplify tracking and locating a school’s assets.
Apps
AirWatch Teacher Tools
(www.air-watch.com)
AirWatch by VMware has upgraded its Teacher Tools application with a redesigned interface and additional functionality. As part of AirWatch for Education, AirWatch Teacher Tools enables educational institutions to extend the real-time management capabilities from IT administrators to teachers. New features include simpler student registration, the option to create and dismiss classes, and the ability to facilitate communication between students and educators during instruction.
Blackboard K-12 Central
(www.blackboard.com)
Blackboard has unveiled a comprehensive mobile communications solution that offers K-12 schools a more unified approach to community engagement. K-12 Central combines Web site data, mass notification technology, and third party feeds into a custom-branded app that gives parents access to school, district, and student information. Parents can see lunch menus, attendance reports, and homework assignments, all within a central tool. Information and updates usually found on a district’s Web site, emails, or calls can be accessed and made available in a single app across multiple devices.
Bretford PowerSync+ App
(www.bretford.com)
Bretford Manufacturing, Inc. has announced the availability of the companion app for its PowerSync+ enabled charge and sync products. The PowerSync product line includes 40- and 20-unit carts and a 20- unit station, app-enabled charge and sync products designed specifically for the iPad and iPad mini. The PowerSync+ app works to display remote status for all connected iOS devices by showing which devices are fully charged and which devices need more time. It also allows users to check on their progress when preparing devices using Apple Configurator.
HMH Player
(www.hmhco.com)
HMH has released HMH Player, a new native app for iOS and Google Chrome that streamlines the learning experience for improved digital instruction and collaboration. The app bridges classroom-based and informal learning environments by providing flexibility, mobility and personalized learning experiences both on and offline.
Lexia Reading Core5
(www.lexialearning.com)
Lexia Reading Core5, the pre-K–5 technology-based reading program, is now available as an Android app. The reading program accelerates fundamental literacy skills development through personalized learning paths, with scaffolding and instruction for additional support. Each of the age-appropriate, skill-specific activities conforms to the CCSS. In addition, the program includes Lexia’s Assessment Without Testing technology, which gathers student performance data without administering a test.
Nervanix Clarity
(www.nervanix.com)
Nervanix has released Clarity, an application that monitors student attention levels as they study and guides them to revisit concepts or content areas where they lost focus. Using a simple and safe EEG headset, Nervanix Clarity measures the attention levels of learners as they study and paces along with them as they navigate a page, watch a video, listen to a recording, or interact with a digital manipulative. The device uses Bluetooth technology to stream the attention data it records to the Nervanix Clarity application. Students can then use this information to adapt their study habits in order to effectively focus on material and improve their study sessions.
NetSupport School Student App for Android
(www.netsupportschool.com)
NetSupport has announced new developments to its multi-platform compatible classroom management solution, NetSupport School, including updates to the Student app for Android tablets. NetSupport School helps teachers control the classroom using computer-led instruction through a mix of technology, supporting Mac, Linux, Chromebook, and both Android and Apple iOS tablets. The latest update to its Student app for Android tablets and Kindle fire introduces more of the product’s core classroom management tools – the Question and Answer module, File Transfer, and further screen monitoring support.
Hardware
Mac to School (www.mactoschool.com) now offers refurbished MacBooks that are Common Core-ready, helping school districts meet technology requirements to support the CCSS. The technology requirements for Common Core assessments, as laid out by PARCC and Smarter Balanced, require devices to have a minimum of 1 GB of RAM, as well as the ability to run iOS operating systems 10.4 (Smarter Balanced) or 10.6 (PARCC).
Opticomm-EMCORE (www.opticomm.com) has launched the Genesis XD (GXD), an allin- one multimedia matrix solution that converts, scales, switches, and distributes video, audio, and data for small-to-large connectivity applications. GXD can utilize existing copper and IP infrastructure for video conferencing in classrooms, and then convert these and other signals for long-distance transport over fiber, for distribution of seminars, surveillance video, and broadcast journalism programs throughout a campus or regional district. GXD accepts and converts both analog and digital signals, including HDMI 1.4b with HDCP, Display Port, DVI, VGA, Component, and 3G HD-SDI. Remote locations can be connected via single-mode and multi-mode fiber up to six miles, as well as CATx/HDBaseT or IP/Ethernet up to 300 feet.
Brother International Corporation (www.brother-usa.com) has introduced the HL-L9200CDWT laser printer and MFC-L9550CDW (shown) laser all-in-one, compact machines designed to meet the higher-volume, color printing demands of institutions. Both models ship with a super high-yield black toner cartridge that offers a low cost per page of just 2 cents, as well as super high-yield color toner cartridges that provide a low 7.5 cent color cost per page, which is up to 50% less than comparable color laser models. The machines include Brother’s Web Connect Interface to allow users to print from cloud services, including DropBox and Google Drive. The MFCL9550CDW also scans to EverNote and Microsoft OneNote.
InFocus Corporation (www.infocus.com) has added an 80-inch 1080p HD Mondopad to its family of large-format touchscreen conference room tablets. Mondopad enables users to collaborate and present with colleagues across the globe, with its video conferencing capabilities, sharable interactive whiteboard, annotatable browser, and network connectivity. Additionally, the Mondopad can communicate with all other Session Initiation Protocol-enabled (SIP) and H.323 devices, such as video conferencing systems or videophones, regardless of make or model.
Data analytics firm metacog (www.metacog.com) has introduced an advanced analytics API that measures learners’ metacognitive processes during instruction and assessment. The metacog API toolkit shows the thought processes that learners display during interactions with digital performance-based lessons and assessments. The metacog toolkit is an Internet-scale data platform implemented in the cloud to handle real-time data from tens of millions of sessions generated by instrumented interactives, including online simulations, games, virtual labs, ebooks, and assessments.
FrontRow (www.gofrontrow.com) has released a new version of its Juno classroom sound line, Juno Connect. The system lets teachers use voice commands to control projectors and other devices, record and post screen capture videos, and initiate and answer intercom calls, all without a computer. The new network module routes paging and intercom conversations through the Juno Tower, making them more intelligible.
HP (www.hp.com) has announced its next-generation PC portfolio for back-to-school, including two new 360-degree convertible PCs, the HP ENVY x360 and the HP Pavilion x360, both of which let users switch easily from a notebook to a stand, tent, or tablet. HP also announced a detachable PC, the HP Split x2, which enables users to shift effortlessly from work to play by combining tablet portability with notebook productivity in a sleek, lightweight device. Additionally, HP’s new Chromebook (pictured) introduces new colors and designs, while the new Android-based notebook makes Android apps available in a clamshell design.
Acer (www.acer.com) has released the C205 ultraportable pico projector, offering 4W audio via two 2W built-in speakers and 200 ANSI lumens brightness. Weighing in at slightly over half a pound, the projector fits in the palm of the hand and is battery-operated (up to two hours of usage). MHL connectivity enables projection and battery charging by smartphone. The user can also wirelessly connect the projector to a mobile device that supports Miracast Wi-Fi Display, WiDi Wireless Display, or DNLA.
AVer Information (www.averusa.com), a provider of network IP surveillance cameras for K-12 and Higher Education, has announced full camera integration with Video Insight’s video management software. Specific features designed to enhance campus security and surveillance built within AVer IP Cameras can now be easily accessed and used through Video Insight software. AVer offers a full line of IP68 weather and IK10 vandal-rated outdoor, indoor, dome, bullet, and box camera solutions to accommodate every area on campus. With remote access through any Web-enabled device, administrators and other authorized personnel have instant access to surveillance.
Epson (www.epson.com/projectors) has expanded its PowerLite 1900-series projector line with three new models. Designed for boardrooms and lecture halls, the new PowerLite 1975W, 1980WU and 1985WU provide a wide range of connectivity options and up to WUXGA resolution with native full HD 1080p support. Epson has also announced its new BrightLink Pro Series, designed for meeting rooms and classrooms. The BrightLink Pro 1430Wi and 1420Wi transform any flat surface into digital whiteboards and interactive spaces through built-in tools that don’t require a computer. The new series features a Whiteboard Sharing Tool that allows up to 15 participants to join a whiteboarding session directly from any mobile device with a Web browser or from another BrightLink Pro.
Vernier Software & Technology (www.vernier.com) has released a microscope designed to be used with mobile devices in science education. The ProScope Micro Mobile Microscope is appropriate for use across various science disciplines at all grade levels, and is compatible with iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, iPad mini, and Galaxy S4 devices. When connected to a device, the microscope allows students to view a range of materials at up to 80x magnification, displaying the image on the mobile device screen.
Konica Minolta (www.konicaminolta.com) has announced updates to the Dispatcher Phoenix family of workflow automation product offerings, which include an industry-specific version for the Education market. Dispatcher Phoenix Release 4.0 allows users to scan and upload files to leading cloud storage service providers such as DropBox and Microsoft OneDrive. Additional new features include advanced forms processing and PDF data extraction. By scanning and distributing documents to various locations, educators can quickly move files to network and desktop folders and email recipients, FTP servers, Microsoft SharePoint libraries, and more.
Califone (www.califone.com) has launched the 901 Wireless Headphone, which facilitates student listening activities on computers, tablets, and mobile devices. The 901 is adjustable, communal, and offers multiple listening options. Students can access audio by plugging a wired headphone into the 901, and an unlimited number can listen to a single transmitter within a 20-foot range. Listening options include FM, wireless transmission, and digital audio from a microSD card.
BenQ (www.benq.us) has released the 70-inch RP700+ interactive flat panel, featuring multi-touch technology to enable students and teachers to pan, zoom, and scroll directly on the screen. The panel also features anti-glare glass to reduce reflection and eliminate visual noise, in addition to a low blue light mode to prevent eye fatigue. The RP700+ can be used with Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chrome OS.
AmpliVox Sound Systems (www.ampli.com) has released a new, two-module configuration of its popular Line Array Soundbar system, offering high sound quality in a compact, user-friendly package. With the two-piece design of the Duo Tandem Line Array Soundbar, presenters can position the rack-mounted speaker module of the system to face the audience and also position the amplifier module with its controls at the presenter’s fingertips. The system can be fully integrated with multimedia presentation carts and lecterns.
PolyVision (www.polyvision.com) has introduced a new premium surface, PolyVision e3 CeramicSteel duo. Optimized for projection and dry erasability, the surface reduces glare and helps address visual fatigue in students and teachers. PolyVision e3 CeramicSteel duo supports both digital and analog instruction. Educators are able to project and write on the surface without the need to block natural light.
Mimio (www.mimio.com) has released the MimioDisplay LED touch display, part of the MimioClassroom family of interactive learning technologies. The high-definition visual display eliminates the need for a separate interactive whiteboard, projector, and speakers, allowing students to work together interactively. The MimioDisplay touch display is available in 55”, 65”, 70”, and 84” models, and features a low-glare and low-friction glass surface. The display includes a MimioStudio classroom software license, so that educators can create and deliver lessons and activities on the display. The MimioDisplay touch display also comes with a power cord, VGA cable, USB cable, HDMI cable, stereo audio cable, remote, and two pens. The company is also offering a one-year classroom license to MimioMobile for every MimioDisplay purchased, effective through 9/30/14.
Hitachi America (www.hitachi-america.us) has introduced the CP-AX2503, CP-AX3503, CP-AW2503, and CP-AW3003 Ultra Short Throw 3LCD projectors that offer improved image quality, flexible connectivity including powered focus, and wireless networking. The CP-AX2503 and CP-AW2503 deliver 2,700 color and white light ouput with XGA and WXGA resolution, respectively, while the CP-AX3503 and CP-AW3003 offer 3,300 and 3,600 color and white light output with XGA and WXGA resolution, respectively. All four models can be used in tabletop mode or mounted on the wall. The projectors include two HDMI inputs, two computer HD-15 inputs, three USB inputs for use with a USB memory stick, wireless adapter or mouse, plus component, composite video, audio, and mic A/V jacks.
AVID (www.educationalheadphone.com) has released headsets designed to prepare students for testtaking under the CCS guidelines. All headsets are rugged, class-ready, and student-friendly, and are equipped with 3.5mm to USB plugs. Many of them come in space-saving storage cases that minimize mishandling and breakage.
AT&T (www.att.com) and Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise have teamed up to create a “Connected Bus” solution that helps K-12 school districts deliver affordable learning experiences and other capabilities to students, teachers, and bus drivers across their school transportation system. Connected Bus uses wireless technology, AT&T’s 4G LTE network, and devices to increase students’ access to information. With onboard Wi-Fi, students can access the Internet on their own devices. Connected Bus offers realtime streaming video and broadcast speakers, enabling schools to deliver individual or district-wide broadcast announcements. The solution also allows remote monitoring of driver and student behavior to limit the potential for accidents and bullying.
Intel (http://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/education/solutions/technology-toclassroom.html) has teamed up with Panasonic (http://www.panasonic.com/business/3e/3e-2-in-1-education-solution.asp) to announce the Panasonic 3E, the first product to market using the Intel Education 2 in 1 reference design. Designed for active learning, the Panasonic 3E is a tablet that comes with a detachable keyboard to deliver laptop capabilities. It ships with a software bundle of K-12 applications, along with a thermometer probe, on-board cameras, and an addon lens for hands-on learning in science and mathematics.
Roland Systems Group (RSG) will be giving away a Roland VR-3EX, an all-in-one mixer designed to simplify the ways that educators produce media and record or Web-stream their school content. The portable, battery, or AC-powered AV mixer incorporates a video switcher, audio mixer, preview monitors, and streaming-ready USB output in a single unit. Equipped with four video inputs, 18-channel audio mixer, and transition and keying effects, the switcher can be used in any venue with existing video cameras or PA equipment around campus.
Califone International, Inc. (www.califone.com) has announced updates to its wired PresentationPro speaker, the PA310. The PresentationPro readily connects with computers, LCD projectors, mobile devices, interactive whiteboards, and other audio sources. An additional 3.5mm input has been added to its dual RCA ports, to easily store or stream audio from smartphones and other devices. The redesigned remote for controlling the volume can now also power the speaker on or off. The remote has a 20-foot range and magnetically attaches to the speaker’s top when not in use. The speaker no longer requires hardware to use it on a tripod, thanks to its new recessed tripod hole.
Xirrus (www.xirrus.com) has announced a series of multiradio 802.11ac Wave 1 solutions that are fully upgradeable to 802.11ac Wave 2. Xirrus XR Arrays provide a modular upgrade path to future wireless standards as they come to market, as well as functionality that maximizes the efficiency and performance of the new 802.11ac Wi-Fi.
Epson (www.epson.com/projectors) has announced that MimioStudio classroom software is now available for purchase with Epson BrightLink interactive projectors. MimioStudio software licenses are now being sold with Epson BrightLink interactive projectors, but existing BrightLink customers can purchase the software separately. MimioStudio is designed to be used with interactive projectors, with support for pens, single touch, multi-touch, and gestures. The software also includes the Collaborate feature, allowing students to work interactively in small groups using multiple mobile devices at the same time, including Apple and Android tablets and smartphones that are enabled with the MimioMobile application.
Shuttle Computer Group (www.us.shuttle.com) and ScholarChip have teamed up to create a solution designed to keep track of student and staff school attendance. ScholarChip’s Safety and Operations System incorporates Shuttle’s X50 all-in-one computer with ScholarChip’s software and accessories in a portable kiosk, capturing attendance at a rate of over 40 students per minute. The kiosk includes two screens that display student photos as their contactless NFC ID cards are waived near the card readers. A printer is attached to the kiosk to create temporary IDs and late passes. When connected to a network, attendance is monitored in real time, giving administrators security information and accurate student counts used for state funding.
