Desire2Learn is releasing a new version of Learning Suite, an educational software package that includes a learning management system, electronic portfolio, learning repository, and analytics. The new release, version 9.2, expands support for mobile Web users and also brings several enhancements in the areas of assessments and grading.
Students in large urban school districts are lagging behind the nation in their grasp of natural sciences, according to a special report on science education in 17 of America's urban districts. Experts involved in the report placed part of the blame on the lack of any clear or meaningful national science strategy, though several other factors, they acknowledged, contributed to the disparity.
- By Scott Aronowitz
- 02/28/11
Turning Technologies has rolled out a new app that lets users control TurningPoint and TurningPoint AnyWhere via an iPad or other Apple iOS device. The company has also released updates for its TurningPoint and QuestionPoint classroom assessment tools.
In an effort to evaluate new teaching candidates more effectively and with better long-term results, the Teacher Performance Assessment Consortium (TPAC) and Web software provider TaskStream have joined forces to pilot an in-depth teacher performance assessment (TPA).
- By Scott Aronowitz
- 02/14/11
Ann Koufman-Frederick isn't one to pass up an opportunity to put her district at the forefront of emerging educational technologies. As the superintendent of Watertown Public Schools, in Watertown, MA, she encourages her teachers to participate in tech-based pilot and research programs run by higher ed institutions. And why shouldn't she, when her district enjoys such notable neighbors as Harvard University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Boston College?
- By Jennifer Demski
- 02/11/11
Blackboard has launched a free hosted course management service. The system, CourseSites is an online platform that enables faculty members to set up Web-based class sites where they can post course materials, communicate with students, encourage collaboration, monitor performance, and manage grades.
- By Dian Schaffhauser
- 02/10/11
Safari Montage has launched an iPhone and iPad app for its K-12 video-on-demand system.
Shmoop is at it again. The irreverent study aid and test prep Web site announced at the FETC 2011 conference that it has taken its ACT preparation course online.
- By Scott Aronowitz
- 02/02/11
Ed tech developer Brainchild this week debuted a tablet designed specifically for K-12 schools. The new device, called Kineo, is based around Google's Android 2.1 operating system, like a number of popular tablets, but provides security features for schools that want to limit what students can do.
Education initiative Next Generation Learning Challenges (NGLC) has kicked off a new round of challenge grants aimed at helping middle school students improve their math and reading skills through the use of technology.
- By Scott Aronowitz
- 01/28/11