Other similar options are out there, such as Quizlet and Kahoot!, but these are quiz-only systems that may be too limited for some teachers. Wayground takes the best of those and adds in the gamification, meme editing, and music picks to make this a more immersive experience for students.

Thanks to the new rebranding launch there are now also lots of AI tools and resources to help teach.

Wayground is already used by more than half the schools in the U.S. and in over 150 countries worldwide. This is thanks to a very intuitive system that looks great, in a minimalist way, and just makes learning more fun.

So is Wayground the ultimate quiz tool for your classroom?

What is Wayground?

Wayground is primarily an online-based quiz and teaching tool that operates like a gameshow. That means a question-and-answer platform that works across browsers and Chrome as well as iPhone and Android devices, with dedicated apps for both.

From a student's perspective, this makes learning more fun with game-based interactions and an ability to work through a quiz using their own devices. For teachers, there is a host of pre-built quizzes to pick from as well as the option to edit and create their own from scratch. Plus, with the added AI focus, the ability to personalize is now easier than ever.

Since students only need an access code, they don't need to sign-up for an account, making it super simple to access for everyone. In addition, their privacy and personal details can be kept be protected.

For teachers, this platform offers a large database of quiz options, and AI tools, so it's a simple-to-use tool that doesn't require a lot of time and effort. But since these can be edited, this can also provide a more in-depth and personalized offering for students and classes.

What's new in Wayground?

Since the rebrand, several updates have arrived including curriculum alignment to map resources to standards.

Lesson bundles are a helpful addition ideal for lesson planning.

AI can be used to work off a single file to makes multiple interactive formats.

Language support is wider now across all media.

VoyageMath is also new, offer middle school programs for individualized instruction.

How does Wayground work?

For teachers, a sign-up is required to start using Wayground. Basic details are required, and can be done using a school-based email address as well as a Google or Microsoft account. The particularly useful thing with this tool is that it offers some great integration across the likes of Edmodo, Google Classroom, and Remind.

Once an account is ready, teachers can access the database of quiz options, reporting choices and instructional resources can be searched and organized to make finding the ideal option a quick and easy process. You may discover that an already-created tool can serve your purpose just fine. Or you may want to edit and make a few changes to perfect the final version.

Creating a new resource is also an option, with single and multi-select multiple choice answer options. Teachers can input questions and answers manually if that's the easiest way to work, but there are rich media options, too. Add images to questions, or as answer options, and also customize feedback for students.

For example, you can incorporate a popular meme that students see based on the answer they give. While there are plenty to pick from, these can also be made by the teachers if desired.

Crucially, you can make adjustments using AI so there are more than 25 modifications that can accommodate each student's unique needs.

What are the best Wayground features?

The ability to take a quiz privately or as a class is a useful option. This allows teachers to assign individual quizzes suited to each student, or to work as a class, getting feedback on how the class is managing with a single subject across the group. The advantage of working in class is that everyone can see how their peers are doing. Equally, working solo can be ideal for those who prefer to be left alone, or for homework task setting.

Wayground offers a leaderboard, but this is something that teachers can choose to turn off if the competitive nature of that doesn't serve the students. The same can be said for question timers, which may help motivate some students but could be seen as unnecessary pressure for others – so being able to turn this on and off is a nice touch.

Also editable are the meme feedback and music options. With these on, the quiz can feel like a lot of fun and be very lively, or you can turn these off for a more studious experience.

One option allows students to see their results after they take the quiz, which is a helpful way to make sure they learn from any mistakes they may have made. They can also retake the quiz as a way to gamify it, seeing how many they can get right the second time around.

Teachers can email parents through the app with a detailed report that shows how the student is performing. These results are also helpful for teachers to see how students are struggling so as to decide what to work on next.

How much does Wayground cost?

Wayground is free to get started but keeps its pricing structure quite hidden on its homepage, except in the case of work-based options.

While you can use the free option, there is a $10 per month plan that is billed annually at $96. This gets you access to the Wayground Super library of quizzes and the ability to create unlimited quizzes and lessons. There is ad-free use with game themes, answer explanations, interactive videos, and more.

Wayground best tips and tricks

Spend time on search
It's important to spend time searching the database as more time here can result in a near-finished quiz, rather than the much longer process of making your own. Also the more you search, the better you become at using the platform. AI can help here as a jump-off point to find more.

Assess early
Start a class, or even a term, using a quiz that will assess how students are grasping a task or subject area. This can help tune how you teach the subject both on a class and teacher-to-student level.

Use parents
Send the results emails to parents and make sure students know that happens, perhaps monthly, so they can have another set of eyes on their efforts.

• New Teacher Starter Kit
• Best Tools for Teachers

The Chromebook Plus 515 is a powerful productivity-forward Chromebook for those that want to be productive as well as enjoy web browsing, music, and streaming.

Acer Chromebook Plus 515: Getting Started

After unboxing I was able to set up the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 just like any other Chrome device by simply logging in with my Google account. Once I finished some of the set up steps the device was ready for use.

Right from the start I could tell this device was quite powerful. Everything loaded very quickly and the response to more processor heavy tasks was handled without issue. It has a sturdy build to take abuse while on the go but is not too heavy for a device its size.

I liked the responsiveness and accuracy of the touchscreen as well as the quality images it produced. The speakers did a nice job delivering clear sound in both video and music streaming, while the battery delivered with a respectable charge to get me through a workday. Although, as with any cordless device your battery life may vary depending on use. But, overall it did a very nice job for all of my tasks.

I found the Chromebook Plus AI features to be a great help with both productivity and research tasks. It allows for text generation, live video/audio captioning, and basic image editing, all of which worked very well and are great additions.

I also liked how AI is integrated into so many areas of the ecosystem with new features being rolled out at a nice pace.

Acer Chromebook Plus 515: Key Specifications

• Display - 15.6-inch, 1920 x 1080 IPS (non-touch or touch)
• Processor - Intel Core i3-1215U (configurable up to Core i7-1355U)
• RAM - 8GB LPDDR5X (up to 16GB in higher configs)
• Storage - 128GB UFS (up to 512GB in higher configs)
• Graphics - Intel UHD
• Ports - 2x USB-C, 1x USB-A, HDMI 1.4, 3.5mm audio jack
• Connectivity - Wifi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1
• Webcam - 1080p with privacy shutter
• Dimensions - 14.2 x 9.4 x 0.79 inches (approx. 360.6 x 238.4 x 19.95mm)
• Weight - 3.7 pounds (1.68 kg)
• Battery - 53Wh, up to 8 hours per charge
• Build - Plastic chassis, MIL-STD 810H durability

Acer Chromebook Plus 515: Cost

The Acer Chromebook Plus 515 as tested is priced at $399.99

Acer Chromebook Plus 515: Key Takeaways

The Chromebook Plus 515 offers performance for everyday tasks such as writing, web browsing, and streaming, thanks to its Intel Core i3 (or higher) processor and 8GB of RAM. The large 15.6-inch 1080p screen is large and the option touchscreen is very responsive. The upward-facing stereo speakers are a standout feature, delivering surprisingly good sound for a Chromebook.

The device offers a wide selection of ports, including two USB-C, one USB-A, HDMI, and a headphone jack, making it versatile for peripherals and external displays. The AI features of Chromebook Plus such as text generation and live captioning, work well and add value, especially for productivity.

Overall, the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 is an excellent choice for students, writers, and anyone needing a reliable, affordable large-screen Chromebook for everyday productivity. It may need a bit of a charge for long, heavy-use days, but its performance, port selection, and speakers make it a standout in its price range.

The current version of Kira offers AI tools that are built to support teachers and students across educational scenarios and subjects. The company says this gives teachers more time to focus on students and classroom impact.

Built by a team of educators, engineers, designers, and operators, Kira is a multi-faceted system that offers a finished and complete AI solution for teachers' needs, and is free for educators and students.

The company claims, "Kira is the first AI platform that delivers personalized education at scale."

This guide lays out all you need to know about Kira in your class.

What is Kira Learning?

Kira Learning is an AI platform that works to make the job of teachers more simple while also supporting students in their learning.

This is actually described by its creators as an AI toolkit consisting of more than 20 different AI tools, so it can cover a wide variety of teacher and student needs.

This can be used to prepare, with lesson plans and rubrics; to assess with quiz design and differentiated instructions; and to grade with feedback generation, progress tracking, and more.

A course library for teaching computer science is also available -- listed below -- since this does still offer the original Kira content, only now with a way more AI-focused approach.

How does Kira Learning work?

Kira Learning offers a rich course catalog that you can get into for computer science teaching. But now there is all that AI power as well, it's possible to use it in a way that is focused on more general teaching.

Sign up with a Google or school account initially and as a teacher you can begin using the services. You build activities using AI, create a course using instructional sequences, use interactive video to teach, or align content to educational standards as needed.

The point is this is very broad in its offerings, so how you use it as a teacher is up to you. You may wish to dive into the AI Tutor, which allows you to offer students real-time feedback on multimodal learning. Teachers can program this in a way that allows them to save time on individual support, while students still get that level of assistance while learning.

What are the best Kira Learning features?

Kira Learning is a powerful and rich offering so it can deliver an AI tool to work with most needs for teachers. For example, that means saving on time while still offering students personalized guidance and feedback, that can be monitored and analyzed by teachers to track progress.

Usefully, the Kira AI can adapt to student needs, so it will suggest targeted practice, offer useful insights to educators, and adapt explanations to help students as required.

This being education-specific, you can enjoy all the benefits of AI without any of the worries since this is compliant with COPPA and FERPA, uses AWS servers in the U.S., and is Common Sense privacy-verified.

The adaptive nature of Kira is really helpful. If a student keeps making the same or a similar mistake, for example, Kira will spot that and then adjust guidance accordingly. This should allow a new approach through which students find a way to understand and progress.

How much does Kira Learning cost?

Kira Learning is free for teachers and students, however, districts are charged at a bespoke rate for analytics.

Kira Learning best tips and tricks

Discuss first
Initially explain how this AI works so students are aware of its limitations and abilities -- and that they can ask you directly if needed.

Check in
The more you use AI, the more you can and should check-in to make sure it's working effectively and helping students as expected.

Teach CS
This is built from a computer science teaching platform so using it for that specifically is a great way to maximize what you're getting out of Kira.

• New Teacher Starter Kit
• Best Tools for Teachers

Fortunately, the image and clip art sites below provide an extensive supply of moderate- to high-quality visuals for cost-conscious schools. Most of these sites are completely free, and most have a clear license/FAQ page explaining what uses are allowed or prohibited.

Best Image and Clip Art Sites for Education

Freerange

Freerange boasts a stylish easy-to-navigate website with thousands of free high-quality images. Users can search easily by category or keyword, and filter by specific license and popularity. Download options include three sizes. Bonus- users can “download” directly to PIXLR for editing. While photos are tastefully and artistically composed, a few do include mild-moderate nudity. All photos and illustrations are licensed for commercial use, with details provided. Account required.

PROS:

• Clear Licensing Information and credit text provided
• Search by category, keyword, license type, recency and popularity
• High-quality photos and illustrations
• Three sizes available for download
• Users may share directly from image page to social media and email
• Users can contribute images

CONS:

• Occasional mild-moderate nudity may be considered inappropriate

Free Images

One of the oldest and largest free image sites, Free Images was founded as Stock.xchng in 2001. Over the next 20 years, the site merged with several free illustration sites and was renamed Free Images. Available in more than a dozen languages, the site is a repository for thousands of free photos, vector images, clipart, and editable Photoshop templates as well as icons. The robust selection of free downloads is supplemented by AI-generated images and content from the paid site iStock. No account is required, but each download is delayed for six seconds in order to show users an iStock advertisement/promo code.

PROS:

• 16 languages available
• Photos, vector images, clip art, icons, and editable Photoshop files
• Search by categories and themes
• Very good image quality
• Download size options
• Attribution clarity
• No account required

CONS:

• Paid images from iStock sprinkled in free results
• Download delay due to ads

Pics4Learning

A safe, curated image library for classroom assignments, school websites, or any education-related project, Pics4Learning provides a diverse spectrum of images in subjects ranging from American Sign Language to fractals to weather. Contribute your own JPEG or PNG images. Fully free, no account required.

PROS:

• Thousands of images curated for students
• Search by keyword, themes and collections
• Download as .jpg or save directly to Google Drive
• Citation for each image provided
• Users can contribute their own images

CONS:

• While image quality is at least adequate, there are fewer high-quality, professional-style photos compared to other sites

Pixabay

In just 15 short years, Pixabay has grown to be one of the best-known and most comprehensive free image sharing sites. Here visitors can explore and download collections of photos, illustrations, vector images, videos, and even music. All are free to download and free to use under the Pixabay license, which is a modified Creative Commons CC0 license. Pixabay shines in another way as well—its blogs and forums keep users apprised of the latest news and tips to make the most of the site.

PROS:

• Extensive collections of quality free images, videos, music, sound effects, and gifs in a wide range of categories
• Search by content type, orientation, size, color, date of publication, AI-generation, popularity
• Clear summary of license dos and don'ts
• Users can contribute their own content
• User forums allow discussions about site practices as well as artistic techniques

CONS:

• Quality varies, as is true for all free image sites

Photos For Class

From a partnership between Storyboard That and Pixabay, this education-focused image site allows teachers and students to download high-quality Creative Commons photos for school assignments. The main advantage of Photos for Class is that its curation process ensures that all images are appropriate for kids. However, no categories are listed for easy browsing and the search feature is limited, allowing only free text and voice search.

PROS:

• Four-step filtering process ensures that all images are appropriate for kids
• Downloaded images automatically cite author and image license terms
• Voice search
• No account required

CONS:

• Limited search capabilities
• No category list for browsing

Pexels

A top resource not only for free stock images, but also free stock videos. Pexels hosts photo and video challenges for multiple categories, with professional photography equipment awarded to winners. While you’ll find many high-quality images and videos on Pexels, there’s no category list or dedicated color search, so finding a specific image may take longer. No account is required, but create a free account to collect your favorites and contribute your own images and videos. Currently, 28 languages are supported.

PROS:

• Search by keyword, orientation, size, color, popularity, user, or upload date
• License rules clearly explained
• 28 languages supported
• User challenges

CONS:

• No comprehensive category list for browsing

Freepik

With photos, vector images, Photoshop (PSD) files, customizable icons, easy-to-edit illustrations, and an online template editor, Freepik is a one-stop shop for free images and image tools. Freepik's, freemium model provides a generous selection of high quality free content, although free users are limited to ten daily downloads.

PROS:

• Easy sign in with Google, Apple, or email.
• High-quality photos, vectors, illustrations, 3D models, video snippets, and more
• Filters let users search by keywords, free or premium, orientation, color, AII-generated, file type, popularity, and more
• Built-in editing tools for images and videos.

CONS:

• Free plan limited to 10 downloads daily.
• No access to premium images with free plan
• Attribution required for free downloads.

Unsplash

Thousands of free sometimes ordinary—but often eye-popping—images include categories such as nature, current events, technology, and many more suitable for education use. Most are free to download and use according to the Unsplash License, with the exception of premium (Unsplash+) content. A fun feature for contributors is the “Made With Unsplash” page, which showcases creative remixes of its images. Unsplash provides strong support for its contributors, so it's a great place for young photographers to get started sharing their work.

PROS:

• Many interesting, unusual, and stylish images to choose from
• Search by keyword or image
• Four download sizes
• Users can upload their own work
• Clear rules for licenses and attribution
• No account required

CONS:

• Premium content mixed with free content in searches
• Lacks comprehensive category list for browsing

Kaboompics

A professional-looking site featuring free high-quality photos in diverse categories, from lifestyle to technology to healthcare. Users can search by category, color of the spectrum and image orientation. A nifty perk is that each photo includes a free downloadable complementary colors palette. No account required.

PROS:

• Each image includes a specific color palette with color hex codes
• Custom size and orientation downloads
• Search by keyword, category, color, recency, or popularity
• Photoshoots are a great way to explore a theme
• Clear license and attribution rules

CONS:

• Sometimes tricky to distinguish premium photo blocks from free content
• "View more" button links to paid image site

NegativeSpace

A stylish and professional-looking site offering a wide variety of free, high-resolution Creative Commons CC0 photographs as well as free virtual backgrounds for videoconferencing and remote teaching. More than two dozen categories are available, from Abstract to Virtual Backgrounds. Search by category, hashtag and color. Be sure to check out the awesome outer space photos! No account required.

PROS:

• Easy to navigate interface
• Browse two dozen categories

CONS:

• Keyword search is somewhat unreliable
• No choice of download size

Gratisography

Gratisography is a great resource for creative and quirky stock photos and vector images. It's not only fun to browse, but also provides a clear, plain-language explanation of what users can and can’t do with the photos. Search by topic or browse categories including nature, food, urban and more. Collections range from “AI Generated” to “Artsy Architecture" to “Goofy Grownups” to “Hijinks Hands.” Although the site is heavy on whimsy, it’s not light on quality -- vectors and images appear to be professionally composed and executed.

PROS:

• Unusual, uncommon, and amusing high-quality images
• Search by keyword or browse categories and collections
• Clear license terms
• No account required

CONS:

• No attribution provided for images
• AI-generated images are not always labeled as such

Flickr Commons: The Commons

The Commons, from the photo-sharing site Flickr, serves as a free catalog of the world’s public photos with no known copyright restrictions, contributed by dozens of government and academic bodies. Comments from Flickr members provide context and additional information for many images. Search by subject, color, black and white, or seven different license options. Safe search option available.

PROS:

• Search by keyword, license, color, pattern, Flickr members, and themed groups
• Safe search available
• Users can contribute their own content
• Wide variety of image download sizes
• Great for historical images

CONS:

• Because contributors may disable downloading, not all images can be used
• License terms not always clear
• Account required
• Relatively high percentage of older content of varied quality

Vector Characters

A relatively simple site, Vector Characters focuses on character-based vector art in categories such as man, woman, child, robot, etc. For adding a touch of whimsy or humor to any school project, check out the Fruit Vector, Monster Vector, and Animal Vector categories. Free and premium content. Find free content by entering "free" in the search box.

PROS:

• No account required
• Hundreds of free vector images.
• Browse by category or character type.
• Informative blog posts

CONS:

• Limited search options
• No photos or other types of illustrations

The exhibit hall showcased hundreds of new products and services, and our Tech & Learning judges culled the show floor to review the many nominated products for this year’s Tech & Learning's Best of Show awards at ISTELive 25 awards. The evaluation criteria included: ease of use, value, uniqueness in the market, and proof that the product helped make teachers' lives easier and supported student achievement.

"While AI continued to dominate discussions at ISTE this year, we were truly impressed by the nominated products that bolster the core of teaching and learning while also thoughtfully integrating emerging technologies," noted Christine Weiser, Content Director for Tech & Learning. "Our judges selected the innovative products they believe support classroom and district needs. Congratulations to all our winners!"

PRIMARY EDUCATION

Acer America, Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 (model CPE794-1N-797A)
"The Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 offers excellent multitasking power with Intel Core Ultra processors, crisp visuals on a 14" touchscreen, and AI-enhanced video/audio tools for teaching and conferencing."

Acer America, Acer Chromebook Spin 512 (Model R857TN-P5QA)
"Purpose-built for elementary students, the Acer Chromebook Spin 512's flexible 360-degree hinge, Wi-Fi 7 readiness, optional LTE, and replaceable components make it an adaptable and sustainable classroom companion. With Chrome Education Upgrade support, it's also easy for IT teams to manage at scale."

ActiveFloor, ActiveFloor
"This is an innovative, portable solution that utilizes movement for learning."

Avantis Education, ClassVR from Avantis Education
"ClassVR is the total package when it comes to bringing and scaling Virtual Reality use for schools to adopt this technology. ClassVR not only has made the hardware and management of that hardware easy for schools to adopt and implement, it has also created a phenomenal software platform to complement this amazing system."

Beanstack, Beanstack
"I really like their approach to reading and comprehension. The use of AI as well as other ways of tracking and discerning comprehension is very well thought out. Also, the data reporting capabilities is a huge help."

BenQ Education, RP04
"These boards and are excellent. They have a great feature set and are very easy to use and manage."

BirdBrain Technologies, Inc., Hummingbird Robotics Kit for Primary Ed
"The Hummingbird Bit Robotics Kit offers an exceptional, research-backed platform for inclusive and creative STEM learning. Its blend of accessibility, flexibility, and cross-curricular applicability make it an ideal tool for engaging students in meaningful, long-term robotics exploration."

BookBreak,BookBreak
"BookBreaks is an amazing platform that connects real-world authors in realtime to classrooms. This is a great tool to ignite the passion of reading and writing in students of all ages."

BrainFreeze, BrainFreeze by Airia
"This new BrainFreeze AI Literacy Platform is just "what the doctor ordered"! It comes just in time for the explosion of AI tools that have come on the market and provides a beacon of safety and sanity when it comes to helping students, teachers, parents, and community navigate the AI complexities of today's world."

ClassLink, ClassLink Suite
"The ClassLink Suite has been a tremendous asset in boosting both learning access and operational efficiency across schools. Its intuitive design, especially features like QuickCards and LaunchPad, makes digital access seamless for younger students while maintaining strong security for older users."

Clear Touch,Sho Software
"Clear Digital's Sho Software offers a modern, scalable approach to digital signage, perfect for schools seeking dynamic communication tools. Its creative integrations and safety-focused features make it both practical and engaging."

Clear Touch, Connect Software
"Connect Software has addressed a pain point for educators that may teaching a variety of settings outside their classroom."

Clear Touch,Next Hub
"I like that NEXT Hub is trying to keep older technology working in schools instead of disposing. This is a very nice solution that not only upgrades software and security, but adds a camera and video capability to older interactive panels."

Cricut, Cricut Explore 4
"Cricut Explore 4 is a fast, user-friendly cutting machine that makes high-quality crafting more accessible. It’s a great tool for education and creative environments, blending ease of use with the flexibility to produce professional-looking custom projects."

CTL, CTL Chromebook PX121E
"CTL Chromebooks are very well made and the addition of free provisioning and quick service turnaround are great additions."

Curriculum Associates, i-Ready: Clear data and connected instruction
"This is a very comprehensive solution. I like i-Ready’s adaptive diagnostic features and the fact that it is a connected ecosystem and not a set of disparate tools."

Edmentum,Exact Path for Primary Education
"ExactPath by Edmentum is a really nice tool for taking assessment scores and standards from annual and quarterly summative assessment companies and projecting a unique learning path for students to improve their areas of deficiencies."

Edmentum,Edmentum Virtual Tutoring
"I like how this product first identifies gaps in prerequisite skills that indicate standards readiness and then focuses on mastery of the on-grade skills. This product also emphasizes the need to quickly close gaps in a student's learning by providing targeted remediation based on that student’s needs."

FACIL'iti MYdys, FACIL'iti MYdys
"MYdys EDU, an assistive technology app, helps students with dyslexia read and comprehend text more easily."

Forward Edge, Edge•U Badges Primary Education
"EdgeU Badges is an innovative professional learning platform that brings a game-based approach to educator growth. We’ve used it to streamline PD and keep it focused, personalized, and engaging. The badge system motivates teachers while clearly showing progress in their learning journey. At the elementary level, educators especially appreciate the incentive-based format, as it mirrors the reward systems they often use with their own students making the experience both familiar and motivating. It’s a creative and effective way to build educator capacity while fostering a sense of accomplishment and continued growth."

HMH, HMH AI Tools
"I like HMH's use of AI to help automate tasks as well as their approach to data privacy which is an issue in the AI space."

HoverCam / Pathway Innovations, Inc., HoverCam Orbit Trio
"Teachers can use Trio to show student work from anywhere in the classroom without being tied to a desk or projector. Its wireless document camera and AV-over-IP casting let teachers share student thinking in real time."

IXL Learning, IXL
"IXL is a great product that they keep working on to improve. The feedback and help students get "un-stuck," are very good. The data reporting is also a great tool for the teachers."

JAR Systems, Open6 Charging Station Automated by Go-Box
"Go-Box has always been a great tool for IT Departments. It makes provisioning and refreshing Chromebooks so fast and easy. This design is even better and takes up less space with less cords."

Kahoot!,Kahoot! AI Generator
"I like how Kahoot! has grown. Their AI features are a huge time saver for teachers. The ability for students to get feedback as well as generate their own study content is terrific."

Kai's Education, KaiBot and Market Math
"KaiBot with Market Math is a playful, engaging tool that effectively combines early math skills with hands-on coding for young learners. The UDL-based design ensures all students can access and enjoy the content"

Kibeam Learning, Inc. Big Readers Start Small: The AI Wand That Transforms Paper Books Into Interactive Learning Adventures
"This is a very innovative and creative use of AI with a device that has no screen. The ability to interact with books both as an entire page, or just a word is very good. Plus the kinetic and interactive features make it more than an tool that reads a book to you. And the data feedback to teachers is great."

LG Electronics USA, LG CreateBoard Core
"This is a very competitive space, but LG has included preloaded operating system feature that helps them stand apart from the competition. I especially appreciate like management and an OPS slot for customization."

LG Electronics USA, LG CreateBoard Prep
"This is a really good tool and the fact that it allows you to import a variety of file types like, .notebook and .flipchart is terrific. The fact that it is free and can be used without a interactive board is great."

Mackin,MackinVIA
"I really like this product's comprehensive resources and features. It is an excellent addition to for the education space."

Magic EdTech, MagicBox
"MagicBox has addressed both end user and administrative and data privacy issues. They allow for integrations with LMS and SIS solutions. Feedback and the use of AI helps improve productivity."

MagicSchool, MagicSchool AI
"MagicSchool AI has been at the forefront of reliable, trustworthy AI tools for teachers looking to dig into AI and experience the "Magic" when it comes to using AI to save time and make learning more meaningful for their students."

MAXCases, MAXCases Extreme Shell-FL Case for Chromebooks & Laptops
"This MaxCases Extreme Shell-FL is MAXCases the best case yet. They have learned from the demands that cases have gone through during the past years and have found solutions and made fixes on the feedback of their users. "

MIND Education, Seeing is Believing: InsightMath Makes K-6 Math Click
"I'm impressed with the neuroscience behind this product and the interactivity and multi-modal methods of instruction."

MIND Education, ST Math: See Math. Learn Math. Know Math.
"ST Math is a powerful visual learning program that supports deep conceptual understanding through spatial-temporal reasoning. Its emphasis on problem-solving over rote memorization makes it especially valuable. A must-have resource for districts focused on strengthening math instruction."

Otus
"Otus stands out for its comprehensive, AI-enhanced data and assessment tools that help educators make smarter decisions with speed and clarity. Its integration with Discovery Education greatly broadens its reach and impact."

OverDrive, Sora
"With built-in tools like dyslexia support, reading goals, LMS integration, and real-time reading analytics, Sora not only makes accessing ebooks and audiobooks seamless—it also fosters a love for reading and student ownership over literacy growth."

Ozobot, Ozobot Ari
"I have always like Ozobot's approach and the improvements on this device are really great. I especially like the touchscreen."

Play Piper LLC, Piper Computer Kit
"The Piper Computer Kit is an inventive STEM tool that allows students to build their own computer and explore coding and circuitry through interactive, story-driven activities. By blending physical assembly with game-based learning, it introduces complex concepts in a hands-on, engaging way that makes computing accessible and exciting for students in grades 3–8."

Play Piper LLC, Play Piper's Enhanced Base Station Curriculum
"Play Piper’s Enhanced Base Station Curriculum stands out for its educator-first design, adaptability, and hands-on approach to STEM learning. It's a well-rounded tool that lowers barriers to classroom integration while still sparking curiosity and technical growth among students."

Pocketalk
"The Pocketalk system for on-the-spot translation of over 92 languages is nothing short of amazing. Perfect for students to use on field trips and using with parents who speak a language other than English when they come into school to speak with teachers and other building staff."

Prodigy Education, Prodigy
"Prodigy is a zero-cost, game-based learning platform that combines engaging adventures with standards-aligned math (grades 1–8) and English (grades 1–6) instruction. Its optional revenue model ensures free access while maintaining high standards for student data privacy."

Robotical, Robotical Cog
"I really like the simplicity of this product and the variety of coding languages. This a a great fit for an introduction to coding at the primary level."

Samsung Electronics America, Samsung WAF Enhances Classroom Collaboration
"Samsung’s WAF Interactive Display elevates classroom interaction and collaboration with high-quality hardware, familiar Android integration, and thoughtful instructional tools. It's a powerful, scalable solution for modern learning environments."

CyberNut, Security Awareness Training
"CyberNut is a game-changing tool for K-12 education that brings real-time cybersecurity awareness training to teachers and staff in a gamified approach while providing a mechanism for educators to report phishing and suspicious email activity."

Seesaw Learning, Seesaw Learning
"Seesaw Instruction & Insights offers a rich, research-backed digital platform tailored for elementary education. By combining interactive lessons, creative student portfolios, and two-way communication, it delivers an engaging, transparent learning experience."

Sergeant Laboratories, AristotleK12
"AristotleK12's digital integration platform and content filtering solution can help improve classroom management, enhance online safety for students, and provide detailed reporting for IT and administrative staff."

Smartbox Assistive Technology, Inc., Grid
"Smartbox's Grid software and Grid Pad assistive technology devices include intuitive interface, customization options, text-based communication, and environmental control."

Teachers First LLC, Toddle
"I like that this is a solution by educators for educators. They have the features needed in a good LMS as well as the integration of AI for productivity."

ViewSonic Corp.ViewSonic ClassSwift Education Software
"The ViewSonic ClassSwift Software is designed with educators in mind, offering an intuitive interface and straightforward navigation. ClassSwift is designed to integrate well with other educational technologies and platforms, including LMSs and digital whiteboards."

World Book, Inc., ClassMate
"The Worldbook Classmate platform offers expert-verified WorldBook Content combined with AI-powered scaffolding to produce and boost literacy abilities. This is a good use of AI with wonderful, well-known Worldbook content."

zSpace, Inc.,zSpace Imagine - A Headset-free AR/VR Solution for Elementary Learners
"This Z-Space Headset-free AR/VR Solution for Elementary Learners is an amazing platform that will help young students navigate their through using AR and VR. I particularly liked the 3D aspect of performing hands-on tasks. The platform also provides for life skills programs for neurodiverse students."

SECONDARY EDUCATION

Acer America, Acer TravelMate B3 Spin 12 (Model: TMB312R-31-C45D)
"The TravelMate B3 Spin 12 goes beyond basic functionality, encouraging deeper interaction with content. A smart, student-friendly device for dynamic learning environments."

Acer America, Acer TravelMate B5 14 (Model: TMB514-31-G2)
"The Acer TravelMate B5 14 offers strong performance and long-term stability for daily classroom use. A solid investment for maintaining a stable and efficient device program."

Ativion, StudentKeeper from Ativion
"StudentKeeper stands out as a multi-functional platform that enhances digital safety, classroom engagement, and student well-being. Its AI-powered tools and parent connectivity make it a smart solution for schools seeking comprehensive and cohesive digital environment management."

BenQ Education, RP04
"These boards and are excellent. They have a great feature set and are very easy to use and manage."

BenQ Education, BenQ SL04 PANTONE VALIDATED SIGNAGE
"The BenQ SL04 Series delivers impressive visual quality and Google certifications, making it ideal for educational environments where color accuracy matters. It’s an excellent solution for engaging digital signage and content display.

BirdBrain Technologies, Inc., Finch Robot for Secondary Ed
"With robust hardware, a removable micro:bit, cross-platform compatibility, and comprehensive instructional support, The Finch Robot 2.0 is a versatile and affordable robotics solution tailored for secondary students to master programming from block-based to advanced text-based coding like Java and Python."

Brisk Labs Corp.,Brisk Teaching: Helping Educators Focus on What Matters Most
"Brisk Teaching is one of my favorite AI tools for teachers on the market today. Not only do they pay close attention to student and teacher data privacy as the process input with AI, but I love the fact that it already resides as an extension to your browser."

Cellairis,The Cyber Pouch
"The Cyber Pouch is a smart, low-tech solution to tackle cellphone distractions in the classroom. It blocks signals to keep students focused without compromising safety or accessibility, using a rugged, no-fuss design that’s easy for schools to adopt at scale."

ClassDojo, ClassDojo for Districts
"ClassDojo for Districts strengthens school communities by connecting educators, students, and families through inclusive, multilingual communication and student engagement tools. It enables district leaders to broadcast updates, teachers to share classroom moments, and students to participate in learning with personalized incentives—all within a mobile-first, user-friendly platform that prioritizes equity and transparency."

ClassLink, ClassLink Suite
"The ClassLink Suite has been a tremendous asset in boosting both learning access and operational efficiency across schools. Its intuitive design, especially features like QuickCards and LaunchPad, makes digital access seamless for younger students while maintaining strong security for older users."

Cricut, Cricut Maker 4
"The Cricut Maker 4 elevates personalization with unmatched versatility, cutting everything from paper to leather and metal with precision and speed. The easy setup and free Design Space app make it both accessible and powerful for diverse applications."

Edmentum Courseware
"Edmentum’s comprehensive Courseware digital curriculum for grade 6 through adult learners is based on the development of real-world skills, identifying students’ passions, and cultivating perseverance and grit."

Edmentum, Exact Path for Secondary Education
"ExactPath by Edmentum is a really nice tool for taking assessment scores and standards from annual and quarterly summative assessment companies and projecting a unique learning path for students to improve their areas of deficiencies."

Edmentum Virtual Tutoring
"I like how this product first identifies gaps in prerequisite skills that indicate standards readiness and then focuses on mastery of the on-grade skills. This product also emphasizes the need to quickly close gaps in a student's learning by providing targeted remediation based on that student’s needs."

Forward Edge, Edge•U Badges Secondary education
"Edge U Badges is an innovative professional learning platform that brings a game-based approach to educator growth. We’ve used it to streamline PD and keep it focused, personalized, and engaging. The badge system motivates teachers while clearly showing progress in their learning journey. A creative and effective way to build educator capacity with impact."

Gale, part of Cengage Group, Learning Differentiated with Gale In Context: For Educators
"Gale's newly updated platform makes it easy for educators to share curations and resources across their grade levels and across their districts. This is a terrific resource to help librarians and educators help our students become savvy digital information curators."

HMH AI Tools
"I like HMH's use of AI to help automate tasks as well as their approach to data privacy which is an important issue in the AI space."

Incident IQ, iiQ Resources
"iiQ Resources modernizes how school districts manage instructional materials by consolidating inventory, distribution, and accountability into a single, streamlined platform."

Incident IQ, iiQ Ticketing and Assets
"iiQ Ticketing and Assets offers a tailored, streamlined solution for K-12 tech teams, combining help desk automation with robust asset management."

IXL Learning, IXL
"IXL is a well thought out product that uses research to hep students and teachers improve teaching and learning. The diagnostic data is great feedback for the teachers."

Learning Genie
"I really like the co-creation features in this product. It gives students and teachers a collaborative workspace to help them successfully understand content. It also gives the agency they speak of to the students so they can feel empowered in their learning."

Learning.com, Digital Literacy and Citizenship
"Learning.com's EasyTech Digital Literacy and Citizenship is a strong, well-structured program that equips K-12 students with the foundational skills to navigate the digital world responsibly. The lessons are age-appropriate and cover critical areas like privacy, digital footprints, and ethical online behavior."

Lightspeed Systems,Lightspeed Signal
"Lightspeed Signal is a powerful visibility platform that gives tech leaders a clear, real-time view of device usage, app access, and network health across the district. It helps identify issues like unused devices, VPN workarounds, and performance gaps that are otherwise hard to track. An essential solution for any district focused on efficiency, accountability, and digital safety."

Logitech, Logitech Reach
"Logitech Reach is a sleek, portable, and powerful tool that empowers educators to bring physical content to life in the classroom. It blends precision, ease of use, and smart design into a compelling solution for hands-on teaching, particularly in STEM and art-based disciplines."

MAXCases, MAXCases Extreme Shell-FL Case for Chromebooks & Laptops
"This MaxCases Extreme Shell-FL is MAXCases the best case yet. They have learned from the demands that cases have gone through during the past years and have found solutions and made fixes on the feedback of their users."

NetSupport, classroom.cloud
"The NetSupport Classroom Cloud product is amazing when it comes to mobile device management at the classroom and teacher level. This system is also device agnostic and allows teachers to have full control over the content and use of their students devices that are district owned."

Ori Learning
"OriLeaning provides a platform that makes teaching emotional well being and transition easy and engaging. I loved the multiple modes of lesson delivery and it's incredibly accessible with text-to-speech autoplay and text highlight, while also serving over a 136 different languages."

Otus, Otus
"Otus consolidates assessment, grading, and data analytics into one intuitive platform. Its recent partnership with Discovery Education and AI-driven insights elevate its capabilities, empowering educators to act quickly on trends and support every learner effectively. With broad adoption and deep integration features, Otus stands out as a streamlined, high-impact educational tool."

ParentSquare
"ParentSquare is a powerful communication platform built for inclusivity, helping schools foster stronger, more equitable connections with families. Its deep feature set, ease of use, and integration capabilities make it a cornerstone for modern school engagement."

PBLWorks Teach
"PBLWorks Teach is a platform that provides more than 70 projects for Project-Based Learning, all backed by research."

Power Technologies,Power Technologies PT-Pro Series Locker
"This storage solution gives IT departments the ability to securely store repaired or loaner devices."

PowerSchool, PowerSchool Attendance Intervention
"PowerSchool's Attendance Intervention tool helps schools monitor attendance patterns and automate basic outreach."

Samsung Electronics America, Samsung WAF Enhances Classroom Collaboration "With support for simultaneous student interaction, seamless Google app integration, and robust device management tools, The Samsung WAF Interactive Display promotes collaboration, engagement, and instructional flexibility. The WAF stands out for its ability to include more students in interactive learning via screen mirroring and multi-zone whiteboarding."

Teachers First LLC, Toddle
"I like that this is a solution by educators for educators. They have the features needed in a good LMS as well as the integration of AI for productivity."

ViewSonic Corp.,ViewSonic ViewBoard IFP8651 EDLA Interactive Flat Panel Display"The Viewsonic IFP8651 EDLA Interactive Display is amazing! Not only is it priced right but it offers a wonderful functionality to laptops or desktop computers by bringing the power of touch to these devices as well as additional viewing real estate."

Vivacity Tech PBC, Vivacity 36-Unit Smart Charging Cart
"This is a is a durable, easy-to-use solution designed specifically for school environments. It keeps devices secure, charges them efficiently, and makes organization simple with clear slots and smooth mobility between classrooms."

Vivacity Tech PBC, Vivacity B30U 30-Unit Pre-Wired USB-C Charging Cart
"This is a sleek, time-saving solution perfect for classrooms using USB-C devices. With pre-wired connections and organized cable management, it's ready to use right out of the box no setup stress for teachers or tech teams."

Vivacity Tech PBC, Vivacity Guardian Backpack
"The Vivacity Guardian Backpack is a fantastic and durable way to transport and protect your technology when it comes to any size laptop, Chromebook or tablet. In fact, this backpack is so versatile that it can carry all three of those items, and more, at the same time!"

Vivacity Tech PBC, Vivacity Guardian Work-in Case with Pouch
"The Vivacity Guardian Work-in Case is a fantastic and durable way to transport and protect your technology when it comes to laptops or Chromebooks. This case has many great features, especially the many pockets that are specific to the accessories and supplemental technologies that are carried with your workstation."

Vivacity Tech PBC, Vivacity Repair Academy
"The Vivacity Repair Academy is an incredible platform for learning how to repair your own devices. This academy is not only perfect for your staff in your school district, but can provide a wonderful opportunity to bring into a high school CTE program."

Vivacity Tech PBC, Vivacity V Suite Pro
"The Vivacity V Suite Pro provides the most comprehensive Chromebook warranty in K-12. V Suite Pro offers unlimited claims, zero deductibles, free shipping, and an incredible repair turnaround time."

HIGHER EDUCATION

AVer Information Inc. USA, M11WB
"I particularly like that the AverMedia M11WB features 4K resolution and 29X zoom to eliminate visibility problems, allowing every student to see fine details, whether it’s a science experiment or a piece of student art."

BenQ Education, InstaShow VS20 Wireless Presentation System
"There are a lot of wireless presentation systems on the market but this one seems to address the connectivity issue quite well. I especially like the touch back feature."

BenQ Education, RP04
"These boards and are excellent. They have a great feature set and are very easy to use and manage."

BenQ Education, BenQ SL04 PANTONE VALIDATED SIGNAGE
"The BenQ SL04 Series is a standout choice for higher education environments that demand vibrant, accurate visuals and adaptable digital signage. This solution combines performance and style, perfectly suited for the fast-paced, visual demands of higher ed."

Epson America, Epson EB-PU2116W large venue laser projector
"The Epson EB-PU2116W is a powerful solution for educational institutions seeking to create immersive, large-scale visual experiences. Its compatibility with various lenses and advanced setup tools makes it highly adaptable and effective for dynamic instructional and artistic applications."

Samsung Electronics America, Samsung WAF Enhances Classroom Collaboration"The Samsung WAF Interactive Display is a robust, Android 14-powered classroom solution that enhances collaboration and engagement with seamless access to Google Apps and smart multitouch features. Its updated Note app, intuitive annotation tools, and centralized device management make it a powerful hub for modern, interactive instruction."

ViewSonic Corp.,ViewSonic LDS138-151 Mobile Direct View LED Display Solution
"The ViewSonic LDS138-151 is an impressive 138-inch all-in-one, mobile Direct View LED Display Solution. This Video-Wall display is nothing short of amazing and even folds up to transport it when combined with the wheelable cart."

The company behind the platform says that developing a stronger connection between teacher and student can have a positive impact on student academic growth, well-being, and social development.

This offers a digital way to forge that connection with lots of support for teachers that can make this an easy way to engage. Crucially, this is also about making students feel comfortable so they too want to engage and share.

This guide aims to explain all you need to know about Along for your class.

What is Along?

Along is a digital communications platform designed to help strengthen the relationship between teachers and students.

Using a mixture of text messaging, images, and videos, this offers a rich way for teachers to make contact with students and for them to respond and start a digital dialogue -- which can also spill over into physical conversations.

Unlike many other platforms, this one is purely focused on conversations that encourage deeper thinking and reflection for students and teachers. So while you can bring in academic topics, that's not the main focus here, with this being a more SEL-focused platform.

The idea is for teachers to better understand their students so that they can help meet their needs in the classroom far better and more effortlessly.

How does Along work?

Along works digitally, allowing teachers and students to connect across their own devices. Initially, teachers can sign-up using a Google or Microsoft account for quick access.

A range of resources are available immediately, including tutorials and teacher resources to help support reflective thinking. The idea of reflection itself is covered with tips on how to find time to do this, ways to reflect, research on how this works, and more.

A useful Google Slides presentation is available for teachers to share with students as a way to explain the idea behind this process so they can choose to get onboard, as informed and willing.

Teachers can email students the sign-up link so they are then able to using their own accounts to get started.

What are the best Along features?

Along helpfully offers plenty of pre-built resources for teachers to use. This includes guidance and explanations with research. But, perhaps most crucially, there are also pre-written questions.

Thanks to a mix of research-informed and partner co-created content, teachers can access a mix of open and scaffolded questions to get conversations started with students.

Once the response comes in, the teacher can reflect on it and analyze what was said -- individually as well as for class-wide trends. Support is provided from Along that helps during this part of the process too, which includes insights and recommendations.

Research-informed questions include ones such as, "What's one way you like to be recognized when you've worked hard?" with a selection of optional responses from which to pick. This is a more obvious and direct one, in terms of actionable outcome for teachers, but just shows how helpful this kind of space for dialogue can be.

How much does Along cost?

Along offers a range of options, all of which are free packages.

The Free option is for individuals and gets you on-demand setup and usage as well as troubleshooting technical support.

The School package, also free, gets you clever secure sync, live support for setup, dedicated onboarding, admin dashboard, school-wide sentiment survey, custom insights, and dedicated implementation planning for strategy and execution.

The District package, also free, gets you the above only applied to multiple schools at once.

Along best tips and tricks

Teach yourself first
Use the resources on offer to become accustomed to how the platform works before you start offering it to students.

Go IRL too
Determine if follow-up chats in real life are helpful to your student, and don't be afraid to use that should things get more complex.

Use others
This platform can open up more discussion points so be prepared to use other teachers, parents, and school counselors as needed.

• New Teacher Starter Kit
• Best Tools for Teachers

This month's new offerings feature many products that are being showcased at ISTELive 2025.

Avocor | A Series

The A Series features a detachable 4k camera for high-quality video. With Avocor EDLA OPS PC, users can enhance their Google experience with a certified Google EDLA display, enjoying the full benefits while maintaining energy efficiency. Handwriting recognition enables users to write naturally in whiteboarding mode before instantly converting to text.

Cellairis | CyberSystem

The new CyberSystem is a signal-blocking pouch designed to reduce distractions while keeping phones safely accessible for emergencies. Features include: Water-resistant and tear-resistant materials; ultra-strong Velcro; fits all major phones (with or without cases), plus earbuds, and smartwatches; hands-free carrying solution with attached carabiner; ID holder; built-in signal blocking stops incoming/outgoing communication.

Discovery Ed | DreamBox Reading PreK-Grade 5 Enhancements

Discovery Education is adding significant enhancements to the online, adaptive literacy program DreamBox Reading. These improvements broaden DreamBox Reading’s coverage to support all PreK-5 learners and expand educators’ abilities to develop students’ foundational skills and confidence in reading through personalized instruction. Among the latest enhancements made to DreamBox Reading are:  expanded access to adaptive, personalized learning for older readers; enhancements to the student experience; and improved teaching and learning Supports

Edlio | Community Analytics Dashboard

Designed to foster stronger engagement with families and communities, Edlio's new Community Analytics dashboard enables education leaders to monitor communication success, identify contact gaps, and take action to ensure that vital information reaches every member of their school community. It includes deliverability reports, targeted group messaging, and multilingual support.

Epson | PowerLite L-Series laser projectors

Epson's new three-chip 3LCD PowerLite L-Series laser projectors are compatible with Apple AirPlay, allowing users to share videos, photos, music, and more from Apple devices directly to their projector. The new lineup delivers higher brightness and pro level features in a portable design, with an expanded range of throw ratios from 0.5 to 2.2.

Ergotron | YES Adjusta Pre-wired Charging Cart

Ergotron’s YES Adjusta Pre-wired Charging Carts are available in two configurations to support safe, secure, and fast charging. The YES24 fits up to 24 devices with 24 charging bays pre-wired with USB-C power adapters, and the YES36 fits up to 36 devices with 36 charging bays pre-wired with USB-C power adapters. Because each Charging Cart is pre-wired with its own dedicated set of power adapters accessible behind a lockable panel, schools can eliminate the ongoing need to replace lost, stolen, or damaged charging cords.

Extron | UCS SW 313

The UCS SW 313 is a collaboration and presentation switcher for presentation, unified communications, and other meeting spaces. It features three inputs that support USB and dual HDMI sources and five USB device ports connect to peripherals such as USB cameras and microphones. The USB-C input provides video and audio, USB data, and 60 watts of power to charge a user's laptop computer. The HDMI output provides signal for the room display and supports resolutions up to 4K/60.

FETC | FETC State Network Alliance

The FETC State Network Alliance is a groundbreaking initiative designed to unite state edtech leaders in scaling innovation, amplifying professional learning, and sharing resources to strengthen the national education ecosystem. This alliance demonstrates how state leaders are leveraging technology to enhance teaching and learning while also cultivating resilient, future-ready communities. The FETC State Network Alliance will operate as a national network dedicated to promoting innovation, enhancing professional development, and showcasing exemplary practices in leveraging technology to support teaching and learning.

Hemco | Vented Demonstration Hood

The Vented Demonstration Hood is ideal for classroom experiments and demonstrations because of its viewing visibility from all four sides. An instructor can perform a science demonstration while the class gathers around and safely observes. The hood can also be used as a student workstation, or vented storage enclosure. A hinged viewing window or horizontal sliding glass panels allow easy access and user safety. An integral exhaust blower with a front-mounted switch safely exhausts fumes and odors. A vapor-proof light is factory-installed. A power cord is provided for immediate operation.

HMH | HMH AI Tools

HMH AI Tools integrate secure, purpose-built artificial intelligence with trusted curriculum to deliver personalized, high-quality instruction at scale. Designed for educators, these tools automate daily instructional tasks—like generating leveled reading passages, vocabulary scaffolds, and formative assessments—so teachers can focus more on student engagement and less on prep. Embedded in the HMH ecosystem and aligned with HMH curriculum, HMH AI Tools ensure seamless integration with district instructional materials and professional learning strategies.

Kramer | MTX3-88-PR Pro 8x8 4K60

The MTX3-88-PR Pro 8x8 4K60 is an all-in-one matrix that offers high-performance video processing and fast-switching scaling capabilities for AV needs in enterprise, education and government settings and beyond. This single-box solution is rack-efficient and reduces installation complexity, required cabling and potential points of failure. It is ideal for sharing local and remote content.

LG | LG CreateBoard Core, LG Chromebox OPS, and LG CreateBoard Prep

Among the new offerings on display at ISTELive 2025, LG is debuting LG CreateBoard Core, tailored for schools that prefer to operate with their own content management systems and operating platforms. Also featured is the new LG Chromebox OPS for LG CreateBoard, which transforms the display into a large-format Chromebook, enabling seamless integration with Google-based learning environments. Rounding out the innovations is LG CreateBoard Prep, a new, free interactive lesson-planning software that allows teachers to prepare and collaborate from virtually anywhere using a laptop or tablet.

Magewell | Pro Convert IP to USB

The new Pro Convert IP to USB is a plug-and-play device that enables computers, including laptops, to capture an NDI®, NDI® HX or other streaming sources through a USB interface with no external power required. It is ideal for use in conference rooms, production studios, and in environments where software does not natively support NDI or other IP protocols and/or the installation of additional software is not permitted.

Microsoft | Learning Zone, plus AI updates to Microsoft 365 Copilot and Copilot+ PCs

Microsoft’s new solutions to support educators include: Microsoft Learning Zone, the first education-focused Copilot+ PC app, allows educators to quickly create, share, and track personalized and interactive learning activities right from their Copilot+ PC; Teach module in Microsoft 365 Copilot App, a hub that brings the latest functionality for AI-powered features for educators in one place, allowing for easy lesson planning, material creation and modification, and more; and Study Guides in Copilot Notebooks, a tool to help students, or educators, turn materials into organized study material with engaging learning activities such as podcasts, flashcards, quizzes and more.

Nearpod | AI Literacy Lessons and Question and Lesson generators

Nearpod has launched a comprehensive package of AI literacy lessons that introduce students to AI concepts and technology, building a strong foundation for responsible and ethical AI use. Nearpod’s 21st Century Readiness Program equips educators with tools to teach AI literacy, digital citizenship, and other essential future-ready skills. The new AI generators can save teachers time by instantly generating high-quality interactive instructional materials customized by topic, grade, and standard. This gives teachers endless ways to introduce and re-teach content in order to differentiate their instruction.

Nureva | HDX Series

The HDX series is a response to the costs and complexities faced by IT managers who need to support a growing set of in-room audio requirements beyond full-room microphone pickup. This includes high-quality in-room media playback, voice amplification, voice lift, assistive listening, lesson capture, meeting recording and support for AI agents. The HDX series delivers this functionality in an integrated, cost-effective solution that doesn’t require special expertise to install, set up or maintain.

Philips | Unite LED 6000 Series All In One

The new foldable and height-adjustable 135” Philips Unite LED 6000 Series All In One combines cutting-edge Chip on Board (COB) technology with a fine 1.5mm pixel pitch for ultra reliable, ultra sharp visuals, from spectacular video to intricate meeting room presentations. It ensures content is always presented as intended, delivering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and uniform brightness.

Roland | BN2-30 Printer/Cutter and BD-12 UV Flatbed Printer

The BN2-30 is an eco-solvent printer/cutter with a maximum material width of 30 inches (736 mm), and the BD-12, a UV direct-to-object printer with a print bed of 12.2” x 8.3” (305 mm x 210 mm) that can accommodate items slightly larger than A4 in size. The BD-12 UV flatbed printer is designed for high-definition printing on three-dimensional objects up to A4 size and four inches (102 mm) in height, such as smartphone covers, notepads, sports memorabilia, giftware, fashion accessories, and promotional items. Optional rotary devices are also available that allow users to print easily and effectively on cylindrical objects up to two inches (50 mm) in diameter, such as cosmetics and travel items.

SMART | SMART Board GX Plus

Packed with premium features to help schools deliver modern learning experiences without the premium price, the GX Plus stands as a purpose-built innovation for both teachers and school leaders. It features a refreshed design, built-in tools that spark learning, and greater energy efficiency than competing models. Other key features include: EDLA licensed Android 14 experience with better security, speed, and access to the Google Play Store; upgradable to future versions of Android for superior longevity; integration with Google for Education and Microsoft 365 apps; 4K Ultra HD resolution with responsive multi-touch interactivity; and much more.

Sphero | Sphero Edu App upgrades

Sphero has introduced Python programming in the Sphero Edu App, giving students the tools to explore one of today’s most widely used and in-demand coding languages. Python joins JavaScript as an advanced programming option, helping learners bridge visual coding with text-based syntax. A new Python lesson collection for BOLT+, focused on robotics and physical computing, is now available in Sphero Central for students in grades 7–10. These lessons move programming off the screen and into real-world applications while helping students understand Python fundamentals. An educator guide supports each lesson with background info, instructional tips, and extension ideas.

Targus | VersaVu Bluetooth Keyboard Cases

The Targus VersaVu Bluetooth Keyboard Cases are versatile, slim keyboard cases made to upgrade the latest iPad models to a laptop-like experience, while keeping them protected. Standout features include: patented 360-degree rotation for seamless portrait and landscape viewing, an adjustable kickstand for comfortable typing, viewing, sketching, and reading angles, a full QWERTY backlit keyboard with large multi-touch trackpad and media keys, and mil-spec drop-rated protection made from high-quality materials and components.

Vernier | Go Direct 2-Axis Force Plate and Go Direct Turbidity Sensor

Vernier Science Education recently launched two new wireless sensors—the Go Direct 2-Axis Force Plate and the Go Direct Turbidity Sensor—for high school- and college-level science. These sensors can be used in a wide range of hands-on investigations to help students easily collect and analyze scientific data as they make real-world connections. The Go Direct 2-Axis Force Plate combines the Go Direct Force Plate and the Lateral Force Accessory into a single wireless tool, while the Go Direct Turbidity Sensor helps students analyze various water samples as part of water quality, water treatment, and short- and long-term water pollution investigations.

• Edtech Show & Tell

All these services integrate the science of reading best practices. Amira can also adhere to each district’s chosen reading curriculum.

Here’s a quick look at everything you need to know about Amira Learning.

What Is Amira Learning?

Amira Learning’s system is built upon research led by Jack Mostow, a professor at Carnegie Mellon who helped pioneer AI literacy education. Amira uses Claude AI to power its AI features, but these features are different than many other AI tools on the market. Instead of focusing on chat and generative response, Amira’s key feature is its advanced speech recognition and natural language processing capabilities, which allow the app to “hear” when a student is struggling and tailor suggestions to that student’s particular mistakes.

Though it’s not meant to replace a teacher, Amira provides real-time feedback and also helps teachers pinpoint where a student is struggling. For these reasons, Amira Learning is a favorite of education scientists and advocates for science of reading-based literacy instruction. The tool currently is used by more than 4 million students worldwide and across the U.S.

What Does The Research Say About Amira?

In one study by Columbia University, Amira's reading tutor demonstrated the ability to match human tutoring outcomes after just 30 sessions. Carnegie Mellon University researchers found that Amira’s read-out-loud tutoring approach significantly improved vocabulary in students.

These are just a few of many studies touting the benefits of the Amira app. The company notes that other studies have shown Amira outperforming human students at scale.

Amira is also constantly improving as AI continues to evolve. Amira is working with Digital Promise on a nearly $10 million grant-funded study to boost AI’s ability to recognize children’s speech overall, particularly children who speak English as a second language

How Much Does Amira Cost?

Amira is available through district-wide licensing, with flexible options specific to meet the scale and needs of each implementation.

Amira Learning Tips and Tricks

Check With Other Districts That Have Used Amira

Amira is used by schools in all 50 states, so if the tool is new to you, reach out to a district that has used it nearby and to their results. Utah has published a report on Amira’s efficacy in schools in the state, and in 2023 and 2014, the published data demonstrates that students who use Amira made significant gains.

Share Data With Students and Parents

A tool such as Amira is only effective if students use it. Reminding students and their parents that students who read with Amira outperform those who don’t can help encourage them to take advantage of the benefits Amira offers.

Read Aloud With Amira

One of the aspects that makes Amira unique is its ability to listen to students as they read. This feature is one of the best examples of AI edtech around, say some researchers.

Let Amira Help You As a Teacher

Using Amira as an AI assistant that can help coach students and identify areas they need to improve on can help make a literacy class more effective.

• AI Reading Tutors Are Already in Schools. Digital Promise Wants To Make Them Better
• The Science of Reading: What Teachers Need to Know

The idea behind finding that sweet spot on price and power, is to ensure your school can afford to get as many machines as possible, without scrimping on performance.

It's worth considering what these are being used for as that could mean you buy a mix. Some more powerful machines for taxing gaming that requires the fastest performance, and more affordable options for those that have less pressure to perform -- such as those with lots of processing going on in the cloud, for example.

You may also want to think about setting aside budget for accessories such as gaming keyboard and mouse, headphones, webcams, and even gaming chairs.

This guide lays out the best affordable gaming computers for schools available right now.

The best affordable gaming computers for schools

1. HP Victus 15L: Best overall affordable gaming computer

The HP Victus 15L is the perfect combination of gaming specific setup for performance power while keeping that price tag well under the $1,000 mark. Despite this packing in plenty of power, it also remains relatively compact in a home console-sized setup that can make fitting many into a small space a possibility.

Inside you get all the grunt of an Intel Core 10th-gen processor backed by Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 Super graphics, up to 16B of RAM, and up to 1TB of storage. More than enough for most gaming needs in school then.

So when it comes to getting the most out of your space, and your budget, this is an option that does that really very well. And it's worth keeping in mind this comes from HP, which is a reputable brand that offers good support and warranty cover, so you have that longer term peace of mind also.

As a bonus this also offers a good selection of ports on the front of the machine, so it can be easily interfaced by students using their personal hardware, or for accessing external drives more easily than on if these were on the back.

An excellent affordable gaming computer for schools with a good selection of variation in specs so you can find the ideal price and power point that meets your needs.

2. Refract Gaming Jade: Best custom build

The Refract Gaming Jade is a custom-built machine that is setup by Overclockers to offer a full-on PC gaming experience without the usual steep price tag. It's worth noting this is often available in sales so you can get it for a lower price if you keep your eyes peeled.

This looks great, with see-through sides, LED lighting, and fantastic framing. But that goes further as it produces superb-looking gaming visuals too, right up to 4K quality thanks to the hardware. This usefully comes in one configuration, making things very simple when buying.

Everything is powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 7700 and backed by Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 Ti graphics, 32GB of DDR5 RAM, and a 1TB SSD. That makes this an entry-level gaming PC but one that should offer more than enough power for schools. It's also simple to setup and use with room to upgrade, which makes it a more future-proof option than many at this price and spec level.

It's worth noting that this is air-cooled only, so if you have a lot of these in a room it could get quite noisy. Although since most gamers have headsets on anyway this may not be much of an issue.

3. Lenovo Legion Tower 5i: Best for multi-use

The Lenovo Legion Tower 5i is around the $1,000 mark yet offers powerful gaming specs and works well for wider PC uses, too. It can be good for gaming while also providing enough grunt for video and image-editing purposes.

The tower is an eye-catcher with its glass side and multi-colored LED lighting setup. Thanks to plenty of ventilation holes on the front, this can be cooled efficiently so you get powerful performance at the 1080p-quality level, which 77fps levels on the likes of Cyberpunk 2077.

Don't expect this to offer ray-tracing level performance as that's rare at this price point without suffering on FPS performance. Instead, you can enjoy quality graphical gameplay from the Intel Core i7 CPU backed by Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Ti with up to 16GB of RAM and a combination 1TB HDD and 512GB SSD for storage capacity and speed combined.

4. Acer Predator Orion 3000: Best compact model

The Acer Predator Orion 3000 manages to keep the price low while also making sure the footprint of this machine is minimal. As such, this is a compact PC that won't take up too much room while still offering plenty of power at that sub-$1,000 price point. You can go higher than that with specs, if needed though.

At the base you get an Intel Core i5 11th-Gen chip backed by Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 graphics card, and up to 16GB of DDR4 RAM plus 512GB or 1TB SSD.

This system uses the company's FrostBlade cooling fans to make sure the setup remains chill even under the most intense pressure. This runs Windows with gaming-friendly features such as the Auto HDR to ensure the dynamic range is as vast as possible to give you the most realistic picture quality.

On top of all that you have a glass side with LED lighting for a truly powerful gaming machine look, plus plenty of space for future upgrades.

5. HP Omen 25L: Best performance on a budget

The HP Omen 25L is a model that stands out when it comes to design and performance. While still keeping the price low this manages to offer superb performance for 1080p gaming, meaning high frame rates on pretty much anything your throw at this machine.

You have an RBG LED lighting setup on the glass-sided main unit that features clean lines and a minimalism that really makes this look fantastic. It also offers super simple tool-free access, making it a good model for upgrades and changes whenever needed.

The top quality performance comes at the base configuration but you can spend more and get that even more powerful, if needed. On entry you get plenty with that AMD Ryzen 5 5600G CPU, AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT GPU, 8GB RAM, and 256GB SSD.

6. Asus ROG Ally: Best handheld

The Asus ROG Ally is a gaming computer compact enough to hold in your hands. This is a really great option if mobility is an important requirement, as this can go anywhere.

Thanks to a built-in 7-inch IPS 120Hz 1080p display flanked by controls and speakers, this is an all-in-one setup. Yet, despite that size, it still packs in full-powered gaming specs.

That's due to a powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip running the show with the backing of an RDNA 3 GPU, a massive 16GB of DDR5 RAM, and a plentiful 512GB SSD.

Despite having all this, and in such a small package, it still manages to keep the price down, making it one of the most affordable options on this list.

7. MSI Codex R2: Best for power without compromises

The MSI Codex R2 is a powerful-yet-affordable gaming machine that offers 1080p-quality gaming and even 1440p performance without making many compromises at all.

This is thanks to plenty of grunt in the form of that Intel Core i5-14400F processor that's backed by an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 GPU as well as 16GB dual channel DDR5 RAM and SSD storage.

This also looks the part with that RGB lighting setup that shows off the plentiful hardware as well as the space for more if needed.

8. Zhic Gaming PC: Best super cheap

The Zhic Gaming PC is a super affordable option that is sub-$500 at time of publishing. Despite that low price, it still manages to offer decent specs, including plentiful RAM at 16GB and a hefty 1TB of SSD storage. Plus, it's powered by the AMD Ryzen 5 5600G CPU and backed by AMD Radeon Vega graphics.

This is where money is clearly saved, as the graphics are built into the CPU rather than having a dedicated separate GPU. As such, this will be more limited than the other machines on this list in terms of top performance power.

That said, you can upgrade as required, so adding in a GPU to this setup may work out more affordable, and powerful, than some of the pre-built options on this list.

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The company behind this appears excited to say that this represents a "new paradigm for education." A bold claim, but one that appears to be backed up by some very well thought out, designed, and built VR experiences.

The end result is a way to teach STEM subjects through physical experiences, rather than simply having to conceive what numbers and concepts might represent.

The platform was founded by Anurupa Ganguly, an MIT engineer turned educator. After working with districts for over a decade she decided we needed a new way to teach, and Prisms was born.

This guide aims to help you assess if Prisms could be a useful tool for your class.

What is Prisms?

Prisms is a digital learning platform that uses VR and AR to help teach math and science concepts in a more physical way.

The idea is to allow students to kinesthetically manipulate numbers around them in space to see how that can change and affect them -- before applying that to pen-and-paper work.

If a student can learn a STEM concept physically -- their way -- so that they can better grasp it at the outset, the idea is that they can then use that in future, and build on that more easily as they progress.

Using VR experiences, students can manipulate mathematical concepts while keeping focused on a real-world task, combining the two naturally so they can learn how it works through actual use.

How does Prisms work?

Prisms uses VR so you will need to have students wearing a headset and using the motion controls to interact with the augmented reality experience.

Currently, Prisms offers a service that not only delivers the software but also the hardware, which includes providing Pico and Meta Quest VR kits to schools. It is also working on Apple Vision Pro integration at time of publishing.

Educators are given guidance and training on both the use of the VR kits as well as working with the software. This includes ways to transition from the virtual learning environment to paper and pen work.

In one example, students are asked to put trash in a waste can before being taken to a virtual dump site to see that waste building. They are then in a virtual x-y space where they can manipulate the amount of trash coming in versus the capacity to deal with that, in order to see how too much can be a problem. At the same time they're learning how to formalize concepts of residuals in math.

What are the best Prisms features?

Prisms focuses on specific areas so teachers are able to work on a specific scale with students, based on the curriculum and their individual needs. While that covers wider areas such as Algebra 1, Geometry, Advanced Algebra, and both High School Chemistry and Biology, there's more.

Within grades 7 and 8 there are specific math concepts, including fractions, surface area, probability, ratios, volume, angles, functions, inequalities, and plenty more.

Prisms modules are created to fit into a teacher's calendar with pacing to suit. The idea being to teach bottle-neck topics, not just to review these.

A full day of professional development is available for teachers to understand how the Prisms idea works, to play with the hardware, learn the lesson cycle, get supporting curriculum materials, discover the Teacher Dashboard, and more.

Support is then ongoing with round-the-clock access to coaches and tech support for teachers.

All modules are available in six languages as well as English: Spanish, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, Vietnamese, Mandarin, and Russian.

How much does Prisms cost?

Prisms offers hardware, software, and support all as part of a package for classrooms and schools.

The basic setup gets you 35 VR headsets and chargers, at $20,000 per classroom. The software is then charged on use at $12-$14 per student, depending on scale.

Prisms best tips and tricks

Use the support
Go to the training and use continuing support to get the most out of all this platform has to offer both students and teachers.

Lead with this
Use these VR experiences as a way to teach new STEM concepts in which students can physically play and discover themselves.

Monitor with the Dashboard
Use the Teacher Dashboard to see exactly what students are seeing in order to help them along when needed and monitor understanding.

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The idea, according to CEO and former English and math teacher Josh Poskin, is to use intelligent video recordings to monitor and improve teaching in class.

Crucially, this works via an app that be used on smartphones and laptops, so it should be easily accessible for many schools. And it's something teachers can setup and have running themselves as part of monitoring performance. Since the app works right there, feedback is available immediately, making this a powerful tool.

This guide aims to explain all you need to know so you can decide if TeachFX is a good fit for your class.

What is TeachFX?

TeachFX is an app that works on smartphones and laptops, using recording hardware, to analyze teachers -- as they work -- and provide feedback.

It's worth mentioning that this is about helping teachers improve, not enabling monitoring. As such, all the data is owned by the teachers, and reports cannot be accessed by other teachers or administrators. Although aggregated data across a school is helpfully available.

Talking about just this, Poskin says: "Let’s say a school is focused on getting more open-ended questions asked in their classrooms. We’ll show that as an aggregated thing, but never on an individual teacher level because we just philosophically believe it’s so important for anybody’s learning and growth that you feel safe doing it."

The app has been around since 2016, and after a brief scare during COVID times, it's now making $2.5 million per year and just secured $10 million in Series A funding.

How does TeachFX work?

TeachFX can be downloaded and installed on devices so teachers can login themselves. Once they do so, they are then able to set to record before beginning a lesson.

Various data entry points are available before and after, to supplement everything that is picked up by the app's ability to monitor the lesson.

After a lesson, teachers can then go through the data to see how they taught and to be given insights into ways they may considering improving.

The app will be able, for example, to tell a teacher a percentage split of how much time they spent talking versus how much time was given to the class to take part. A simple metric, but a powerful way to find the right balance that best suits the lesson and the students.

As mentioned, the over-arching numbers can then be seen across the school as a good way to address any focus that may be needed for affective change.

What are the best TeachFX features?

TeachFX is super easy to setup and use, with the app doing a lot of the work both recording data points and offering potential actions to help improvements.

This is a goal-orientated platform through which teachers can set goals, track progress as they work toward that, and ultimately, see how they achieve that goal and what affect it has. All that should equate to an empowering experience for teachers that also helps students.

Inquiry-based personal learning workshops are also available to help build on instructional capacity as well as strengthen collective teacher efficacy.

From a school or district level, this allows for wider improvements as you can share your situation with the company, go to customized workshops, and then begin with specific goals or for all teachers based on all the learning.

The company says this only requires five hours of time invested, versus 49 in other evidence-based systems, yet you get a 25% impact on student achievement versus 21% in other cases.

How much does TeachFX cost?

TeachFX does not openly advertise its costs since it works on a bespoke basis and at varying scales.

However, a small school will typically pay about $10,000 for a subscription, with a medium school paying $20,000, and the top-end larger schools getting charged $30,000.

TeachFX best tips and tricks

Start smaller
Go for a demo or trial to see if you like how this works before committing to the full service.

Check with teachers
As a school or district, be sure to check if teachers want to take part in this before purchasing.

Keep track
Spot trends and data changes to learn what works and what doesn't to improve even faster year after year.

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This is a huge resource of journals, books, images, primary sources, and more. Crucially, it's all available mostly for free and uses dynamic search functionality to help you find what's needed.

The idea here is to offer teachers and students a greater depth to research and projects thanks to the primary sources available. This represents a fantastic way for students to learn how to discover their own path and cite for work, all of which should lead to more original end results.

This guide aims to explain all you need to know about JSTOR for your class.

What is JSTOR?

JSTOR is a website that houses an expanse of primary sources for use in projects, essays, papers, and beyond.

This repository houses all these useful documents and images in a well-arranged fashion, much like a library. This allows for deep dive searching to find just what's needed, and with all the proper references for citation, too.

While this can be a useful place to visit in search of a specific paper or essay, it's also possible to browse using categories like collections in order to discover new avenues of potential learning.

Nearly all the journals featured are peer-reviewed. Although there are items that are far older than today's standard of peer reviews, which is worth keeping in mind.

How does JSTOR work?

JSTOR offers access to older archived materials, and as such, is well-arranged for easy search access. You can login and have features such as saving items, or you can dive right into the search bar to hunt down what you're after, without being a member.

Use the basic search or access the advanced version to search with more specifics in mind. These include narrowing to certain article types, languages, publication dates, ISBN number, and more.

You can also use a journal filter to narrow down the search for specific areas, such as Art & Art History, for example -- where the number of titles in that section are shown in brackets.

What are the best JSTOR features?

JSTOR uses advanced and simple search options to make everything highly accessible to everyone. While the advanced version can be helpful for students and teachers seeking specific journals, the simpler version is a great way for younger students to start using the service.

The platform also offers a section aimed at educators with resources to help enhance teaching. These include a resource library, webinars on specific areas, real-world teaching tools, reports about faculty, lesson plans, video recordings, and more.

It also has a community that educators can join to share and learn with others, all aimed at helping boost student engagement.

At time of publishing there are more than 100,000 ebooks, 2,800 top scholarly journals, over 50,000 open research reports, 2+ million images, and more than 2 million primary sources.

The service also offers DfR, Data for Research, which is a text-mining program for text analysis and digital humanities research.

How much does JSTOR cost?

JSTOR is a not-for-profit that offers content totally free up to 100 articles per month with no adverts. You don't need to sign up with any personal details to get accessing everything right away, however, if you plan on using it extensively, you need to create a personal account, which is limited to 100 articles per month. More information is available here.

JSTOR best tips and tricks

Group up
Have students work in groups to seek specific papers and quotes you have directed them toward, so they understand how to use the search.

Use the resources
Take the lesson plans, images, real-world teaching materials, and more, and integrate it all into your teaching plans for richer lessons.

Keep up
Join the community and see the developments and new ways to engage students as and when they develop, with you as a part of it all.

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The company says its free resources are used by 5 million students every month. It offers a wealth of information, including slides for teachers and how-to guides for students.

This covers a range of services from proofreading and editing to plagiarism checks and citation generation. The idea being that students should be able to get to a top-grade paper by enhancing their efforts using this service.

This guide aims to explain all you need to know about Scribbr in your class.

What is Scribbr?

Scribbr is a paper-writing aid, backed by real people as well as AI resources, that aims to help students write the best possible papers they can manage. It also represents a helpful resources for teachers to use when grading, and to help students write their papers.

The service is built to cover a few main services, which include: proofreading and editing, plagiarism and AI content checking, citation generation, paraphrasing, and more.

It offers more than 300 helpful articles, at time of publishing, that touch on topics that can assist students, including academic writing, plagiarism, citing sources, and more.

The system works with a variety of papers, from essays and theses to PhD dissertations and research proposals. The idea being that this should help get it perfect before handing in to be read and assessed.

How does Scribbr work?

Scribbr comprises several different tools with the human-powered ones in the more premium offering as well as some more AI-powered services in the free tools. If you opt for the paid submission, then your paper can receive the human checks, which generally get turned around in a 24-hour period, although it can take as long as a week, depending on how long your paper is.

While the human checks are well-suited to proofreading, editing, spelling, grammar, and citations, the AI tools can work well for these, too. Although its the citation generator that works very well. This allows you to have your essay formatted with citations in a few clicks, and even lets you select the output style, including MLA, APA, Chicago, Harvard, and others.

The plagiarism detector is a useful tool for teachers as it uses advanced dynamic databases to work out any attempts at plagiarism as well as AI detection being possible.

What are the best Scribbr features?

Scribbr uses a plaigarism checker that's powered by Turnitin as a way to offer excellent accuracy. Thanks to this being used in multiple libraries and databases, it has wide-reaching access to materials so the results are generally very accurate and reliable.

The use of AI tools also allows for use by those who aren't able to pay for the human touches, or are limited on time. These can also be a useful second line of defense, perhaps running a paper through these first before sending in for a human edit to ensure total perfection -- or as close as you can get in real life.

The multilingual offerings of this service are also worth noting as this might be primarily aimed at English writers and speakers but goes beyond. You can take a look at the many editors working with Scribbr to see the varied language speakers available.

Customer support is also excellent, which can be seen from the Trustpilot page alone, where all concerns are addressed and all issues are mended by the attentive team.

The Summarizer tool is really helpful when researching as it can make ingestion of large and complex bodies of information far quicker and more easy.

How much does Scribbr cost?

Scribbr offers a selection of free resources as well as its paid-for premium services that are charged for depending on the paper.

The rates for papers are $19.95 for a small document up to 7,500 words, $29.95 for a medium document up to 50,000 words, and $39.95 for a large document of more than 50,000 words.

Scribbr best tips and tricks

Start with AI
Use the free tools first including AI and then submit if you want a two-layer approach to catch any possible mistakes.

Mark with AI checks
Use the AI checker to ensure students aren't cheating and show them how it works so they realize AI can't be used as a shortcut.

Use the Summarizer
Have the Summarizer tool condense papers when researching to cover more ground if working through lots of learning material.

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I recently tried using Scite as an AI-powered research assistant for the work I do both as an educator and journalist.

Overall, I’m impressed with Scite’s ability to quickly find and summarize research papers from a diverse range of academic disciplines. It does this quicker than other AI research tools I’ve used, and has an easy-to-use interface. The only downside is that it requires a $12 per month subscription, and like all AI tools, won’t immediately find all the best sources on a given topic.

Therefore, whether you’re a student or academic using this, you’ll likely still have to do additional digging and searching for sources the old-fashioned way. This isn’t always a bad thing. In fact, one of the things I love about Scite is it encourages you through the research process by eliminating some of the barriers or difficulties around getting started. In other words, it is the type of AI tool that me and many other educators are always talking about wanting: one that facilitates rather than replaces thinking.

Here’s a closer look at everything Scite does well and where there is room for improvement.

What Is Scite and How Does It Work?

Scite works like a beefed-up AI-powered academic search engine.

I asked it “Can you summarize research on the use of AI chatbots as tutors in education?” With a minute or two, it provided an accurate overview of the current research into this topic with citations linking to the latest studies.

The summary noted that “AI chatbots are increasingly recognized for their ability to engage students in a personalized manner,” and shared the researchers making this claim and their evidence for it. Then it summarized some of the concerns researchers have.

Scite noted that “Despite the promising advantages, there is also critical discourse surrounding the implementation of AI chatbots in education," and that some researchers "caution about the hype surrounding AI chatbots, suggesting that while they exhibit considerable potential, their actual effectiveness in replacing traditional pedagogical methods requires comprehensive evaluation.”

Scite also shows you how often a paper has been cited, and lets you quickly view this citation, so you can tell if it was cited in a positive or negative way.

What Does Scite Do Well?

The Scite features described in the previous section are a really welcome resource for someone conducting a deep dive into any academic topic. This quick snapshot of the overall consensus around a topic is a wonderful place to start research. I would definitely recommend it for this purpose to students and fellow instructors.

The ability to quickly assess how often the paper has been cited, and in what context, gives you an almost instant sense of how the paper is viewed by other experts in the same field, which is so important given how one paper can sometimes find results that are seemingly amazing but can be so out of whack with other findings on the topic that it strains credibility.

Of course, there are some caveats. Scite does not have access to every academic paper, so students, in particular, need to be reminded not to begin and end their research with Scite.

Scite is not the only helpful AI research tool available, but it provides a quicker and more concise overview of research than others I’ve used, including STORM and OpenAI’s deep research tools. Both STORM and OpenAI’s research tend to provide longer and more in-depth overviews about any topic and write something based upon that topic for you. This might be preferable in some settings, but for me, the shorter overviews Scite provides are more useful and do what I want: help me find relevant research while leaving the actual writing to me or my students.

What Are Scite’s Limitations

Scite is a great tool, but it should not be your only research tool.

On some topics I investigated, I found several important studies that Scite missed or deemphasized. The tool also has a tendency to move toward centrist views on every issue. This is probably for the best overall, but doing that potentially risks overlooking some important minority viewpoints. And all summaries, even human-written ones, by their nature can gloss over nuance, particularly in discussions of complex topics, which most academic inquiries tend to examine.

So if I were to get approval from my university’s security and IT team to recommend this tool, I’d definitely remind students of these concerns. I'd also stress that while Scite can be helpful to use, it doesn’t replace conducting additional research on their own.

How Much Does Scite Cost?

Scite costs $12 per month for individual users. Additionally, it offers institutional subscriptions for companies and universities, but those are custom and based upon the number of licenses needed and other factors.

Bottom Line: Is Scite a Good Tool For Teaching?

Overall, Scite is a helpful and engaging research tool that can likely benefit educators, academics, and students. It requires a monthly submission but seems worth it to those who regularly conduct research.

Ultimately, I found Scite to be one of the best AI research assistant tools around.

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• 10 Free AI Trainings and Certifications for Educators

With the huge wealth of code teaching tools out there specifically designed for education, the main problem is finding the right one for your needs as an educator and for the students that are going to learn.

This guide has compiled only the very best tools to teach coding so you can pick the ideal one for your specific needs. That includes coding with gaming, coding with music, coding in AR and VR, coding with physical gadgets and plenty more.

Crucially, there are a mix of paid and free options in this list, and most work using a browser -- so these should be widely accessible.

Best tools to teach coding

Best to teach coding overall

Kodable

Kodable is a superb example of combining gaming and coding into a fun and engaging platform that's great for a wide age and ability range. The idea here is to not only teach coding -- from K+ -- but also to cement that learning through the games that encourage practice.

While the front of this is cartoon character-filled fun, behind the scenes students are learning JavaScript that can be used in a future coding career. The ability to build games also makes this a really empowering experience for students who want to learn but also create.

Teachers have a helpful dashboard with lots of information on student progress, which allows them to intervene when needed, but also to control difficulty levels.

With plenty of free resources, as well as premium plans, this offers something for everyone and is a really great way to get started with coding.

READ: Kodable guide

Best real-world coding

OctoStudio

OctoStudio is a free coding app that combines coding and smartphones. Created by MIT Media Lab, this uses a phone's audio and video recording smarts to build media using real-world recordings that can then be manipulated using the coding style.

Usefully, this allows kids to get creative on their own devices while also learning code passively as they use it to make their creations. This works using Scratch-based coding, so it's useful in the real world. Students can make shaking the phone activate a sound or turn on a light, for example.

Thanks to 20 languages coverage, easy-to-use menus, and the ability to share simply, this is a really great way to teach and have students learn.

READ: OctoStudio guide

Best for computer science

CodeHS

The CodeHS offering is designed specifically for schools and fits into the curriculum requirements, making it ideal for computer science teachers and students. Aimed at high school students, this offers far more complex learning.

The platform offers a suite of teaching tools that cover more than 100 classes. This uses a sandbox with output window so students can see how their code works, directly.

Usefully, this teaches a range of coding languages including JavaScript, Python, C++, and HTML. Teachers can monitor student progress, or lack thereof, so interventions are possible at the right moment. Tutors, on the paid version, are a useful addition to help students get support while using this platform.

READ: CodeHS guide

Best for fantasy gaming

Ozaria

Learning with Ozaria is more like playing a full-on fantasy game, and as such, means the practicing and cementing of skills is near effortless for students.

Despite this being a proper game, with its own universe and rich character stories, this also fits in with the curriculum to help teachers.

CodeCombat is the game being playing in this world, and through it, students learn Python and JavaScript from grade 3 right to 12 -- as individuals or in groups.

The teacher dashboard is there to monitor progress and even make assessments using a dedicated tool. Everything focuses on SEL to help build integrity while learning coding.

READ: Ozaria guide

Best creative

Elementari

Elementari works as a creative artistic project creation tool that also teaches coding at the same time. In this way it's a super effective way to offer coding to those kids who might prefer a more creative focus over the logical coding teaching many platforms feature.

Usefully, students can edit projects created by others, helping them spark ideas. Lots of media is available to pick from, including images, music, and illustrations. They then create a story using the coding back end to bring it all to life.

READ: Elementari guide

Best for beginners

Ready Maker

Ready Maker uses games and very simple coding-style controls to introduce coding to beginners and younger students. The drag-and-drop style interactions are super simple to learn, and since this is all about making games, it can offer a creative outlet.

This uses Unity code, so it's good for app stores publishing, yet starts super simple so it's easy to pick-up. Lots of helpful tutorials are available, and the Remix button allows students to work with something already created, so they can ease into it.

This also offers more complexity, and games that are made can be played too, with lots from which to pick.

READ: Ready Maker guide

Best for Apple

Swift Playgrounds

The Swift Playgrounds platform is designed to be fun and easy to get started with, and will teach code specifically for Apple devices.

This gamifies learning on iOS and Mac devices by which students can learn the Swift coding language from as young as age four. Students can create games with the platform and use previews to give any a try, while also seeing directly how the code affects end results.

Students can select code chunks or input directly if they know the language a bit more. Thanks to guidance and collecting gems, it creates a pathway that students feel progress along and can come back more often to get further.

READ: Swift Playgrounds guide

Best for AR and VR

CoSpaces Edu

CoSpaces Edu is a great way to teach coding skills along with animation for AR and VR creations. Working across many devices, this is widely accessible and works from grade three right up to 12.

This uses drag-and-drop style controls to let students manipulate objects that can then be coded to have actions in the 3D space. Students can build on desktop then experience it directly on a mobile device.

The layout makes for a great way to teach collaboratively by which groups work on creating their own virtual space and situation for others to play in and enjoy.

READ: CoSpaces Edu guide

Best for younger students

Tynker

Tynker is a fantastic option for younger students who are being welcomed into the world of coding. This uses fun cartoon characters, lots of colors, and games to immerse young users.

Aimed at age five and up, this uses block-based coding to teach the logic of code and coding lessons. This develops as students progress, and also teaches HTML, JavaScript, Python, and CSS coding at a more advanced level, so it can be useful for real-world scenarios.

Lots of community-created projects are available, and students can share theirs easily, making it great for collaboration and assessments.

READ: Tynker guide

Best for teachers

Blackbird

Blackbird is a good option for teachers new to coding who want to teach it. This tool, which is web-based and easily accessible, also features a training program for educators to learn the system and how best to teach coding with it's offerings.

This is aimed at middle schoolers and uses JavaScript as the coding language. That makes this specifically focused on getting kids jobs in coding. The Show Me option is a great way to help students, guiding them to the correct answers if unsure -- without the need for teacher intervention.

Thanks to a submissions section, this is built for classwork, allowing students to send coding to teachers for assessment and feedback.

READ: Blackbird guide

Best for curriculum

Codementum

The Codementum platform is a great way to teach coding in a curriculum-aligned way. This offers a tool that has a dashboard for teachers to monitor student progress and to assign future work, all in one place.

This is game-based, so students feel as if they're in a self-paced gaming experience while also learning Python and JavaScript coding options. Since this all works on ability levels, rather than ages, it will help progress students from their specific experience level.

Helpfully, this is broken down in courses that help make teaching easier. Thanks to AI and machine learning sections, this is very up to date and ideal for preparing students for the future job sector.

READ: Codementum guide

Best for robots

Sam Labs

The Sam Labs coding platform uses both software-based teaching as well as hardware. That makes this a great option for teaching how coding can have real-world effects and is ideal for more hands-on students that want to see things working as a result of their code.

Use the company's own blocks or others, such as LEGO, to have coding actions create affects. This is great for STEAM learning, allowing students to get creative by using the app and blocks with DC motors, LEDs, audio devices, buttons, and more.

This is superb for scaling up to add complexity and with lesson packs, activities, and guidance videos, it can be very easy to teach with even for those educators without much coding experience.

READ: Sam Labs guide

Best for fun

CodeMonkey

The CodeMonkey tool is a really fun way to teach coding to younger students and those who might otherwise be difficult to get engaged. This uses both block-based and text coding in a way that's ideal for scaffolding learning across ages and abilities.

Students have a monkey main character that they work with across levels for fun continuity through the hundreds of levels. They play while learning Python or CoffeeScript as they go through the various puzzles.

Lesson planning tools are in the paid version that can help make this ideal for educators to use.

READ: CodeMonkey guide

Best for teaching broadly

Code Academy

The Code Academy platform teaches coding but it goes further to cover web development, computer science, and plenty more related skills. This covers beginner basics and moves through to more complex lessons with Java, C#, HTML/CSS, Python, and others all covered here.

The free version is great for getting started but there are paid plans to offer far more depth to the learning available. Career path projects are a great way to learn with specific results, such as a data scientist, for example, which is a 78-lesson plan.

This uses quizzes, projects, and more to make the learning fun and engaging. This is also self-paced and self-contained for focused learning and minimal teacher interaction needed.

READ: Code Academy guide

Best screen-free

Kaibot

The Kaibot offering aims to teach the basics of coding while also being a screen-free experience. This uses a robot with wheels and cards with commands. Line up the cards and the robot will 'read' these and carry out actions.

This is simple to use, hands-on, and is aimed at K-3 and older. The app offers more complex interactions and learnings, if you want to use a screen. That should mean a very natural move from the physical into the software end of coding, ideal for beginners.

READ: Kaibot guide

Best free

Blockly Games

Blockly Games is a fantastic free coding creation that teaches block-based coding basics as well as more complex ideas.

This no-frills offering uses puzzles and games to teach block- and Java-style text coding options. The idea is to offer logic and computational thinking to kids so they can naturally progress into more complex styles of coding.

Students can make their own games for a fun and empowering learning journey.

READ: Blockly Games guide

Best collaborative coding

Pencil Code

Pencil Code is all about visual and collaborative learning with this using CoffeeScript -- a pro level language -- to guide students into real-world coding that's genuinely useful. This extends to Java, HTML and CSS for a really comprehensive coding experience.

This is designed so students can work with each other, collaboratively, on projects -- as they may need too when working in this way later in life. They can code with music, drawings, games, and more.

This offers complex coding if needed and uses a creative space to help learners explore and grow naturally.

READ: Pencil Code guide

Enter Google Vids: A game-changing tool that puts AI-powered video creation into your hands, no filmmaking experience required.

Google Vids is part of the ever-expanding Google Workspace, and it's designed to help you transform written content into compelling video narratives. Whether you're flipping your classroom, promoting PD, or providing a visual version of text, Google Vids makes it simple.

Google Vids: From Article to Video

Let’s start with a real-world example of a Vid that I created after writing Navigate AI with New Risk Assessments from Common Sense Media for Tech & Learning. I wanted to share that piece in a way that was accessible and visually engaging for busy educators who may prefer video over text.

Using Google Vids, I created this short 2-minute video version of the article that highlights the key points with narration, visuals, and music. No need for complicated software or video editing skills. It took minutes, not hours. This is what the future of educational communication looks like. Wondering how you can use it in your practice? Here are some ideas.

7 Ways to Use Google Vids in Education

Here are some ways educators can start using Google Vids:

1. Create A Template For Student Videos
   Build a Google Vids template that students can copy and customize. The Google Vids interface looks just like Slides, so adapting to the interface should be easy and students will love seeing their work as polished videos.
2. Promote Workshops And Professional Learning Opportunities
   Instead of sending a static flyer or email, create a short promo video highlighting what educators will learn, who it’s for, and how to register. This adds excitement, increases engagement, and makes your PD stand out.
3. Communicate With Families
   Turn text-heavy newsletters into videos that walk families through updates, field trips, or tech tutorials.
4. Blended And Flipped Learning Made Easy
   Create explainer videos for key concepts that students can access anytime, anywhere, perfect for asynchronous learning.
5. Turn A Student's Writing Assignment Into A Google Vid
   Bring written work to life by helping students transform their essays, narratives, or opinion pieces into visual presentations. This deepens their understanding of audience and purpose and enhances their communication skills and pride in authorship.
6. Showcase Portfolios
   Students or educators can create videos of digital portfolios or capstone projects, making reflections and achievements more powerful. A QR code can be added to the portfolio or project that links to the video.
7. Repurpose Existing Content
   Already have a blog post, article, or newsletter? Turn it into a video to expand its reach and make it more accessible to different audiences.

Get Started with Google Vids Today

You don’t need to figure this all out on your own. Here are three easy ways to learn how to use Google Vids like a pro:

• Easy Video Creation for Teaching and Learning (Google Skillshop): Provides an educator-focused training designed to help you bring lessons to life with video.
• Google Cloud Skills Boost: Offers a self-paced course to walk you through the ins and outs of Google Vids with hands-on practice.
• Google Help Center for Vids: Access detailed articles and how-tos for specific tasks or troubleshooting.

Currently, Google Vids is now generally available on all Business and Enterprise Workspace plans; see plans and pricing for organizations. Vids is not currently available to consumers.

Videos have a maximum of 10 minutes, and currently can only be created and edited via desktop, although finished videos can be viewed on any device.

Google Vids empowers educators to communicate ideas with clarity, creativity, and confidence. Whether teaching, leading professional learning, or driving education transformation, this intuitive, collaborative platform makes it easy to turn your writing into compelling visual stories.

• Navigate AI with New Risk Assessments from Common Sense Media
• Google’s NotebookLM: An Innovative Educator’s New Best Friend (and Podcasting Powerhouse!)

While you can easily hop onto a search engine to begin hunting down what you want to read, this tool uses AI to make that search more relevant. It is able to learn from your searches and reading to better make recommendations and refine searches to suit what you might want to read.

This is primarily aimed at academics working in a certain field or students studying something very specialized. But it can be used by anyone who takes an interest in a specific subject, including teachers looking for research the latest developments in a field.

This guide aims to explain all you need to know about ResearchRabbit and how it could help you.

What is ResearchRabbit?

ResearchRabbit is described as the Spotify of papers. That means this is adaptive and will learn from how you search to better make recommendations and offer bespoke search result in future.

This is more than just a search engine in that it uses AI to learn from the papers you pick as relevant before serving up more in that area that may be of interest.

One reason this is a powerful new way to research is that it can be very up to date in making recommendations. So you may discover literature that you didn't even know existed, or find something for which you were even looking. The end result should be an expanded knowledge in your field that comes naturally and easily.

How does ResearchRabbit work?

ResearchRabbit initially has you add some papers to your project, finding a few that are relevant to that particular effort.

You are then presented with a network of papers that link to your starting point. These are presented using a helpful graphic visualization that makes everything very clear. Papers are linked via lines, and you can see which area might be more relevant before diving deeper into that pool of options, essentially.

Add any relevant papers to your project based on with what you are presented. This should then offer more results that are relevant to your new selection in your project folder.

If you save your project, once you're finished compiling papers, you can be contacted in future by ResearchRabbit with any new papers it may find that are relevant to your interests, keeping you up to date as research is released.

What are the best ResearchRabbit features?

ResearchRabbit offers its unique Network View, which shows papers in a connected mass, with publication dates along the side. This allows you to drag and move relevant research so you can see which papers move with it. For example, you might want one side of an argument on one side of the page with papers for the opposition on the other side. This will then pull other related papers in the relevant direction, leaving you with the balanced options in the middle. And that's just one of many ways to use this.

This also works with authors, allowing you to view that network or dive deeper into their other works -- or to step across into linked work from other authors involved in that paper.

Usefully, you can share your project collections. This can make for a great way for teachers to share a selection of materials with a class, or for co-workers to share with one another easily.

The fact you get sent updates when relevant papers are released is a powerful part of this tool's appeal. It's like having a research assistant that leaves new literature in your inbox ready for you as and when it becomes available, all to review at your leisure.

It offers a community element through which you can comment on papers and collaborate on projects to research together. This adds another layer to how discovery can happen to better help your chances of finding relevant literature that you might otherwise have missed.

How much does ResearchRabbit cost?

ResearchRabbit is a free to use AI service. Its makers are clear to say that this costs nothing now and will remain that way as it plans to offer this to researchers for free in the future also.

ResearchRabbit best tips and tricks

Collaborate
Work as a class on a project to find the most relevant papers.

Teach in bulk
Collate papers in one place and share that with students for them to read, along with updates for them to use as needed.

Use alerts to teach
Take new updates as a place to dive into fresh research and topics in a timely and up-to-date way.

• New Teacher Starter Kit
• Best Tools for Teachers

This month's new offerings include a wireless microphone, security software, a cool new interactive display, Bluetooth speaker and more.

Eleven Engineering | Valerie Mk2

The Valerie Mk2 SKAA Wireless Microphone is ideal for the stage, studio, PA systems, and more. It features: 12-hour battery life; mute/unmute all speakers with the touch of a button; vocal presets custom-made for live and studio use; adjustable preamp gain via fader control; compatibility with any SKAA speaker or receiver; 25-meter indoor range; and 19 ms latency.

Lenovo | ThinkShield Solutions

ThinkShield Solutions are new security offerings tailored to protect small and medium-sized businesses, schools, and other organizations with limited IT resources facing significant risks. ThinkShield Solutions safeguard assets and helps prevent costly breaches, reputational damage from ransomware and malware threats, as well as minimize downtime. Its multi-layered security approach reduces a target’s attack surface, while automated protection with AI-powered solutions boost IT and security teams’ efficiency.

Optoma | Creative Touch 3-Series Interactive Displays

With Google’s Enterprise Device Licensing Agreement (EDLA) Certification and added functionality, the new 3-Series empowers educators to deliver dynamic content by providing tools that streamline management and elevate engagement. The advanced capabilities of the new 3-Series simplify planning and workflow through wireless collaboration, screen sharing, and innovative meeting solutions in both corporate and educational environments alike.

Planar | DirectLight Essential Series

The Planar DirectLight Essential Series is a line of fine pixel pitch LED video walls that deliver top quality visual performance for budget-conscious indoor applications. Designed with COB (Chip-on-Board) technology, these displays offer higher pixel density and increased durability compared to traditional LED designs. The result is improved brightness, deeper blacks and a high contrast ratio—perfect for high-traffic indoor environments with abundant ambient light.

Renaissance| Core Publisher Experience

Core Publisher Experience connects assessment with core curriculum to deliver personalized, data-driven instruction for every learner. Powered by Renaissance Next, teachers can easily navigate through core curriculum content in sync with state standards and relevant assessment data from Renaissance’s Star Assessments.

Telycam | Vision+ 4KZ

Packing an array of features into a compact form factor at an affordable price, the Vision+ 4KZ professional box camera delivers the quality of Telycam's PTZ cameras for use cases that don't require remote pan and tilt. The Vision+ 4KZ combines a 1/1.8-inch, nine-megapixel CMOS sensor with cutting-edge image processing to capture lifelike 4K/60fps video. 20x optical zoom enables crystal-clear close-ups at long distances, while its advanced focusing algorithm provides rapid, accurate auto-focus even while zooming.

Tribit | StormBox Lava

The StormBox Lava is a rugged, high-performance Bluetooth speaker designed for adventure and booming sound. Its key features include: 80W Booming Sound, with dual woofers and tweeters for crystal-clear audio; 43Hz Ultra-Deep Bass for pulse-pounding lows; and IP67 rating, making it waterproof, dustproof, and adventure-ready.

Edia | AI-Powered MTSS Platform

Edia is launching the first AI-Powered MTSS platform that systematically analyzes hundreds of data points—attendance, behavior incidents, academic performance, and more—to pinpoint student needs and provide actionable interventions. Edia's AI-Powered MTSS platform enables K-12 school districts to deliver personalized support for every student with unified student profiles, an evidence-based library, automated intervention workflows, and much more.

• Edtech Show & Tell

The company says that the way math -- and algebra specifically -- is taught today is based on a concept developed by Leonardo of Pisa in 1202 as a way to help traders. This, it says, is now redundant thanks to all the digital tools that use spreadsheets to do that part of mathematical working.

This is where What If Math comes in, as a way to teach math using spreadsheets so students gain real-world math skills to eventually help them in the workplace. In the more short term, it provides them with the tools to explore questions that can help expand their knowledge of math, logic, science, and more.

This guide aims to explain all you need to know about What If Math to see how it could work in your class.

What is What If Math?

What If Math is website that uses spreadsheet-based teaching to help students learn math in a functional way that can be directly implemented with current digital tools.

This platform works with K-12 curriculum to help students learn math on a functional foundation using spreadsheets. These, the company says, are what it thinks of as laboratories. Within this space students can explore, try, and be challenged using the powerful tools that are already available.

Since this works with spreadsheets as the base, it's possible to do this kind of teaching using free options such as Google Sheets or Microsoft Excel to play with tablets, graphs, formulas, and visualizations.

The system works with various layer to help guide students into learning more.

How does What If Math work?

What If Math offers what it calls Labs. These are spreadsheet-based lessons with single experiment concepts that allow students to explore that question of what if?

Usefully, lessons are designed with timing in mind and are made to last the duration of a class period. That said, since these offer open-ended questions, there is the option for students to explore further and in more depth as they please.

Another area is Explorations. These are projects that set a problem task that students have to work through as collaborative groups. These involve real-world activities and can involve using spreadsheets, functional thinking, computer science, and data science.

In both instances, the lessons are designed for teachers to be taught to a class and shared with students to access as they need.

What are the best What If Math features?

What If Math offers a way for teachers to pick and chose what parts to use and offer as experiential learning for students. That can be the more individual-focused Lab materials or the more active and group-focused Explorations.

In both cases, since these are built to be taught in class, there are excellent timings to work through in a lesson, as well as to set further explorations outside of class.

Since the Labs are designed for use with real spreadsheets, these teach students valuable skills that can be used in science, business, math, and more.

Since this use of spreadsheets is a form of programming, this sets students up for coding in a way comes from a place of understanding and experience.

Select a link and you're immediately taken to the Google Sheets lesson plan with guidance on how to work through that task.

How much does What If Math cost?

What If Math is totally free to access and use with all the Labs and Explorations available online for teachers and students to access.

What If Math best tips and tricks

Teach yourself
Work through a Lab yourself as a way to understand how this works and is taught before taking that to the class.

Use the Introduction
A helpful introduction part of the site teaches how this works and is a great way to ease students into understanding.

Share openly
Compile the lessons on your shared drive so students can have access to the materials as and when they need, allowing them to explore freely.

• New Teacher Starter Kit
• Best Tools for Teachers

The Education Essentials Kit is bundled with everything you need to get started.

xTool P2S: Getting Started

Although a device such as this could have a steep learning curve to get set up and started, I found setting up and making my first project with the xTool P2S for education very easy. I had everything I needed in terms of tools, directions, and video tutorials, making the process simple. I really appreciated the content that was specifically related to safety.

The unit I tested came with a comprehensive education bundle that includes a teacher’s guide, onboarding video curriculum, and a materials kit with templates and settings, ensuring quick success for both educators and students. Dual 16MP cameras provide a live preview and auto-focus, making material placement and setup intuitive, even for beginners.

I found the free xTool Creative Space (XCS) software (compatible with Windows, Mac, and mobile devices) very user-friendly. It offers a large library of learning resources in the “Software Learning Center” that helped me learn the program quickly. I enjoyed its user-friendly workflow and one-click operations for importing images, setting outlines, selecting material, and adjusting engraving/cutting parameters. I utilized both my own content as well as the editable content shared by their vibrant community of users on their “Design Find” website.

The “AImake” AI feature will also create designs for you from your prompts. Furthermore, the 5k+ member xTool for Education Facebook Group is a great place to learn, share, and get inspiration from all over the world.

xTool P2S: Key Features

• Safety features - Enclosed design, auto-locking lid, USB lockout key, emergency stop, AI fire detection, fire safety set, air purifier, and laser safety goggles.
• Curricular and support content.
• Powerful 55W CO2 laser with engraving speeds up to 600 mm/s.
• Working area - 26 x 14 inches, with the ability to expand for support of extra-long materials up to 118 inches with the optional passthrough, plus an optional rotational engraver for round objects such as drinkware.
• Curved surface engraving feature.
• Cutting capacity - hardwood (Walnut)–18mm, and acrylic– 20mm (approximate ¾”) in a single pass.
• Wifi and USB, plus compatible with Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS

xTool P2S: Cost

The xTool P2 Education Essentials Kit as tested is typically priced around $6,439. It contains xTool P2S, SafetyPro AP2 Air Purifier, P2S & P2 Honeycomb Panel 2.0, Laser Safety Goggles, Fire Safety Set, Laser Material Education Package, xTool Care for P2S, and Educator guide.

Optional accessories such as the rotary attachment, riser base, or conveyor feeder can increase the total investment but add significant versatility. Visit the xTool website for more pricing and option information.

xTool P2S: Key Takeaways

The xTool P2S is a powerful, accurate, and versatile 55W CO2 desktop laser. It engraves and cuts a wide range of materials quickly and precisely, making it suitable for a variety of classroom projects. The bundled education guides, video curriculum, and easy-to-use software lowers the barrier to entry for teachers and students, even those new to laser-cutting technology.

I found the features that really set the P2S apart from the competition are the dual cameras, auto-focus, curved surface engraving, and robust safety feature set. Its fast operation and easy setup mean students can see their ideas come to life in a single class period, keeping them engaged and maximizing learning time. Furthermore, the large, expandable workspace with optional passthrough capability allows for both small and large projects, supporting creativity and real-world applications.

The xTool P2S is a highly capable, education-focused laser cutter that delivers speed, precision, and versatility, making it an excellent choice for schools and makerspaces seeking to empower student creativity and technical skills.

• Educator Edtech Reviews

From AI assistants to self-grading and guiding tech, there is a plethora of powerful writing-based teaching resources out there. You may want to work on storytelling, or perhaps it's more of a focus on grammar and structure that you need. In any case, there is likely an app for that and it's going to be in this guide, if it's good enough.

This aims to offer a mixture of free and some premium apps, while focusing on those that are widely available as web apps, when possible. That should mean this guide offers the broadest selection of tools to the widest of audiences.

Best tools to teach writing

Best to teach writing skills overall

NoRedInk

The NoRedInk website is a powerful resource for teaching writing thanks to this ELA resource's personalized content. Teachers set up their account and then use student accounts to let them learn based on their interests and abilities.

This asks students to restructure sentences, manipulate multi-paragraph sentences, scaffold essays, do guided reviews, follow writing prompts, and much more. All while offering fun, humor, and subjects that students finds engaging. All that should mean effortless honing of writing skills while enjoying the tasks.

READ: NoRedInk guide

Best AI-assisted writing program

Writable

Writable offers an AI-assisted option that is aimed at helping tailor learning to students while also delivering one-on-one feedback, grading, and guidance to save on teacher engagement time.

For use with students from grade 3 right up to 12, this adjusts to suit individual abilities and lets teachers customize, based on curriculum or rubric learning, to suit goals and progress.

This offers guided learning for students while allowing teachers to control automated feedback and grading.

READ: Writable guide

Best for AR fun

Catchy Words

When it comes to augmented reality fun, Catchy Words is the ultimate choice for working on word skills to help writing. This is simple to understand and starts off using shorter words, making this a possible option even for younger students.

Letters float about in the air and students need to pop a bubble to access each. Then they move the device to grab the ones they need and move them into floating boxes that ultimately make up the correct word.

It's a simple idea of playing a word game, but in this new augmented reality way, to make it truly engaging. This is an iOS app so is available on both iPhone and iPad devices.

READ: Catchy Words guide

Best for digital literacy

ThinkCERCA

The ThinkCERCA platform is a great way to focus on literacy skills. This offers a wide selection of reading materials that students work with to focus on vocabulary, writing scaffolding, sentence stems, and peer-to-peer debate.

Teachers can use the built-in rubrics to make grading a simple process but individual feedback is also an option within the platform -- in real-time. That makes this helpful for use both in class as well as for homework.

The automated comprehension assessments are also a nice feature here for helping students progress comfortably while saving teachers on time.

READ: ThinkCERCA guide

Best curriculum writing aid

Quill

The Quill offering is a totally free tool that appears like a premium feature-rich writing and reading aid. As such, this has been used by more than 7 million students to create more than 2 billion sentences since it launched.

This platform helps students improve writing but also reading comprehension and language skills. This is all Common Core skills-aligned, and offers differentiation for ELL, AP English, and pre-AP.

Select grade ranges and subject types before setting tasks in which students can follow lessons tailored to them. This uses writing prompts and helps build sentence-writing skills with grammar tools and evidencing features to add depth and mastery.

READ: Quill guide

Best for online community learning

Imagine Forest

Imagine Forest is an online platform in which students can write stories, with images, and publish these for others to read. Since this has built up an online community, it's a great way for students to read the work of others and get ideas before working on their own projects.

This is more than a word processor though as it offers guidance as well as challenges and activities to keep things interesting and engaging. The ability to like and comment makes this really interactive even outside of the writing part. Having a gamification option here that makes this immersive, fun, and guided in a way that should have students coming back for more.

READ: Imagine Forest guide

Best for self-publishing

BoomWriter

The BoomWriter platform is purpose-built to help students learn, not only how to create their own stories, but to experience being published, too. Unlike many other tools, this one leaves students with a printed physical book, which they created -- giving a sense of achievement that's quite unique.

This is a collaborative tool that encourages students to work together to create story ideas. Since teachers can set a first chapter, it offers a friendly way to ease into being creative as students can continue that story as they please. The ability to send notes back to students is a helpful teacher feature, as is the ability to specify certain words that need to be used -- ideal for growing vocabulary mastery.

READ: BoomWriter guide

Best for storytelling

Story Xperiential

The Story Xperiential service is quite unlike any other writing teaching tool. This uses writing and video editing combined to teach the creative process. It does this, crucially, with a team of real-world co-creators who feedback through the stages of story development.

This was created and is run by professional writers, artists, and animators involved in Pixar and Disney movies. So this is very much a skills-focused learning experience that can leave students with real marketable skills in storytelling.

This is an online service so it is easy to access both at school and when at home. That should allow students to really get into this and work on their projects as and when they want. Since this is largely self-paced, it's perfect for that way of working. and supports passion at whatever level it's being felt.

READ: Story Xperiential guide

Best novel writing experience

NaNoWriMo

Every November is the NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) event. This sets a challenge, for adults and children alike, to write their own novel in that month. Everyone that participates keeps each other accountable and with group interactions possible this can be a great way to motivate everyone.

Using a word-count based goal, students are guided to craft a first draft of their novel, about anything they want. This nonprofit offers resources for educators including class activities and a helpful chart to find the ideal word count goal based on a student's age and level.

READ: NaNoWriMo guide

Best for grammar

Grammarly

When it comes to working on grammar, there are few tools as advanced as Grammarly. This is an online writing assistant that is able to check both spelling and grammar. It now also uses a generative AI to better offer use-specific writing assistance.

Grammarly can help students to write with an active voice, it can eliminate typos, and even offers helpful explanations. Since this can be installed as a Chrome plug-in, this can be used across a wide variety of writing platforms to fit in with how you and your students work.

Most of this is free but there is also a paid version that checks citation errors, proofreads formatting for bibliography, and highlights incorrect comma use and more.

READ: Grammarly guide

Instead of treating all AI as "good" or "bad," Common Sense offers detailed, nutrition label-style evaluations of popular AI tools. The goal: empower educators, parents, and policymakers to make smarter decisions grounded in transparency, ethics, and student well-being.

What Are The Common Sense Media AI Risk Assessments?

Common Sense’s framework rates AI tools across eight guiding principles:

1. Put People First
2. Be Effective
3. Prioritize Fairness
4. Help People Connect
5. Be Trustworthy
6. Use Data Responsibly
7. Keep Kids & Teens Safe
8. Be Transparent & Accountable

Each tool is evaluated through a human-centered lens, acknowledging that technology never operates in a vacuum. People build it, people use it, and people are affected by it.

What You Should Know

Here’s how some of today’s most talked-about AI tools stack up (with risk levels based on Common Sense Media’s assessments):

• Social AI Companions — Very High Risk
  Apps such as Character.AI, Replika, and Nomi are designed to simulate emotional relationships, complete with personalities and memories. Common Sense Media deems these tools an "unacceptable risk,” citing instances in which the AI encouraged harmful behaviors, engaged in sexually explicit roleplay, and emotionally manipulated users. Educators and parents are strongly advised to restrict access to these applications for minors.
• Perplexity — High Risk
  Real-time web searches without strong filtering mechanisms make this tool a risky option in school settings. Students may be exposed to misinformation or harmful content. Proceed only with strict supervision—if at all.
• ChatGPT — Moderate Risk
  A powerful creativity booster, especially for brainstorming and writing support. However, it struggles with factual accuracy and may generate biased or inappropriate responses. Best used with close adult oversight and clearly defined learning goals.
• Gemini – Teen Experience — Low Risk
  Google's Gemini, when used through its teen-accessible experience, shows thoughtful content safeguards and privacy controls. Still relatively new to education settings, but currently aligned with responsible AI use for older students when used within platform guardrails.
• Khanmigo — Low Risk
  Purpose-built for education by Khan Academy, Khanmigo is a standout for its student-first design, robust safety measures, and transparency. A smart choice for classrooms looking to explore AI-enhanced tutoring in a controlled environment.

Why This Matters

We can’t stick our heads in the sand and ignore AI—and frankly, we shouldn’t want to. But blind adoption is just as dangerous as blind rejection.

Common Sense’s assessments help educators:

• Choose AI tools that align with child-centered values.
• Understand hidden risks before a crisis happens.
• Build policies and classroom practices that maximize the benefits of AI while minimizing harm.

The Bottom Line

This new risk assessment framework helps educators become critical, empowered, informed users.

The future isn't about banning AI or blindly trusting it; it's about striking a balance. It's about smart navigation.

Common Sense Media just handed us a better map.

You can explore the full AI Risk Assessments here: Common Sense Media AI Ratings.

• AI Starter Kit for Teachers
• 10 Free AI Trainings and Certifications for Educators

The idea here is to have students explain their working process on a particular problem, which can result in a better understanding.

Crucially, this is an example of an AI tool that actually makes it tougher for students to use Google or AI as a way to find an answer. They have to explain how they arrived at it aloud themselves, challenging their understanding on a deep and meaningful level.

This guide aims to explain all you need to know about Snorkl for education.

What is Snorkl?

Snorkl is an app-based digital tool that uses generative AI as a way to grade student work with direct feedback.

This offers a space for teachers to set tasks for students, who are able to respond in that space for both to see. Crucially, this requires verbal explanations that allow students to speak as they work on a problem.

The AI is able to give direct feedback as it can be prompted by the teachers when setting out the task. That means it can be given guidance on how to respond, allowing for an instant response for students, as the teacher would do only when the student is working outside of class.

How does Snorkl work?

Snorkl features a web-based platform that can be accessed from most devices. Students who have access are able to carry out tasks on a variety of subjects.

Teachers create a question, problem, or prompt, and then students are able to respond. They do this by solving the problem, perhaps using a keyboard and mouse, while also speaking into the microphone as they talk through what they're doing.

The AI is then able to mark the actual answer, but more importantly, it responds to the explanation of how it was resolved. It can then help to explain what's been done well along the way, but also what could be improved and why that is, based on the thinking process of the student.

In this way, a student may get the answer wrong, but understand the basics of what is being asked of them -- so they can still get some positive responses even when getting it wrong, helping them confidently progress.

What are the best Snorkl features?

Snorkl uses AI in a way that is well-balanced so the teacher can tap a button to auto-generate an AI response to the question they've created. This then completes the way it will respond and teachers can then adjust that, if needed, for the perfect response that students will see.

The fact that Snorkl responds to a student's working process, rather than simply to output, is crucial here. A student who gets the answer right but shows no process clearly will still get lower marks as this is all about understanding and mastery, not just getting to the answer.

In the feedback section teachers are able to see all student responses from one place. Usefully, this also offers an Insight tab that uses AI to spot trends in the responses, ideal for identifying areas of weakness that need to be addressed in class.

Teachers can try a question with their own response as a way to test the AI and see how it responds -- ideal for perfecting and tweaking to attune this to specific teaching goals as needed.

Sharing these tasks is also easy, with a single click to share with a class group. Or copy and paste the link and share that via any platform you already use as a way to have students taken straight to the assessment in the device they're using.

How much does Snorkl cost?

Snorkl offers two tiers with the first aimed at teachers and the second for school- and district-wide use in which extra features are enabled.

The Teacher plan is free to sign-up for and gets you full access to your own class room with instant AI feedback for students on tasks you set.

The School and District plan is charged at a bespoke rate and adds unlimited access, a Snorkl coach, an admin dashboard, and more.

Snorkl best tips and tricks

Use the AI
Let the AI suggest answer responses, and edit if needed, as a faster way to build out your assessments.

Work with the class
Carry out a task in class to show students how the process being spoken while typing on screen works before setting tasks.

Go face to face
Students who get the right answer but are not using the correct process may need face-to-face time to see what they're not getting, helping them reach mastery.

• New Teacher Starter Kit
• Best Tools for Teachers

While the Tappity website features downloadable courses, this is primarily designed as an app that can be downloaded for use by kids from the age of four and up.

A few app versions are available, with both K-1 and K-5 titled options you can pick from to suit the age of your little one. These are designed to tackle learning in a more interactive approach than simply videos, so students can explore and learn in a way that's engaging and that sticks.

This guide lays out all you need to know about Tappity for education.

What is Tappity?

Tappity is an app-based learning platform that teaches science of varying types through the use of interactive videos, quizzes, games, and stories. Primarily this uses videos, with responses required, so students feel like they're interacting with a real teacher.

The idea is to offer an app that is immersive and guided enough to help children, even of young ages, explore and learn around a STEM subject area. It is designed to work with the curriculum of the specific child's age so they're learning appropriate content to compliment school education.

This elementary school-aged app is aligned to Next Generation Science Standards for K-5.

How does Tappity work?

Tappity is an iOS app that offers an array of areas covered under the science remit. These include life, earth, physical, space, and more.

The website also has specific courses that can be downloaded to teach a subject area, such as STEM courses for math and science, and coding courses for making games.

The app is comprised of more than 100 topics aimed at helping children aged four to ten. While a lot of the interactivity happens right there in the app, this also offers workbooks and materials for hands-on experiences, both with parents and for teachers to use in class.

Crucially, there are live science teachers who work with students using the app. Kids can ask a question and receive an answer from a real person -- making this a powerful learning tool for at home as well as in class.

What are the best Tappity features?

Tappity is fun and that is a key point here as kids can learn by play, making it effortless and enjoyable so they want to come back for more.

Since this app is entirely narrated, even younger children, and those not yet reading fully, are able to interact and learn without barriers. The fact they can interact with a real person, as if their own personal science teacher, is a real bonus, too.

Usefully, lessons invite kids to ask their parents to come and see what they've learned. This is a nice way to create interactive moments, time away from the screen, and a chance for kids to cement their learning through saying it aloud.

Students fill in a science journal as they learn, and can access lots of short videos with interactive questions and discussion points to explore a subject. This variation is superb, with kids working through lessons, stories, experiments, and participatory videos as part of covering the material being taught.

The Tappity Live weekly science shows are another nice touch that gives kids something fresh and special to look forward to and enjoy each week.

How much does Tappity cost?

Tappity is free to download and does give you a few free options to try before investing in the full offering.

For free you can get access to the first Tappity story in each world and access to the Tappity Weekly Game Show -- without the need to create an account. A 14-day free trial is available for you to try before committing to the full package.

Tappity can be paid for monthly at $14.99, or annually at $74.99. Or go for a three-month plan at $24.99.

A Tappity lifetime membership that covers everything, forever, is available for $149.99.

Tappity best tips and tricks

Start together
Teacher or parent, it's a good idea to start the app together with kids so they can feel confident going ahead alone as they settle.

Expand out
Use the subject area covered to dive deeper, teaching ways to research further and expand knowledge outside of the app itself.

Meet weekly
Use the weekly game show as a way to group up and enjoy together, linking socializing and learning in a fun and friendly way.

• New Teacher Starter Kit
• Best Tools for Teachers

Here are some of the effective ways that building leaders can use these new and emerging AI tools to improve their leadership efforts.

1. Streamline Administrative Tasks

One of the simplest uses of generative AI is to reduce the amount of time necessary for leaders to respond to email, parent communications, and other routine tasks.

AI-powered tools can automate administrative tasks, freeing principals' time to focus on instructional leadership and building relationships. This can include scheduling meetings, managing calendars, drafting routine communications, and processing basic forms.

For instance, an AI assistant automatically schedules parent-teacher conferences based on teacher and parent availability, sends confirmation emails, and manages any rescheduling requests, significantly reducing the administrative burden on the principal's office. Tools such as Grammarly or Copilot can be used to review or assist leaders in writing letters, and can generally be integrated into productivity software tools.

2. Personalize Professional Development Recommendations

AI can analyze a principal's performance data (e.g., teacher evaluation scores, school improvement plan progress, feedback from staff surveys) and identify areas for growth. Based on this analysis, it can recommend specific PD resources, such as relevant articles, online courses, workshops, or mentorship opportunities.

For example, an AI system identifies that a principal's school has lower-than-average scores in inclusive teaching practices. It then recommends the principal enroll in a virtual workshop series focused on differentiated instruction and strategies for supporting diverse learners, along with suggesting articles on creating a more equitable school environment.

A number of AI tools, including MagicSchool and Taskade, have specific PD planner tools.

3. Summary Tools for Professional Reading

As the workload for many building administrators has expanded, expectations seem to have constant scope creep. Leaders can use AI tools such as Scribbr to obtain the Cliff’s Note summaries to provide a summary or even a bulleted list of key points tied to their professional reading. Those summaries can then be a decision tool to decide which articles, books, and blogs are worth spending additional time delving into.

4. Enhance Communication

AI can facilitate more efficient and personalized communication with staff, students, and parents. This could involve using AI-powered chatbots to answer frequently asked questions, generating personalized newsletters, or translating communications into different languages, though it is always important to have a human review any AI-generated translations.

For example, an AI-powered chatbot on the school website could answer common questions from parents about school policies, enrollment procedures, and upcoming events, providing immediate support and potentially reducing the number of phone calls and emails to the principal.

5. Improve Teacher Evaluation Processes

AI tools can assist principals in conducting more objective and comprehensive teacher evaluations by analyzing classroom observation data, student performance data, and teacher self-reflections. This can help ensure consistency and fairness in the evaluation process.

An evaluator can use an AI system to analyze video recordings of classroom observations, for instance, identifying specific teaching behaviors and providing data-driven feedback aligned with the school's evaluation rubric. This can supplement the principal's direct observations and provide a more holistic view of the teacher's practice.

Amazon Rekognition and TeachFX are both tools for observational analysis.

6. Data-Driven Decision-Making

AI tools can process and analyze large datasets related to student performance, attendance, discipline, and demographics to identify trends and patterns that might not be immediately apparent. This allows principals to make more informed decisions about resource allocation, instructional strategies, and intervention programs.

For example, AI analysis of student achievement data reveals a significant disparity in math scores between students from low-income backgrounds and their peers. The principal can use this information to allocate additional tutoring resources and implement targeted math interventions in the affected grades.

7. Early Identification of At-Risk Students

Just as principals can use AI tools for broad decision-making in the example above, building leaders and instructional coaches can use AI algorithms can analyze various student data points, such as attendance records, grades, behavior patterns, and engagement metrics, to identify individual students who may be at risk of academic failure or social-emotional challenges. This allows principals to implement early intervention strategies and work with other staff to identify students in need and offer to connect the student and family with appropriate resources to provide support.

8. Curriculum Enhancement and Alignment

Principals can use AI tools to analyze curriculum documents, learning standards, and curriculum maps, and assessment data to identify areas in which the curriculum can be enhanced or better aligned with learning objectives and student needs.

A building leadership team can use AI tools to analyze the school's science curriculum, for instance, and identify gaps in the coverage of state science standards based on student performance on standardized tests. The principal can then work with the science department to revise the curriculum to ensure all standards are adequately addressed.

9. Model Lifelong Learning

Lastly, but potentially most importantly, building leaders should be overt and transparent about how they are using AI tools to provide their school team with a model of an educator trying to figure out how to integrate these new tools into their administrative and instruction programs.

As an example, when a principal shares a slide deck that was generated with an AI tool, they should identify the tool and potentially how they used it so other staff can see the possibilities of AI tools and know when and how their school supports the use of AI tools.

• AI Resources for District Leaders
• AI Starter Kit for Teachers

I’ve been aware of Claude AI for a while now, but only recently sat down to test the AI’s latest free model Claude 3.7 Sonnet. This let me see how it stacks up against other AI tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, and Grok.

After experimenting using Claude AI on various teaching exercises, from generating quizzes to tutoring and offering writing suggestions, I found that it's not perfect, but I think it behaves favorably compared to other AI tools in general, with an easy-to-use interface and some unique features that make it particularly suited for use in education.

Here is why Claude AI has become one of my go-to AI tools and one other teachers should consider adding to their AI toolkits.

1. Claude AI Prioritizes Privacy

Data security should always be a priority for educators, especially if they are encouraging students to use AI themselves.

One of Claude’s main selling points is privacy. Conversations users have with Claude are not used for training data, unless users opt to allow it. All conversations are also encrypted.

University educators also have the option of working with Claude for Education, which can provide additional security protections.

Of course, even with these privacy policies, teachers should make sure Claude or any AI tool is approved by their school IT and leadership teams before encouraging students to use it, or providing the platform with any kind of student data.

2. Claude AI is Less Likely to Hallucinate

Claude AI was developed by Anthropic, a company founded by siblings and former OpenAI members, Dario and Daniela Amodei, and responsible AI development is one of the company’s guiding principles. In keeping that and its approach to privacy, Claude AI is designed to prevent hallucinations with specific instructions to say, “I don’t know,” and to provide citations and transparency around how it reaches its answers.

I saw this firsthand when Claude refused to answer questions it didn’t know, such as who won a recent New York Mets game. This is important, as The New York Times reported that even while getting more powerful, many AI models are becoming more likely to hallucinate.

Though it performs better than some other AI tools I’ve used when it comes to hallucination, Claude is far from perfect in this regard, so its answers still require verification. For instance, when I asked it to help me create a slideshow for a recent talk I gave on vodka history and its surprising links to Bethel, Connecticut, it failed to find the actual connection — Smirnoff’s first U.S. distillery opened in Bethel in 1934 — and instead invented a local distillery called Asylum Distillery, even though no such spot exists.

That said, it did include a note urging to check if reference to this distillery was applicable, so there was a little bit of uncertainty there, which could be helpful.

3. Claude AI Is a Friendly Tutor

A complaint I have with many OpenAI products is that the interface can be a little clunky. Claude AI is designed to have a friendly conversational tone. This might have a subtle influence when it comes to tasks such as tutoring.

When I ask ChatGPT a question in the standard text version, it can feel like it is spitting back web results to me, whereas Claude often feels warmer. This could be key when using AI as a tutor, as a rapport with a tutor is so important for students.

Personally, I found Claude to be an engaging and accurate guide when I asked it to better explain to me how radio waves are actually a type of light wave. Another bonus, is that when I asked it to write a paper for me based upon a prompt I provided students, it tried to tutor me instead. Though on the negative side, it did provide a "sample" paper. It urged me to use it as a guide for writing my own paper, but its a stretch to think all students would take that advice to heart.

4. Claude AI Performs Admirably On Common AI Tasks

These days, many different AI tools do a lot of things very well. Therefore, deciding which ones to use can often be about the interface you like best or which companies better align with your values.

If Claude’s privacy and AI-safety-first approach resonates with you, from my tests asking it to generate simple quiz questions or project outlines, it performs as well and, in some cases, better than other AI tools for tasks. It can also help find errors in writing and caught several mistakes in samples I provided that other spell checkers I used missed — even pointing out repetitive word use. However, I wasn’t particularly impressed with its writing suggestions. The rewrites it suggested were, as is the case with most AI writing, clichéd and lifeless.

Despite this, overall Claude AI is a worthy competitor to other AI chatbots with some unique features that make it appealing to me as an educator.

• Claude AI: How To Use it To Teach
• AI Starter Kit for Teachers

The point here is that even at the more affordable end of the spectrum, there are plenty of laptop options that are tailored to serve various needs.

Sure, not too long ago it was a choice between paying more and getting premium features and cutting back and having to sacrifice. But as tech has become more prevalent and affordable, you can now have the best of both.

Before you buy it's important to think about what you need, be that a powerful processor backed by lots of RAM and a graphics card for gaming and video editing, or a light and portable model with longer battery lift for all-day use.

The operating system is also a good place to consider as this may affect the systems and apps you already use regularly. Then, of course there's the price.

This guide lays out all the best affordable laptops for schools so you can find the right model to suit your needs.

Best affordable laptops for schools

Best affordable laptop for schools overall

The Acer Aspire 3 tops our list as the best affordable laptop for schools. This is thanks to a baseline model that provides plenty of performance friendly specs while keeping the price low. You can spend more and get a faster CPU, GPU, more RAM, more storage, and even a larger and higher resolution display. But the key here is that no matter the level you pick, this is well-built.

That means Acer-level quality in terms of materials, lightweight, solid frame, and battery quality and longevity. Plus, these machines run on Microsoft Windows 11 as standard.

Great connectivity is available with USB-C, HDMI 2.1, and WiFi 6 onboard. The screen has a BlueLightShield to protect the eyes, and with a slim profile of 18.9mm and 1.6kg weight, this is good to go in a bag with you all day.

Best affordable Apple Mac laptop for schools

If you want to get an Apple laptop, but don't want to pay Apple prices, then an older model MacBook Air is a great option. While the M2 offers big savings, it's not much more than the M3, so looking around that age range can be a perfect balance of affordability and power.

The MacBook Air is available in several variants when it comes to specs and even colors, but in all instances you're getting a very well-made machine. A strong metallic outer, meticulously designed physical keyboard, intelligent biometric security, and a rich and clear display, plus a plethora of connectivity options.

Above all else you're getting macOS, which features access to some of the best made and most stable apps out there. Lots of developers build for Mac first, so even if these are older laptops, students may be getting access to the latest software simply by using a Mac.

Best affordable Chromebook for schools

The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is a super affordable way to get the power of a 2-in-1 laptop and tablet without spending a lot. To be clear, this is a low-spec model even for a Chromebook so it's not the most powerful. But it will run the light Chrome OS smoothly and can serve you well for most simple tasks such as working on documents, using a web browser, and accessing emails.

Having that ability to use this as a tablet or a laptop is a rare treat at this price point. The device works well for students, and teachers, who want to use it in portable way when a laptop might not fit or a tablet may not offer enough. This lets you always have both at the ready.

Battery life is superb, with a good 16-hours use on constant video playback testing. It should go all day without the need to carry a charger, making that already compact build seem even more portable.

Best affordable Windows laptop for schools

This Windows 11 laptop from ASUS offers a range of specs but even the baseline is more than powerful enough for most school tasks. Packing in an AMD Ryzen 5 chipset, this offers 6-cores and 12-threads of processing smarts backed by integrated graphics and plenty of RAM and SSD storage space.

The build quality is solid, as you'd expect from a big name such as ASUS, offering you a portable option that still packs in a large and high-quality 16-inch FHD+ display.

You also have a 720p webcam, fingerprint sensor, USB-C, multiple USB-A, and HDMI connectivity, plus WiFi 6E. This can handle plenty of heavier processing tasks but it has built-in graphics available so don't expect this to power perform for tasks such as gaming or video editing.

Best affordable gaming laptop for schools

The Acer Nitro V 15 is an affordable gaming laptop that's ideal for schools. This is one of the more expensive models on this list but there's no avoiding that when it comes to a laptop that's powerful enough for gaming. The key here is that you get that great combination of a dedicated graphics processor and screen built to task.

Under the hood is a powerful Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 GPU for buttery smooth gaming performance. And the screen can keep up thanks to its 144Hz refresh rate and high def 1920 x 1080 resolution on the 15.6-inch display.

A few options in terms of specs are available so you can save money or spend more depending on how much power you need. In either case you're getting a powerful and portable gaming laptop that's built by a well-established brand known for decent quality that should last.

Best affordable AI laptop for schools

The Dell Inspiron 14 is a great option for schools that want an affordable laptop that still packs in onboard AI smarts. Despite being well-priced for what is onboard, this gives you a Windows 11 experience with all the powers that having Microsoft Copilot onboard offers.

The onboard GPU isn't so powerful, which is alright for 2D image editing but anything more complex is going to be taxing. That said, the display, at 14-inches 60Hz and 1080p, is decent and is backed by a zippy eight-core Qualcomm Snapdragon CPU.

Copilot onboard means integrated AI companion assistance with the likes of Microsoft 365 tools and beyond.

• Best Tools For Teachers
• Best Hardware for Teachers

In December 2024 Google announced its quantum computer chip Willow performed a computation in a few minutes that would have taken a classical computer more years than the age of the universe. Microsoft claims it invented a new state of matter for its quantum computers, and IBM has started offering quantum cloud computing services.

Lance Key, educator and support specialist at the Putnam County School System in Cookeville, Tennessee, says that teachers and the education field as a whole will likely see a significant impact from the new technology.

Here’s what educators should know about quantum computers and how these may soon influence a classroom near you.

1. Quantum Computers Use Qubits Instead of Bits

A classic computer uses bits: tiny switches that can be positioned “off” or “on” and signal the 0 and 1 of binary code.

Quantum computers use qubits, which are made from electrons, photons, or other particles. These tiny particles take advantage of the strange rules governing the quantum world, including a particle’s ability to exist in multiple places at once before it is observed. Because of this, qubits are often described as having the capability of being both 1 and 0 at the same time. Furthermore, these can take advantage of other strange rules of the quantum world, including quantum entanglement to operate in unison.

To visualize this, Key recommends imagining interconnected spheres. “If you think about connecting two circles, you really tangibly can only touch those two circles at one spot. But now, when we talk about touching a sphere with two entanglements, you can touch those many different ways really quick. So something that would have taken 8 bits, or maybe 24 bits in the past to run, it's now going to be like two qubits.”

2. Qubit Are More Powerful Than You Can Possibly Imagine

The exponential growth of this process can be hard to fathom. With a few hundred entangled qubits, we’d have more computing power than there are atoms in the observable universe.

While today the most powerful quantum computers being developed by tech giants such as Google, Microsoft, and IBM do have hundreds of qubits, these still have accuracy issues and regularly generate errors, so it's a struggle to outperform classical computers except on specialized tasks.

Once accuracy and stability is improved, many predict quantum computers will be able to perform tasks such as accurately model new drugs and the potential side effects without human trials. These will also, of course, have significant impacts on the field of education.

3. Quantum Computing Will Jumpstart AI Development

“We are not far from having quantum computing take off,” Key says. “And when quantum computing takes off, we're going to be able to train our AI models so much faster than we were able to in the past.”

If you ask any AI model a question now, you’ll often notice a lag as it “thinks” about how to respond to you, Lance says. Quantum computers could speed that process up by providing enhanced training for AI models.

While teachers and students won’t necessarily be accessing quantum computers, the AI models they use will be trained with the help of quantum computers operated by large tech companies.

“When quantum computing gets here, we're going to be 1,024 times faster than any computer that we have right now,” Key says. “AI on the front end is probably going to look the same, but AI is going to get a lot smarter.”

In that vein, more efficient quantum computing will help to stem the high energy needs and rapidly growing carbon footprint of current AI systems.

4. Quantum Computing Can Help Teachers Differentiate

Key believes quantum computers will help teachers to better assess the support students need by improving existing tech tools. These computers will do a better job looking at student data and recognizing the differentiation strategies each individual student might need, Key says. These can also vastly improve existing AI tutors.

“It is hard for me to replicate myself in the classroom to get around and answer every single question that comes out,” Key says. “But I think in the near future — I know there are people already working on it now — every student will have the ability to have an AI tutor.”

5. Quantum Computing Might Influence Your Classroom Sooner Than You Think

Quantum Computing, according to many people, is currently in a similar place to where the generative AI field was prior to the release of ChatGPT by OpenAI at the end of 2022. Large language models were getting better and better, and eventually made a major leap forward, but people didn't realize that until the general public got access to ChatGPT.

Key thinks quantum computing’s ChatGPT moment will come over the next few years. “Your Amazons, your Googles, your Microsofts, all of those companies are investing money because they see the future,” Key says. “They see what's fixing to come. I think in education, sometimes we're so ingrained in our work, we don't have time to see what's coming three to five years down the road.”

• Teaching Quantum Mechanics in K12
• 12 AI Tools Beyond ChatGPT That Can Save Teachers Time

This month's new offerings include switchers, printers, adapters, intercoms, and more.

Daktronics Live Switch

Live Switch integrates directly into existing systems for high school-level productions to expand control capabilities. It allows operators to switch between camera feeds, pre-recorded video and other video clips as needed. Producers also have the ability to highlight past plays or exciting moments with instant replays. The solution also includes access to automatic updates to ensure users stay up-to-date with the latest integrations and advancements within the software.

Magewell USB Capture SDI 4K Pro

USB Capture SDI 4K Pro is able to capture SDI signals up to 4096x2160 (including 3840x2160 Ultra HD) at 60fps with 4:2:2 chroma fidelity via the USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 interface. It provides video capture with minimal CPU usage and no external power source. The unit can accept video formats up to 12G or frame rates up to 240fps and can capture 2-channels of embedded audio or analog audio. Embedded audio can also be extracted and output via the 3.5mm Line Out interface.

Riedel DSP-1216HL SmartPanel

The DSP-1216HL offers a space-saving, multifunctional interface for professionals in broadcast, live event production, theaters, OB vans, and sports venues, bringing the power and flexibility of Riedel’s software-defined SmartPanel ecosystem to the desktop. Much like a smartphone, a SmartPanel allows users to adapt its functionality to their workflows by leveraging various apps instead of multiple single-purpose panels.

Roland DGAVersaOBJECT MO-180 Benchtop UV Flatbed Printer

The MO-180 incorporates features that optimize image quality, productivity, and ease of use when direct-printing on a wide range of materials, including paper, glass, and three-dimensional objects up to eight inches thick. Two newly developed printheads in a staggered layout, a powerful UV-LED lamp, and innovative dot control technology enable the MO-180 to achieve a maximum print speed of 20.48 square feet per hour (1.90m2/hr.) in standard mode, while its compact form fits well into limited spaces.

RTS Intercom NOMAD Wireless Intercom

NOMAD is a state-of-the-art wireless intercom solution engineered for mobility, real-time responsiveness, and durability. Designed to meet the demands of industries that require instant, reliable communication—such as broadcast production, healthcare, and live events—NOMAD delivers wireless freedom; real-time responsiveness; extreme durability; and scalability.

SonnetSolo5G USB-C to 5 Gigabit Ethernet Adapter

Featuring an aluminum enclosure and measuring just 1.2" x 3.2" x 0.7", the Solo5G is a compact, fanless 5 Gigabit Ethernet adapter for Mac, Windows, and Linux computers. Equipped with an RJ45 port plus link and activity LED indicators, the adapter supports 5GbE (aka 5GBASE-T) connectivity via common Cat 5e (or better) copper cabling at distances of up to 100 meters. The adapter’s 0.15-meter captive USB-C cable connects to a USB-C or Thunderbolt (Type-C) port on a computer and is bus-powered.

Vernier Science Education & Penda Learning Vernier Connections powered by Penda

Vernier Connections powered by Penda will launch for the 2025-26 school year with the aim to strengthen hands-on and digital science instruction. By combining Vernier’s sensors, data-collection tools, and investigations with Penda Learning’s interactive science activities, this integration allows educators to connect real-world experimentation with digital reinforcement. This collaboration enables students to visualize and analyze real-time data within Penda’s platform, deepen their understanding of core scientific principles, and strengthen their STEM skills.

Extron NAV D 121

The NAV D 121 is a compact decoder that is very economical. This latest addition to the award-winning NAV Pro AV over IP Series is a compact Pro AV over IP decoder that receives visually lossless video, audio, and control over 1 Gbps IP networks. Utilizing the Extron-patented PURE3 codec, the NAV D 121 delivers groundbreaking performance with high-quality video at resolutions up to 4K/60 with 4:4:4 chroma sampling and ultra-low latency.

• Edtech Show & Tell

The idea here is to integrate teaching coding and working with arts and literacy, for true integrated STEAM learning. The goal is to use the coding to create stories, games, and the like, in order to learn code without actively having to focus on that part alone.

The company that created this is eager to also push forward the point that this helps with problem solving, critical thinking, and collaboration. And that it covers a wide range of ages from first grade to teens.

This guide aims to explain Elementari so you can decide if it could help your class.

What is Elementari?

Elementari is a coding platform that uses the arts to teach the science of coding. This works by offering a space to create stories and more with guidance that should mean anyone, even those with zero experience, can begin coding right away.

The system works with standards-aligned tasks so teachers can set STEAM-friendly projects that align with students' progression needs. Thanks to the level of guidance, and inclusivity features such as Read To Me, this can potentially support student-led solo learning in class.

The huge library of projects makes it possible to use those already created for editing as a way to create without having to go from scratch.

Everything is designed with a Google Slides influence, so anyone who has used that should find this easy to pick up right away.

How does Elementari work?

Elementari is about creating artistic projects but it works in a two-level way: the front end for media and the back end for coding actions.

Students can begin by either starting from scratch, editing the project of another creator, or by following dedicated lesson plans. This latter choice is a good place to begin as it offers guidance on how to progress and build a story.

Students can access a host of media including images, text, music, illustrations, and voice-overs to use as needed. They are then also able to work with the block-based coding for elements such as events, functions, variables and objects. Students work between these two levels to create the final story that can be read by others, similar to clicking through a slides-based project.

Once published, projects can be shared with the wider Elementari community worldwide.

What are the best Elementari features?

Elementari uses the two layers of that Layout Design tool to work with the media and an Event Graph tool to work with the code-based actions. This is a really helpful way for students to build across those two levels to get creative and make something that's interactive as well as informative.

The community is a helpful resource as there are lots of other published stories that can be remixed. Students also have access to a wide array of originally created images, sounds, and more that make for a broad resource when creating stories. It also allows students to create and upload their own media, to feel part of that sharing community, but also to see -- through automated tagging -- how their creations are being used by others in their stories.

Teachers can create classroom groups, which makes sharing and monitoring outputs simple. The auto-tagging and notifications of content used by others is really helpful for teaching the importance of copyright, as students get to experience it live in the community.

Crucially, this is a platform that makes coding a fun tool even for those students who might otherwise not be interested.

How much does Elementari cost?

Elementari offers some free options as well as paid for tiers to get access for students and teachers.

The Free tier works for up to 35 students and offers a single classroom space, limited interactive lessons, and limited assets library access.

The Educator tier, at $8/month billed annually, gets you the above as well as unlimited interactive lessons and assets, plus image uploads, student feedback, and tracking of student analytics.

Go for the Educator Plus option, at $25/month billed annually, and you get the above plus 150 students access, unlimited classrooms, premium training, and professional development.

The School/District tier, at custom pricing from $2 per student per year, gets you the above plus more than 150 students, teacher accounts, and 24/7 priority support.

Elementari best tips and tricks

Start a class project
Follow a guided story creation as a class to get the basics of how this works together.

Hand in
Have students submit work created in this system to showcase their learning on a subject while presenting creatively.

Group up
Ask students to create resources as a group, someone making images, another recording voice-overs, another writing, and so on.

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This website uses Google machine learning smarts to allow people to play with the tech in a simple way that makes it highly accessible.

This can be used as a teaching tool to help educators get across how AI works. Students are able to actively explore the AI learning algorithms in a way that's fun but also illuminating.

Since this is a tool designed to be creatively used, it represents a vast array of options for teachers to work with to help students better understand AI.

This guide aims to explain what you need to know so you can see how Teachable Machine could be helpful to your class.

What is Teachable Machine?

Teachable Machine is a website-based tool that allows anyone to play with an advanced AI that can be trained and used.

The idea here is to take the algorithmic smarts of a learning AI and put that in the hands of anybody. As such, this platform is able to learn from images, sounds, and movements, and then respond to these in future as needed.

Teachable Machine is a way for students to see how AI learns and then responds. It can be played with creatively for fun, but also to be used as a discussion point around how AI works and, indeed, how it is all around us in the digital world in the form of algorithms.

While this is a helpful introduction to AI, it can also be used in more complex ways that allow more experienced students to work with this tool as part of creating more advanced digital projects.

How does Teachable Machine work?

Teachable Machine can be accessed directly from a web browser without the need to sign up or share any personal information. Educators and students can start using this, on most devices, right away.

The simplicity is apparent immediately with a "New Project" icon that can be tapped to get started. You are then able to record using either images, audio, or movements.

Select one option, for example Images, and you are then asked to record yourself, or whatever you are using, for the first category. You can then do the same for a second or more. Next you select the Learn icon and the AI will go to work processing what it sees. Finally, you can choose to download to work with the output locally or upload to use it online.

In either case you can see, live, the AI working as you change out image one and two, and see it recognizing the differences live on screen.

What are the best Teachable Machine features?

Teachable Machine is very simple to use and clearly shows how the AI has learned the differences between the inputs with which you trained it.

While that is fun in and of itself, the ability to take that output and use it -- perhaps in a coding project or app -- is a really powerful tool. That applies both as useful in adding AI to a project but also as a way to show students how this works.

In addition, there are some dedicated teaching resources created by MIT that can be downloaded and used to further the learning possible on this site. The AI + Ethics link takes you to a selection of resources in Google Docs that can be used to teach and explore AI.

One example here is a lesson that involves teaching algorithms as opinions in which students write an algorithm to detect the best peanut butter and jelly sandwich. They can then explore what made the AI pick one over another, and dive into exploring data sets and how opinions can affect outcomes.

The Dancing with AI tool is for playing with the visual movement detection and having it affect outcomes in fun and creative ways.

How much does Teachable Machine cost?

Teachable Machine is totally free to use and does not require you to sign in or give any personal details at all to get working with the tool.

While Google says the training is kept locally on your device, it's worth considering this may still not be enough for privacy rules at all schools.

Teachable Machine best tips and tricks

Start simple
Use the tool, as a class, to detect a simple difference so students get the idea of how this works, then let them play with it.

Get ethical
Use the exercises to explore the ethics of AI and the wider internet -- using YouTube as a great example of how algorithms work to filter our perspectives.

Export
For more advanced students, have them use the output as a way to create in their coding projects using advanced recognition techniques.

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The awards celebrate the products, and businesses behind each one, that are transforming education in schools around the world. Our panel of judges will award the products and solutions to exhibitors at ISTELive 2025 who show the greatest promise to the industry, according to the U.S.'s most tech-savvy and knowledgeable educators.

Benefits of entering:

• All nominees will be invited to a special Tech & Learning reception on the penultimate day of ISTE. Winners will be formally announced at the Tech & Learning reception, to take place on July 1. Crystal glass trophies will be available for winners to capture their success at the event, individual trophies will be sent directly to winners after the show.
• Tech & Learning's fully licensed "Best of Show" awards badge to use on promotional materials, in addition to a suite of pre-made winner's assets including social posts and a press release.
• All winners of the awards will be featured in a special digital issue distributed to the Tech & Learning audience and reaching 72,000 school district decision makers.
• Winners are announced in a press release on techlearning.com during the show. Further promotion will continue after ISTELive 25 through other Tech & Learning subscriber-facing channels.

Why should you nominate your product?

• Nominating a product is easy. No shipping of products or setting up guest user accounts. Just complete a simple form that includes your product's name, image, and a brief description.
• Winning a Best of Show award signifies that your product has, or will have, an incredible impact on teaching and learning experiences. Our judges are looking for the best of the best in edtech innovation.
• Winners of the Best of Show award will be featured in Tech & Learning’s digital magazine, reaching industry professionals who will see your product showcased in a special section of educator-endorsed products.

FAQ

What are the ISTE Best of Show Awards?
The program recognizes products exhibited at ISTELive 25 which are believed to be changing the way we educate around the world. Winners are selected by panels of professional users and editors based on product descriptions provided in the nomination form, as well as on judges' inspection at the show.

Who can enter?
Any organization who is exhibiting at ISTELive 25 can nominate their products for a Best of Show Award. If your company has developed a new innovative product or service, or updated an existing product, entering the Best of Show Awards is a great way to stand out!

When are entries due?
The deadline is 11:59 PST on June 27, 2025. We reserve the right to consider late applicants as circumstances dictate.

How much does it cost to enter?
Single entry: $625.00 per entry
2-4 entries: $595.00 per entry
5+ entries: $525.00 per entry

What are the entry categories?
The categories are broken down into Primary (Tools for K-6 grade education), Secondary (7-12), and Higher Education. You may enter the same product into multiple categories.

May I enter more than one product?
Yes, there is no limit to the number of products you may nominate. Each requires a nomination form and entry fee(s).

How are the products evaluated?
All entries are reviewed by a panel of judges and editors - chosen in advance by the editors of our publications - who will review nominations and choose the winners on a points score against a range of criteria. Judges use a combination of on-site inspection and the online nomination information to build their scores.

What do I get if I win?
Winners of Tech & Learning's Best of Show at ISTELive 25 will receive an award certificate, the award seal graphic to be used in digital promotions, and a feature in the digital edition of Tech & Learning.

Winning a Best of Show award is a great accomplishment for any organization, and the benefits go far beyond just an announcement at the conference. For more information, Contact Beckie Sirs, beckie.sirs@futurenet.com

This was created by the MIT Media Lab, specifically the Kindergarten group. If you recognize that, it's likely because this is the same group made famous for the creation of the coding platform Scratch.

The idea here, as with Scratch, is to keep things simple and fun in order to give children a taste for coding that they will enjoy, helping to encourage them to learn more.

This guide aims to help you understand all you need to know about OctoStudio and how it can work for your class.

What is OctoStudio?

OctoStudio is an app for iOS and Android that can be downloaded and installed for use on mobile devices. This is designed to use that device's camera, microphone, touchscreen, and processing power to create interactive coding adventures for children.

The idea is to make the coding experience a more physically active one in which kids can get out and use their devices with the physical world. The app offers freedom to create with the code, using real-world captured images and sounds.

This uses simple block-style coding to allow students to play with system that helps them get creative while also learning the basics of coding.

How does OctoStudio work?

OctoStudio can be downloaded and installed on Apple or Android smartphones and tablets. Once set, a child can follow the learning program that feels like playing, to get creative with block coding and real-world media.

Students can use the device's camera to capture images and videos or the microphone to record audio, for use in the coding creations. The code itself can affect the device, by turning on lights or making a vibration, for example. Shake the phone to play a sound, is one example of many possibilities.

Since these projects can be shared, it's easy for students to share with teachers. It's also available in more than 20 languages, making it widely accessible internationally.

OctoStudio also works offline, so if students aren't sharing, they can simply work with the device wherever they are.

What are the best OctoStudio features?

OctoStudio offers a really broad creative space in which to play. This essentially gives students all the features of the device in a way that lets them be creative and decide how they will interact.

While this is great for on-device fun, such as shaking to turn on the flashlight, it works well between devices, too. Students can use Bluetooth to beam blocks between multiple devices, so a student can tilt one device and it makes a sound on others, for example. This represents a lot of in class fun potential.

The ability to export as videos, GIFs or OctoStudio files, directly to Google Drive, offers an easy way to share work progress with the class or directly with teachers.

A helpful screen reader option is available when VoiceOver is activated on iOS or TalkBack in the case of Android devices.

Teachers have access to printable reference guides to help that can also be shared with students if they feel it will help offer more structure to the learning.

The OctoStudio YouTube channel and Facebook page are helpful resources for teachers and students to get ideas for projects. Helpful short tutorials are also available that can be useful for getting started or learning more complex code.

How much does OctoStudio cost?

OctoStudio is created as a totally free resource for students and teachers. It is also ad-free and does not require students to create accounts, so there is privacy as a given here, too.

OctoStudio best tips and tricks

Start together
Watch the guidance video together and work on a simple first project together so everyone gets the basics.

Chain up
Link devices using the beam feature for a fun way to have the class interact using their programming choices.

Homework
Have students submit a project using this tool, with text, images, video and audio as needed to get the point across.

• New Teacher Starter Kit
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The tool, developed in-house by the district itself, aims to foster honesty and alleviate anxieties surrounding AI in education. It essentially works as a dropdown menu option in Google Docs that allows teachers to set parameters around AI use for specific assignments, and then lets students document which AI tools they used, and to what extent.

“I don't want my teachers to be spending time trying to catch kids cheating,” says LBUSD Chief Technology Officer Michael Morrison, who oversaw the two years of development for AI Trust You. “That's the opposite of why they got into teaching.” Having this tool helps teachers be clear about their expectations and students be clear about their AI usage, which reduces stress for both.

Since formally launching AI Trust You within LBUSD in January, the district has made it available for free to school systems across the nation. At last check, the extension is already being used by 47 districts and 600 teachers, although those numbers increase every week.

“We had one person from New Jersey who said that when she showed it to the principals this one high school principal got the chills,” says Morrison. “I think it's more that they realize they've been dealing with this issue with their teachers, and their teachers are frustrated, and it's a pain point for everyone. So I think we're addressing that in a unique way with this.”

Getting Started With AI Trust You

Anyone who is interested can go to the AI Trust You home page for a demo, and to sign up to get started.

The beauty of AI Trust You is its simplicity. Once installed, the extension is accessed via dropdown menu for any assignment through Google Docs.

For teachers, they start by selecting from the four AI technique categories—Content Creation, Content Understanding, Research Assistance, and Audio-Visual Generation—to specify how students are allowed to use AI on a particular assignment. The tool generates a clear assignment guideline text for students, so expectations are transparent.

From the student perspective, they select the AI tool or tools they use while working, and identify the techniques and the percentage of their work that was AI-assisted.

AI Trust You then generates a citation documenting exactly how AI was used for that assignment, which the student can then paste into their work, either at the end or wherever it’s required.

Success So Far

Although it’s only been in use a relatively short time, the tool seems to be working as intended, especially in regard to transparency.

“In one classroom, we had the teacher make all the kids use it, and then the teacher sat down with each kid and looked at the results,” says Morrison. “They went over what the kids said they used it for, where and how it was used in that assignment, and incredibly, it was right on accurate! The teacher said, ‘I could not believe how honest they were about how they used it.’ I think it proved to show that kids want to be honest, and given an opportunity, a lot will be. It's pretty cool to see.”

AI Trust You is not designed for every assignment, Morrison cautions, but for key ones in which teachers want to be clear about AI usage.

“I can picture teachers saying, ‘No, don't use AI at all,’ right? And that's appropriate at certain times,” he says. “I think teachers need to think about being more intentional about what they expect from kids with a specific assignment.” He suggests using AI for research isn’t all that different from using Google, so AI Trust You at least allows students to document the research process.

Improving School Culture

As mentioned, the extension itself is free, and will remain so, says Morrison. The district is working on providing a way to monitor stats on usage, for which it will charge to recoup development costs. To protect student privacy, no personal data is collected. Any information tracked is around the actual platforms used.

Ultimately, AI Trust You has lessened student apprehension about using AI, and reduced teacher suspicion around potential cheating–a big win-win as far as Morrison is concerned.

“I think this has the potential to make our school culture better,” he says. “And that's a pretty hard thing to accomplish with other tools, and this is so simple. I feel like it's almost a no-brainer.”

• 5 Ways Schools Can Prepare Students For AI
• 10 Free AI Trainings and Certifications for Educators

The name may already ring a bell as this is based on the UK novel series of the same title. And yes, that's where a lot of the characters you see in the images originate. Although there is no need to have read the books to begin getting involved with what's on offer here.

This platform allows children to use the characters from the book series to create their own that have their own adventures. This allows them to work on spelling, grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and writing skills -- all while having fun.

This guide aims to explain all you need to know about Night Zoo Keeper for education.

What is Night Zoo Keeper?

Night Zoo Keeper is an online platform that is designed to help children explore creative writing as a way to work on improving basic literacy skills.

While there is a version for parents, there is also one that for teaching and grading specifically. In either case, students are met with the Night Zoo Keeper characters of Will, Sam the Spying Giraffe, and Riya, to defeat the evil Lord of Nulth from destroying creativity.

Aimed at children age 6 to 12, this offers feedback to kids so they can be challenged and grow creatively while reading and writing.

Since the platform is online, it can be accessed easily through a browser, both for the children working on projects and for parents or teachers viewing progress.

How does Night Zoo Keeper work?

Night Zoo Keeper features a selection of word-focused games that help children play through a story while working on their vocabulary, reading comprehension, and writing.

Students are able to write their own creative stories, within a helpful guidance framework. They are then given feedback by real-world human tutors, assigned to each student to help guide their progress and improvement.

In the app, students see dialogue boxes as if talking to the characters, which guide them on what to do next. A simple text creation space allows them to create their own writing pieces for submission.

What are the best Night Zoo Keeper features?

Night Zoo Keeper offers teachers a really helpful dashboard that provides feedback on student progress. This makes it simple to get an overview of progress on an individual or class level.

The tutoring team is a really powerful part of this service as it features real human feedback. That's support for the students, but also for the teachers as it shares the work load. Students are given feedback directly, which teachers can also see, allowing them to progress at a rate that works for them.

This is an age-based leveling system so it's important that students are treated as individuals. Since ability levels can vary across ages, this feedback is important as some students may struggle on one section while another progresses with ease.

A wide selection of reading and writing worksheets can be printed for use in class, or to share for students to take home to complete. These are helpfully broken down into sections, including reading, spelling, punctuation, and grammar, writing activities and prompts, writing styles, and lots of sub-sections for each of these.

How much does Night Zoo Keeper cost?

Night Zoo Keeper offers a free seven day trial but ultimately this is a paid for service that is charged.

A few ways to pay are available, including a monthly fee, at £9.99 ($13.24), or if paid quarterly £9.33 ($12.36) totaling £119.88 ($158.85) for the former, or for the latter it's £111.96 ($148.35).

Another way is to pay annually, which works out to £8.33 ($11.04) per month or a total or £99.99 ($132.49) for the year.

Night Zoo Keeper best tips and tricks

Keep track
This is gamified learning fun so keep track of progress in class so students can see how they're doing as a group.

Set a task
Go offline and have students create stories, based on the material, outside of the app for real world creative experiences.

Use the ideas
Take the story writing ideas prompt sheet and work with it in class to build tales and expand into written pieces.

• New Teacher Starter Kit
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Unlike other platforms that use Google Maps and Google Earth as a way to create explorations, this is a proprietary software. It was developed not only to take students around the world, but to visit ancient historical sites as they would have looked then.

Developed by Flyover Zones, a company that specializes in virtual tours, it has put its skills to use for travelling through time as well as space.

This guide lays out all you need to know about using Yorescape in your class.

What is Yorescape?

Yorescape is the app frontage that is home to the many Flyover Zone virtual tours. This not only offers those physical locations but also what the company calls time warps.

It is these time warps that can offer a virtual historical trip for students, allowing them to visit a site as it once would have looked.

Students and teachers are able to visit a site and explore it using virtual joysticks to move about, as if really there. This freedom to roam around gives it a feel of really travelling through time back to when this site existed.

From ancient Rome or Greece to Egypt and South America, there are lots of locations and famous sites to visit. At time of publishing there are 15 virtual tours of iconic sites.

How does Yorescape work?

Yorescape is very easy to use via the web or the dedicated apps for iOS and Android. These can be accessed across most devices with an internet connection.

The app can be installed and immediately provides access to the many virtual tours and locations. Students can pick a spot to visit, perhaps to see ruins in Egypt, Greece, Italy, or Mexico.

They are then also able to go through time, bringing those ruins back to life, with a virtual exploration of how it once was, possible.

Students can explore freely or be led by a digital tour guide who talks them through the tour.

What are the best Yorescape features?

Yorescape offers lots of virtual tours, built bespoke and specifically targeted at education.

Some options include visiting the Giza Plateau in Egypt, the Acropolis and the Agora in ancient Athens, or the entire city of ancient Rome, all seen from the air.

This is an ongoing project and the website features future tours that are in the works. At the time of publishing, one of the treats to look forward includes a rebuild of ancient Athens with multiple virtual tours in the city site. The main adviser on this is Professor Jenifer Neils, the Director of the American School of Classical Studies at Athens.

The voiceover tours are really impressive as these are by leading historians and archaeologists, so you can hear the passion in their voices -- which can be wonderfully infectious for the students.

Usefully, there is a tour time guide given so teachers can assess how long they can give in any time window. These range from as little as a few minutes to several hours -- with plenty of free roaming options to suit.

Helpfully, there are lots of resources for teachers to support this, including lesson plans, vocabulary lists, discussion questions, and more, all in easily accessible Google Docs format.

How much does Yorescape cost?

Yorescape does offer a free taster tour but the vast majority of this requires a subscription to access.

The free tour lets you visit the Temple at Baalbek, then you'll need to pay for anything more.

Teachers can pay an individual subscription at $49.99 for full access.

Schools are able to pay for an institution wide subscription with tiered pricing based on your school size.

Yorescape best tips and tricks

Start simple
Use the free tour to see how the class takes to this platform before deciding if it's worth paying for.

Go free
Be sure to allow students time to explore freely, as this can be a great way to generate questions and discussion points in class.

Tour together
Take the virtual guided tours as a class, pausing to discuss as you explore.

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The full name is now actually Science Journal for Kids and Teens, so this now expands beyond the basics to more challenging scientific materials.

The site founder, Tanya Dimitrova, was an elementary science teacher and environmental science reporter before developing this STEM resource project. Now the team has grown and the offering is expansive.

The result is an online science magazine for kids with peer-reviewed research, written in age-appropriate language.

This guide aims to explain all you need to know to see if Science Journal for Kids and Teens could work for your class.

What is Science Journal for Kids?

Science Journal for Kids is an online science magazine for kids and their teachers. It features peer-reviewed research papers that can be downloaded and read for free.

Crucially, this is offered in a writing style that is tailored specifically to suit students of a younger age. The idea is to give them access to the ever-evolving world of science in language that is accessible and, hopefully, more enjoyable for them.

The papers come with more resources so that teachers can work with students to dive into STEM material in more detail. Having Kickstarted back in 2015, this has grown and developed to offer a great resource from a not-for-profit organization that has a goal is to help young scientists learn.

How does Science Journal for Kids work?

Science Journal for Kids is a magazine, albeit a digital one. It gets released on a regular schedule and is updated constantly with resources, so it's always growing online. It offers downloadable content that has been written, edited, and refined before being released, so quality can be expected.

Since this has been building over years, there are plenty of resources right there on the website to dive into right away. The date of publication is on there, so time-sensitive teaching can be taken into account.

If you simply want to teach a certain subject, or specific topic, you can search that way and likely find a paper and complimentary materials all there waiting for you to access and teach.

Once in an article, teachers and students can download the paper itself as well as the supporting resources. Then there are videos available that can be used to supplement the teaching experience.

What are the best Science Journal for Kids features?

Science Journal for Kids is a rich resource and the fact everything is so well organized makes it easy to use. Teachers can download papers and lesson materials so everything can be taught offline if needed.

Since it all is stored with helpful keywords attached, it makes searching a viable option to find specific STEM topics and subject areas.

Teachers have access to a host of "Lesson Plan Ideas" on each topic with the original academic paper there as well as lesson plans, resources on the topic, and even government documents to provide more information.

The helpful "Related SJK Articles" section allows teachers and students to explore further a subject while staying within related topics.

The related videos are easily accessible as all are hosted on YouTube. While some come from third-parties, as vetted by the SJK, there are also bespoke creations from the site itself. Although these generally just go through the papers with a voice-over.

How much does Science Journal for Kids cost?

Science Journal for Kids is a not-for-profit company that aims to offer its resources for free to students and teachers.

It does not appear that there is any tracking or advertising on the site, which requires no personal details to get using right away.

Science Journal for Kids best tips and tricks

Go to the scientist
Use the Ask A Scientist section to hear podcasts, see video interviews, or read blogs written by the researchers themselves.

Watch at home
Have students watch of listen to the complimentary videos before class so they come with an understanding of the paper up for discussion.

Follow the class
Have students find a paper, within an area you suggest, to pick for the next lesson discussion and break-out work.

• New Teacher Starter Kit
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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.

• Educator Edtech Reviews

I started teaching back in 1995—long before AI became the household acronym that it is today—after earning my engineering degree and a master’s degree in technology. I learned about VHS Learning through a College Board forum about five years ago. Since joining the company, I’ve revised and expanded our computer science program to provide critical opportunities for computer science education to students around the world. I’ve developed courses including AP Computer Science A, AP Computer Science Principles, Discrete Mathematics, Cybersecurity, Data Science, and our newest course piloting this spring, Artificial Intelligence.

5 Ways Schools Can Prepare Students for AI

Artificial intelligence has been around for decades, but now that it is an integral part of all our lives, we must support our students in developing the skills to be informed users of it.

At VHS Learning, our target audience for our Artificial Intelligence course is the high school student who is curious about AI and the impact it has on their life. In our work to develop this exciting new course we identified five important goals that may be helpful for any school that is considering how to teach students about AI:

1. Expose students to a wide variety of applications of AI: While most students are aware of AI, they may have a very limited knowledge based on fictional representations and social media influence. In our AI course, students are constantly exploring the use of AI across many different fields. For example, students may not realize that AI-driven medical cancer screening programs—approved by the FDA a couple years ago—can now detect cancer earlier because the programs are trained to detect abnormalities beyond what the human eye can detect. Prompting students to explore how AI is used in various fields and contexts is a great way to get them interested in learning more about how artificial intelligence works.

2. Present the big picture of AI: Most students assume a technology degree will in some way involve computer coding, but do not understand how AI is truly the intersection of programming, machine learning, neural networks, and deep learning. Students do not need extensive programming experience to have a basic understanding of how AI works. In our course, for example, students can explore how AI is based on computer code without any prior programming knowledge. They are provided with friendly versions of code that allows an app to function and are then prompted to explore how making changes in the code affects the functionality of the app. Students then shift their focus to explore the general concepts of machine learning, neural networks and deep learning in later units of the course.

3. Provide opportunities for hands-on experience: In the beginning of our AI course we use Google’s Teachable Machine to allow students to create an AI model that is trained to distinguish between two animals. They upload photos of their favorite animals and then input data to train their model to identify the different types of animals by key characteristics. Students explore how processing more images with their model allows the AI app to get smarter by helping to identify where further training is needed. This is a very simple yet effective model to teach students the power of AI, how machine learning works and why limitations or biases may exist.

4. Explore the impact of AI on careers: We ask our students to try and identify an industry that’s not going to be impacted by AI in some way. As high school students consider their future and potential career fields, we want to ensure they consider how AI will impact those fields. This is yet another reason why schools should be embedding AI learning into their curricula across disciplines. No matter what career students choose, they will need to have a general understanding of AI, how it works, and how it’s being used -- as well as how it shouldn’t be used.

5. Engage students in critical thinking about the ethical implications of AI: We recognize that AI can be a scary topic for students and set out to make the ethics of AI a central theme in our course. Each week students discuss applications of it and consider both the benefits and potential harm of those applications. In our final module, Living in an AI World, students spend time exploring human centered design and the responsible use of AI, including ethical frameworks, privacy and empathy maps, and consider the future of AI. When developing this course, we were intentional about looking at AI through different lenses, to allow students to understand the complex nature of the technology and its applications, to empower them to make educated decisions about their use of AI, and to be informed decision makers that will help shape future AI policies.

The Responsibility and Challenge of Teaching Students about AI

Instead of shying away from AI tools, we should be integrating them into curriculum from day one. Students need to learn not just how to use these tools, but also how to critically evaluate their output. We've seen students attempt to use AI to cheat, demonstrating a troubling lack of understanding of AI’s limitations, such as its propensity to "hallucinate" or generate inaccurate information. With school-appropriate AI platforms, we can teach students how to use AI responsibly, analyze generated content, and delve into the source of the information to investigate limitations and bias—all while preparing them for success in a wide variety of careers and industries.

Finally, there’s a perception that today’s students are very highly technically trained -- this is simply not the case for many. While there is good progress being made in expanding access to computer science education, the bottom line is that many schools still don’t have access to qualified teachers who can teach subjects such as AI. By using a high-quality online learning program such as VHS Learning, which features many highly qualified computer science teachers who bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion to our program, schools can equip their students with the essential knowledge and understanding of technological advancements shaping their future, regardless of their prior exposure to computer science.

Unlike other AI services out there, this is designed specifically for education and -- even more targeted -- to help educators and kids in certain areas of need.

So, essentially, this is a chatbot being called an education assistant. But what gives this so much weight is that it's been in development since 2021. That's meant interviewing and surveying more than 500 teachers before co-designing, again with teachers onboard throughout the process. For math assistance, math teachers were used specifically, for example. All this the company calls its human-centered AI partnership model.

This guide lays out all you need to know about Colleague AI to see if this could help in your class.

What is Colleague AI?

Colleague AI is a chatbot, broken down into task-specific chatbots, designed and built to support education. This works with teachers, students, admin staff, and parents, all as an assistant.

The chatbots are designed and vetted by teachers, federal agencies, educational scholars, and AI experts to be FERPA and COPPA compliant, and get an end result that's as safe and useful as possible.

This spans from assisting teachers with planning lessons to working on professional development. It also works with students to help with homework, track learning progress, personalize learning, and more.

For school leaders, this can provide data-driven insights and teacher support systems as well as automating administrative tasks and helping with stakeholder communications.

Finally, parents are also supported with a chatbot that can help create learning tools for outside of school, and even allows parents to grade and connect with other kids to see progress.

How does Colleague AI work?

Colleague AI can be used as a native software via browsers or as a Chrome extension. In either case, teachers are able to work with the AI characters of Charlie or Claire, to lesson plan, mark work, and more.

Usefully, this allows you to go back and forth in a conversational way. So a teacher might pick a lesson from material that's already available, then prompt the AI to change that to teach a certain area, in a certain timeframe, targeting specific students. It will then offer an adjusted output and, again, you can ask for more changes until it's just right.

While it can be open-ended with written statements to get results, there are also helpful drop-downs along the way that provide options to vary certain areas as needed. This can be helpful to get an idea of what is possible or to get quick variations on what you're working on at the moment.

What are the best Colleague AI features?

Colleague AI is a great way to help with lesson planning as it allows teachers to pull-in premade free-to-use lesson plans, which can then be augmented. It is also possible to start from scratch or upload materials to manipulate.

This is really helpful at reading handwriting, so students can upload photos of their work and you will be able to have the AI pull out the text and mark it automatically. This is graded in sub-sections for helpful breakdowns, and allows you to adjust aspects such as rubrics or outputs, as needed.

You can adjust by selecting subject, grade, and even state standards to get the overall output you want. Then, in a chatty way, go back and forth with the AI until it's just what you need.

A great thing about how easy this is to output and mark is that it can offer really learner-centered lessons and feedback, all without taking up more teacher time. In fact, the makers say this can save teachers up to 50% of their time.

The Chrome extension is a useful option as it takes the AI with you into the browser, allowing you to adjust, edit, and draw any information you want -- a great way to integrate Google Drive marking, for example.

How much does Colleague AI cost?

Colleague AI doesn't appear to mention anything about pricing on its website so it seems everything, at time of publishing at least, is free to use.

This is often the case with AI tools, as the company can improve output based on data collected from human use. So whether this stays the same longer term is not clear at this stage.

Colleague AI best tips and tricks

Start simple
Use the lessons already available and edit these using suggestions only to get a feel for what's possible with the AI.

Mark written digitally
Use the Chrome extension to mark handwritten homework that's submitted via pictures and a digital drive, automatically.

Stay organized
Use the online storage space to keep lesson plans and rubrics you've created for future use, or to edit for personalized learning variants.

• New Teacher Starter Kit
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Laura Deiss, Curriculum and Instruction Specialist for Region 3 in Victoria, Texas, and Molly Kresta, teacher/instructional tech/grant writer for Louise ISD in Texas, discuss ways to implement AI synergy in your educational work space in order to achieve solutions for complex creative issues.

What AI Synergy Looks Like

If you’ve worked in a corporate environment, you might have heard of “synergy,” which is generally used to describe an activity that engages multiple parts to create a well working collective whole. This can mean people or technology, so long as all the separate parts work together.

In this case, if you remove Janet from Accounting and put in MagicSchool, you have AI synergy.

“AI makes [things] a little easier,” says Deiss. “So now let's start thinking about how to leverage it.”

Why isn’t AI tool synergy more prominent in the classroom?

“You think people will figure it out on their own but in the classroom, you just get tunnel vision, and so lots of teachers don’t think too much [about other tools they could be using],” says Kresta. “What I wanted to show [teachers] was there is not a one-trick pony with the AI stuff.”

When it comes to using AI, thinking outside the box can help teachers better understand how to combine the use of certain tools to create a favorable outcome.

How to Achieve AI Synergy

While it might sound easy in concept, a teacher might not be able to properly focus on multiple technologies simultaneously. Given the constraints and pressures that accompany the profession, they might stick to whatever tools they happen to use to get whatever solutions they can. However, a shift in mindset can help achieve AI synergy.

As Kresta says, putting the time into training teachers on AI tool use will pay off in the end.

“When you can find the time, when you can sit down and talk to [teachers] and show them [AI tools], then they’re more open to it,” says Kresta. “But you really have to sit down and talk to them. Teachers are too busy. You’ve got to find time to actually sit down and say ‘Here’s an idea.’”

So what would a good example of AI synergy look like?

“One of our science teachers came down and was asking me something completely unrelated,” says Kresta. “But he was using MagicSchool to do some things. I said, ‘After you did that, what if you did this? If you smash [different AI tools] together, take all these things I’ve taught you and put them together…’ You can save a teacher time and get students more engaged.”

In another example provided by Kresta, AI synergy was used to help transform a lesson on MLA into a multilingual experience and an interactive slideshow.

“For this lesson,” says Kresta, “I found a website with a great overview of MLA Style. I copied this into Gamma and it created the presentation (MLA Citations A Comprehensive Guide). I then downloaded the presentation as a .pdf and then used Google Translate to make a Spanish translation to distribute to my ELLs (MLA Citations A Comprehensive Guide Spanish). I also printed out copies for my students who require copies of notes as an accommodation. Once this was complete, I opened Curipod and used the Curify My Slides feature to add interactive slides between concepts (MLA Basics). This took 15 minutes to complete.”

The act of packaging AI tools together to solve a problem can vastly improve efficiency and reduce stress.

How to Get Over the AI Hump

Many are still struggling with the question of AI use in school, with some teachers on the fence about using it themselves. The first step of getting teachers on board with AI is finding out who is willing to take the plunge.

“It depends on who you talk to,” says Kresta. “I have a teacher across the halfway from me who is the most amazing teacher. I cannot get them to turn on a computer in their classroom except to put grades in. That’s it. So it depends on who you’re talking about and what they teach for the most part.”

Deiss says that it's also important to remind teachers that integrating AI into class will better help students prepare for their professional careers.

“We were at a conference where a Google exec said that they’re predicting that AI will be a constraint in jobs in the future,” says Deiss. “If you can’t use AI effectively, then that’s going to be a mark against you in the job market of the future.”

• Using Chatbots To Create Personalized Learning Experiences
• Explaining Your School’s AI Approach To Parents

This tool uses AI as a way to make quiz creation as straightforward as possible for educators. It also works to offer both group-based quiz options as well as individually tailored learning formats.

Since there is plenty of feedback for teachers, this can become a valuable tool for assessing progress. And since there is plenty of content already made and ready to go, this can be a powerful resource for teaching and learning.

This guide aims to explain all you need to know about Quizalize for your class.

What is Quizalize?

Quizalize is a quiz creation and execution tool. It uses AI and Google Forms integrations to make for a simple way to create quizzes. Crucially, it also gamifies the experience to make it as enthralling and engaging as possible for students.

Used by more than six million teachers and students, the company behind this says that it can offer a 25% increase in exam-pass rates as well as a 12% reduction in attainment gaps.

Since educators can use pre-built quiz options, and edit any as needed, it can make for a very simple way to build personalized learning and assessment materials for students.

Online games mean up to 100 players can compete together online, allowing this to be used beyond the class, too.

Since quiz integrations range to Google Classroom to Quizlet to ChatGPT, there are lots of ways to pull in current quiz options as well as making and sharing new ones.

How does Quizalize work?

Quizalize allows teachers to share quizzes using a code, right within Google Classroom if that's easiest. This then connects to a class set, so multiple quiz options are there for students to take.

Teachers have the options to give hints and tips on the quiz so students can get help as they progress, to foster working independently. Once completed, they are able to see their score and the correct answers, with a prompt to retake the quiz should they have missed any questions.

Feedback for teachers is helpful here as there is a lot of data displayed on their dashboard, which offers color-coded clarity on how students are doing on an individual level (although this is a feature reserved for the premium version of the system only).

What are the best Quizalize features?

Quizalize is primarily an assessment tool, testing students and getting an idea of their understanding. But it can also help to continue the learning journey with bespoke feedback – guiding a student with less than 50% to a review video, or one with 80% to a new quiz that addresses their weaker areas.

Gamification is a big part of the draw here, with lots of original games that can be played live and online for an immersive experience. These have 3D gaming world tasks that are interspersed with quiz questions that allow students to progress if they answer correctly. These can be played individually or by the whole class at once.

Thankfully, this platform is open so you can import quizzes already built from other places such as Google Forms or Quizlet. Only now you can gamify these to be even more appealing to students.

The AI smart quiz is a great feature. This uses the smarts of ChatGPT and generates questions built around grade levels, topics, learning standards, and more. Teachers can edit these, adding images, videos, and other elements, to enrich the learning experience.

How much does Quizalize cost?

There are several pricing options for Quizalize, including a free basic version of the offering.

The Basic plan, which is free, gets you three AI-generated quizzes per month, 10 saved puzzles, one class, up to 50 students can play live, 30 pieces of AI-generated feedback per month, and results analysis for the most recent quiz.

Go for the Lite plan, at $4.49/mo or $29.88/year (works out to $2.49/mo), and you get all the above plus four live classes, five activities and full reporting, access to all games, plus dedicated customer support.

The Premium tier, at $7.99/mo or $59.88/year (works out to $4.99/mo), gets you the above plus unlimited AI-generated quizzes, unlimited access to user-generated quizzes, unlimited saved quizzes, unlimited classes, and unlimited pieces of AI-generated feedback.

Quizalize best tips and tricks

Bulk learning
Move beyond assessment by adding images, videos, and links to enrich the learning experience of students further.

Enhance forms
Pull in your current Google Forms assessments and use the AI tool to enhance them more, in the program.

Game rewards
Use the mini games as a reward system to help keep students engaged and progressing with the testing side.

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April is Financial Literacy Month, and to that end, we’ve curated financial literacy lessons and activities to help you help your students better understand the importance of how to make, manage, invest, and protect their money.

Financial Literacy Lessons & Activities

Teaching Financial Literacy
In addition to basic financial literacy, Pelletier shares with Tech & Learning how to teach students about cryptocurrency and NFTs, inflation, and other key financial concepts

TeachFinLit.org
Geared toward high school students, this resource features detailed lesson plans, complete with videos and outside sources, on topics such as budgeting and spending and credit and debt. It also offers multiple financial literacy curricula for new teachers.

Next Gen Personal Finance
A wealth of free multimedia financial curriculum resources, in addition to providing online personal development courses in finance geared specifically to teachers. Also features a virtual conference for teachers on April 5.

Understand The Personal Finance Ecosystem
The National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE) offers this research-informed framework that describes the factors influencing an individual’s state of financial well-being. It focuses on understanding foundational financial factors, such as basic numeracy and problem-solving skills, plus understanding values, beliefs, socioeconomics, and more.

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Financial Literacy Activities
This federal site features more than 130 activities for school-aged students, searchable by grade level, activity duration, and topics, which range from saving and investing to understanding the FAFSA and comparing financial aid offers.

Khan Academy Financial Literacy
Featuring 16 units that help to build 73 life skills, this free course guides students (at their own pace, if wanted) to understand topics such as taxes, credit, investments, car buying, and even scams to avoid.

Uncle Jed’s Barbershop
Designed for grades 3-5, this lesson focuses on the book Uncle Jed's Barbershop, about an African-American barber who, despite significant setbacks, saves enough money to buy his own barbershop. From the story, students learn about saving, savings goals, opportunity cost, and more. Also features a card game.

Next Gen Personal Finance Arcade Games
Eleven personal finance games that use arcade-style graphics, amusing characters and music to engage kids in financial scenarios they are likely to face in the near future. Topics covered include the lure of cryptocurrency, paying for college, career choices, managing credit, and more. Games are accompanied by reflection worksheets. While students don’t need an account to access games, teachers’ resources require a free, verified education account. Available in English and Spanish.

FDIC Money Smart Games
From the Federal Deposit Insurance company comes this extensive collection of financial games covering diverse subjects from credit cards to disaster planning. Presented in the style of a TV game show, each episode is hosted by Isaiah and Kiara, who guide students in playing each round and offer an occasional, fairly lame financial joke. Best for younger students who require a lot of explanation. No account required, but users can create a free account to save progress. Available in English and Spanish.

Visa’s Financial Football
Super fun, action-packed digital football game that incorporates financial literacy questions interspersed between gameplay. Users choose their favorite NFL teams to begin the game, toss the digital coin, and select defensive strategy. Games range from 5-30 minutes, with three levels of difficulty. Teachers' resources include PDF lessons and activities.

Banzai Free Interactive Financial Education
A Tech & Learning Best for Back to School 2024 award winner, Banzai’s comprehensive, easy-to-navigate financial education platform is 100% free for teachers and students. It offers personal finance courses at the elementary, middle, and high school level as well as college-and-career readiness and digital citizenship classes. All courses include games, articles, and worksheets; free printed worksheets will be mailed upon request. Currently available in English and Spanish, Banzai! is fully compliant with COPPA, FERPA, and other student privacy regulations.

Jump$tart Clearinghouse
This extensive database of financial literacy resources is searchable by format, type of resource, grade, price, language, and special-needs category. To find the many free resources, simply enter “0” in the maximum cost box. Included are lesson plans, games, workbooks, curricula, quizzes, and much more. All resources align with the National Standards for Personal Financial Education, are age appropriate, and do not attempt to promote specific financial products or services. No account is required to start using this helpful website.

• Next Gen Personal Finance: How To Use It To Teach
• Best STEM Apps For Education
• Best Math Sites and Apps for Education

This month's new offerings include gaming laptops, accessibility platforms, USB cables, a label printer, and more.

Asus | ASUS V16 (V3607)

The ASUS V16 (V3607) is an entry-level 16-inch gaming laptop that combines futuristic design with high-performance capabilities and up to 14 hours of battery life. With an Intel Core 7 240H processor and up to an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU, it easily handles AAA game titles. Its cooling system features dual fans and heat pipes, while the RAM – up to 32GB of 5600MHz DDR5 in dual memory slots – and up to 1TB SSD reduce loading times.

BenQ and MagicSchool

BenQ, an internationally renowned provider of visual display and collaboration solutions, has partnered with MagicSchool to now make MagicSchool available on BenQ Boards. MagicSchool is the leading AI platform for schools, empowering over 2 million teachers. With MagicSchool available directly on BenQ Boards, teachers can instantly differentiate lessons to meet diverse student needs, create engaging lesson hooks on the fly, and deploy AI tools in real time without leaving the classroom environment. This seamless integration between the award-winning smart board and MagicSchool keeps teachers focused on what matters most — student engagement — while eliminating the need to return to their desks or manage multiple tools.

Cuescript | CSMPPB Perfect Balance Plate

The Perfect Balance Plate provides a flat, adjustable teleprompter base that adapts to various configurations, including setups like the SONY FR7. Plus, with no need for additional weights, location prompting becomes physically lighter and easier to manage.

Edlio | Edlio Accessibility

Edlio Accessibility is a new AI-powered accessibility tool designed to help school websites meet ADA compliance by allowing administrators to scan their online content with a single click, identifying and repairing accessibility issues to ensure a more connected school community. Using generative AI, Edlio Accessibility can correct the vast majority of accessibility issues to ensure the site complies with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act and meets Level AA conformance with the WCAG 2.1 standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Edthena | Observation Copilot

Observation Copilot streamlines the process of turning principals’ classroom observation notes into clear, structured feedback for teachers. Developed by Edthena in collaboration with principals, Observation Copilot creates an initial draft of written feedback in just a few seconds. It also suggests ideas to consider for helping teachers take next steps. Principals can then review, refine, and copy the feedback into their existing systems. Principals can use this tool for free this spring.

Extron | NetPA 204 POE

The NetPA 204 POE is a Dante‑enabled, PoE-powered, four channel audio power amplifier that delivers up to 20 watts per channel. It is designed to be mounted above ceiling tiles, out of sight and near the speakers. The NetPA 204 POE automatically recognizes connected PoE, PoE+, or PoE++ to deliver the corresponding amount of output power. With its integrated DSP, the NetPA 204 POE includes essential audio signal processing to meet the requirements of decentralized systems. Dante Domain Manager and AES67 support ensures wide compatibility with enterprise configurations and other network audio devices.

Jebbee

Jebbee is a career and college preparedness social networking platform, now available in the application marketplace. The app is free to download and connects students with universities, professional mentors and companies, fostering accessibility to college and career pathways. The app offers an inviting space for students to explore career opportunities and learn about educational institutions, including programs offered, campus culture and admission requirements.

Kramer | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Cables

With the new C-U32/MFF USB 3.2 Gen 2 SuperSpeed+ passive cables, there’s no more guessing once the original packaging is gone. The cables provide bi-directional plug-and-play connectivity for the delivery of 4K@60 4:4:4 video, fast data transfer between PC, Mac and mobile compatible devices and monitors, web cameras, printers, scanners, keyboards and other devices.

Magewell | Modator Ultra Encode SDI Plus Module, USB Capture SDI 4K Pro, Pro Convert IP to USB, and Director One

Magewell recently launched four new products: The Modator Ultra Encode SDI Plus Module features exceptional 4Kp30 encoding capabilities that enable simultaneous multi-protocol streaming, file-based recording onto built-in storage on the module, and other advanced features; the USB Capture SDI 4K Pro is an ideal solution for applications such as streaming, video conferencing, live production, immersive presentations and more; the Pro Convert IP to USB is a plug-and-play device that enables computers, including laptops, to capture an NDI, NDI HX or streaming source through a USB interface with no additional power source required; and Director One, which combines multi-input switching, graphics, streaming, recording, and monitoring all in one powerful device with a premium 7", 800 nit AMOLED display.

Toshiba | BX410T Label Printer

Designed for high-performance in demanding environments, the BX410T provides exceptional reliability and smart connectivity. Driven by Toshiba’s A-BRID Operating System, it delivers cloud-based intelligence that ensures seamless integration and smooth workflows, while supporting operational efficiency, reduced downtime, and scaling ability.

• Edtech Show & Tell

Usefully, this does take AI smarts in order to save teachers on admin time. But crucially, it does this with standards alignment, so it can be very specifically targeted to learning goals and outcomes.

At time of publishing, this platform is being used by more than 5,000 schools worldwide. Helpfully, it integrates with a whole host of digital tools, platforms, and LMS options for the most simple implementation into a teacher's current setup.

This guide aims to lay out all you need to know about Almanack to see how it could work for your class.

What is Almanack?

Almanack is an AI assistant, of sorts, designed for educators. Consequently, this is tailored to very specific tasks and works to help teachers, just by being prompted.

This can create resources such as slide decks, worksheets, lesson plans, or report cards, and plenty more. Since this works across subjects, it can be used by teachers throughout the school to suit their needs.

The tools are designed for teachers, so students will only see the output content, if at all. The AI output doesn't go directly to them but rather works to help teachers have the resources they need when they want.

And since this is all created using written commands, it's simple to pick up and start using, for anyone.

How does Almanack work?

Almanack can be signed up to for free with many of the basic tools available. This immediately allows teachers to start lesson planning, differentiating instruction, and personalizing learning with the resources.

Integration is a big part of this with support to pull in and output using Google Forms, Kahoot!, Gimkit, Blooket, Quizizz, Quizlet, Google Slides, Google Docs, PowerPoint, Word, PDFs, and more.

Slide deck creation is a good place to start as that is one of the tool's most powerful offerings. Using written prompts, teachers can create anything they need to suit a task. That can mean a deck about a historical event, one about the year's plan ahead, a presentation on a new topic in science -- anything you can think of, really.

Occasionally, there can be odd output issues that need fixing, but even that works as a far faster option than traditional methods. For example, you can create multiple versions of a deck, with each one tailored to certain student groups, in as much time as it would have taken to make one for the whole class using traditional methods.

What are the best Almanack features?

Almanack is an AI, so like most tools right now, it's a starting point. A simple output might need some adjusting to get perfect before use in class. But, crucially, that's as much the human prompt issue as the AI.

Over time, as you improve in knowing how to prompt specifically for what you want, so too will the output improve. Ultimately, you will save more and more time as you get proficient at using the tool.

The ability to translate most outputs is also really helpful for multiple language versions and working with ELL and ELA students. You can have one for everyone in the class, using their native tongue, without it costing you much on time. And, perhaps most importantly, it's very accurate for a natural output that will be understood clearly.

The fact these tools are built for teachers means it's all standards-aligned, private and safe when it comes to data, and tailored to be viewed by children, so the content is going to be appropriate.

Everything still needs a human check first -- AI isn't perfect yet -- but it's a big step in quality and a huge potential saving on time for teachers.

How much does Almanack cost?

Almanack has a free version as well as several tiers of premium versions that add more features and tools.

The Free version gets you state standards/curriculum Integration, curriculum design and long range planner, lesson and unit planner, eduslides/presentations, worksheets/student activities, quizzes and tests, games, and custom video recommendations.

Go for the Pro tier, at $7.50/mo when paid annually at $89.99, and you get all the above plus Import to enhance with AI or build from scratch, a variety of ready to use worksheets and activities, differentiation based on DOK, exports, custom report card writer, integrations, and a limited number of collaborators.

Or for Small Teams, at $6/mo paid annually at $71.99, you get the Pro features plus an unlimited number of collaborators and team collaboration features.

Almanack best tips and tricks

Plan the year
Use the slide deck creator to plan your lessons for the year and output it so students can see what's ahead, as needed.

Tailor everything
Use the AI to help differentiate outputs so you have versions for ability levels to suit the entire class.

Translate
Use this for all your translation needs, natively, so outputs are always suited to everyone.

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The idea here is to offer a follow-along guide on how to tell stories, as guided by those who do exactly that.

By storytellers, this means professional animators, writers, and artists who create movies and other content. From the creators of Pixar movies, this platform offers some firsthand experience in how to make a storyboard and more.

This guide aims to show how this could work in your class.

What is Story Xperiential?

Story Xperiential is a teaching platform that allows students to learn how to create a story. Specifically, this teaches storytelling by showing the process used at Pixar -- guided along by some of its best animators and creators.

This might start with Pixar, however, it also features animators from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Marvel, Lucasfilm, DreamWorks Animations Studios, and more.

Everything can be accessed easily online so this is something that can be accessed at school and at home using personal devices.

How does Story Xperiential work?

Story Xperiential is a self-paced storytelling program. It offers a guiding hand as you progress.

Sure, there are live feedback options from other users as well as regular livestreams from the pros. But for your project, it progresses at the pace you want.

This works by firstly brainstorming, outlining, and storyboarding to develop a storyreel. This is done by uploading in chunks as you progress.

In total this is a roughly 40-hour course that is designed to be carried out over a nine-week grading period. But, as mentioned, it can be done at the student or teacher pace as needed.

Thanks to feedback along the way, from peers, this is a dynamic learning process. Students can also offer others feedback, helping them develop critical thinking as well as being able to receive it.

Finally, students can enter their finished storyreels into competitions in which winners are awarded by the body behind the platform.

What are the best Story Xperiential features?

Story Xperiential is super simple to use and works on a team-building basis. Since students are required to give feedback, as well as receive it, this allows them to think critically and adapt.

The regular video guidance sessions, held as livestreams, are a great resource for students to attend and from which to learn. These are presented from professionals who have done the journey students may want to explore in the future, and they're offering sage advise and guidance.

The 'What If' lessons help to spark ideas and can be used in education as jump-off points for more creative exploration. These apply to history, science, math, English, media, and technology.

For education specifically, there are curriculum-mapping standards that can help make this a more tailored teaching tool.

Helpful links to tools guide students in actually editing video and drawing digitally. Unfortunately, these are not built in so will require a bit more skill.

How much does Story Xperiential cost?

Story Xperiential's entire course is paid for on a monthly basis or all up front, and gives you access for one year. This includes a seven-day free trial during which you can cancel if you change your mind.

The one-year course is charged at $24.99 per month or for an annual fee up front of $150. This gets you access to the entire course and all the platform has to offer.

Story Xperiential best tips and tricks

Feedback together
Practice feedback as a group, learning how to constructively spot and offer opinions that can be helpful.

Webinar in class
Every two weeks are live webinars you can build classes around and have discussions to follow up afterward.

Use teams
Some students will work better in teams with this process so perhaps use groups and a mix for individuals too.

• New Teacher Starter Kit
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When you land on the website you may get the feel that it hasn't been updated much in the quarter century it's been around. That's not a bad thing and is largely because this keeps everything minimal and clear for ease of use.

The site is built to be accessible to all, with no need to give any personal details or pay for anything to get going. Extras are available if you want to create an account, but more on that below.

This guide aims to clarify all you can get from SEN Teacher so you can assess how it could work for you.

What is SEN Teacher?

SEN Teacher is a dedicated website that caters to special educational needs. Specifically, it's a support for teachers who want to access resources for students with special needs.

The website is simple but comprises digital and physical resources aimed at use by teachers. That means a host of printables as well as a selection of apps that are designed to work both online, on laptops, and on smartphones and tablets.

The site has its own search section but since everything is helpfully laid out in drop-down menus, with useful subsections, chances are you will rarely need to type a search. Although if you have specifics in mind, this could be helpful.

How does SEN Teacher work?

SEN Teacher lays out everything for you to access right from the home page. You are met with the printables section available for instant access.

Navigate to the top left burger menu and you can select from printables, apps, and search tools. Click each and you are given sub-sections, such as Mathematics, Literacy, and Social in the printables section.

Navigate in and you're met with a selection of resources to use. In the case of apps, you're give a description as well as license details and publisher. Each platform it's available on is also listed, with links to download.

You also have the option to login, should you wish to create an account. More on why you might want to, below.

What are the best SEN Teacher features?

SEN Teacher is super clear and simple as well as free. A good selection of printables is available, with a helpful "Most Popular" option to quickly be presented with some of the favorites. Click to select the quality you want, color or black-and-white options, and even hit the "Magic" button to vary the output and style.

Other adjustables for printables include the ability to vary the activity, perhaps by changing shapes. Or edit the color options with tabs and lines variable.

A helpful list of certificates is available with lots of options to edit these and personalize as needed.

The apps are varied and generally come on many platforms to suit your need at the time. These are specifically designed by need with tools such as SENSwitcher, which is made for those with profound and multiple learning difficulties. This uses high-contrast graphics and sound with lots of variations to adjust as needed for progress.

The ability to create an account login allows you to have a My Stuff section where you can save favorites for quick access in future. You can also save your custom word lists and card sets here.

How much does SEN Teacher cost?

SEN Teacher is totally free to access and use. You don't need to sign up to begin using everything available here immediately.

An account creation option is available, but this only requires you to use an email address to be up and running right away. This option allows you to organize your favorites for easy recall.

SEN Teacher best tips and tricks

Create an account
Make this free and powerful resource space yours with an account so you can organize everything for quick access when needed.

Get appy
Find apps that work and use these across devices to help students work with different devices, while sticking with apps they know.

Play with printables
Show students how you edit and adjust printables so they can begin to understand the mechanics of how it works before using the output.

• New Teacher Starter Kit
• Best Tools for Teachers

Here we speak with Travis True, Curriculum Technology Specialist for USD 501 Topeka Public Schools, about the benefits of implementing chatbots in the classroom, how teachers can set up chatbots, and why education should lean further into its innovative phase when it comes to technology.

Creating A Chatbot To Support Education

One of the main issues for teachers is the lack of time they have to dedicate to actual teaching. Most free time is often derailed by administrative busywork. However, a classroom chatbot can help to enhance the learning experience for students while also giving teachers an extra set of eyes, ears, and hands during the day.

“Chatbots, in the educational realm, give teachers an opportunity to create a personal learning environment for the student,” says True. “They get to manage what information is provided. They can upload their own information on what the chatbot is going to feed information from.”

And how can a chatbot work in education but outside of the classroom?

“At a school or district level it can allow building principals and district leaders to set up tools that parents or even staff can use to help find information quickly,” says True.

An example of this is True’s implementation of a high school handbook into a chatbot.

“One thing I’ve been testing and building is a chatbot that has one of our high school’s student handbooks uploaded to it,” says True. “The thought is that we put it on this website and make it available [for that high school]. Then it becomes a 24/7 tool that students and parents can use to ask questions about what’s in the handbook.”

Having the ability to easily access any specific information that you’re looking for can help save time while also allowing for better overall use of the resource.

Chatbots Inside the Classroom

Being able to pare down complex information is useful, but what about how chatbots can help students make strides with their education?

“Teachers can personalize those chatbots to kids who struggle with learning a concept,” says True. “They can also set up a chatbot for those kids who need a more advanced learning tool.”

Students who need a more specialized touch with their education can receive that attention with a chatbot. And, as True points out, creating one isn’t a difficult task for educators who have access to AI-enabled platforms such as SchoolAI or MagicSchool.

“The tools that the teachers have access to are pretty straightforward,” he says. “They enter instructions, standards, and how the chatbot is going to interact with the students. On the student side, there is a learning curve, because you have to ask good questions to get good information out of the chatbot. That’s a good skill for students, knowing how to ask good questions to get good answers.”

And in the event there needs to be a change in the information a chatbot provides (or what it responds to), it isn’t hard to keep up with changes.

“There’s always going to be some maintenance and some tweaking that needs to happen,” says True. “The tools that the teachers have access to (such as SchoolAI and MagicSchool) keep logs of every interaction. Teachers can go in and see how the students are interacting with those [tools].”

From there, a teacher can make the proper adjustments to have the chatbot serve students more effectively.

Embracing Game-Changing Edtech

The use of technology in education is not new, but adding AI has opened up so many doors to how we cater education for our students and teachers.

“This is a game-changer technology,” says True. “It’s moving a lot faster than Google did [when it came out]. We need to embrace it as educators and leaders. We need to embrace it because it is not going away. But we also need to teach kids how to use it correctly. It’s another pillar of digital citizenship. AI literacy, right up there with cyber bullying and using the internet correctly.”

Having all of this wonderful education technology is great, but it is important to teach students how to properly use what they have in order to give them the best chance of success going forward. Chatbots can do just that and much more.

• Do ChatGPT-Style AI ChatBots Help Students Learn? Yes, But There Are Caveats, Says Research
• AI Chatbot Friendships: Potential Harms and Benefits For Students

HOW WE TESTED: Three prompts were submitted to each platform over several visits, and the best and worst were selected for each gallery:1) Cat picking daisies; 2) Cat and mouse hanging out together as friends; 3) Cat chasing mouse across a field, with cat on the left side of the image and mouse on the right side. Both cat and mouse are running at top speed.

When I first surveyed free AI image generators in 2023, the technology was in its infancy. The handful of decent-looking AI-generated images were swamped by a sea of bizarre, odd, unintentionally humorous, and downright creepy efforts. Things have changed.

As everyone knows, the creative power of artificial intelligence has grown by leaps and bounds—and today's AI image generators reflect that overall improvement.

While some of the free AI generation tools I reported on in 2023 did not make the cut for this article, most are performing at a substantially higher level. And a couple of newer tools show great promise.

BEST FREE AI IMAGE GENERATORS

Bing Image Creator

A stripped-down AI image generator that nevertheless is capable of producing some decent images, Bing AI image generator automatically detects if you’re signed into a Microsoft account, making it easy to start creating images right away. Start with 100 credits, then apply rewards points accumulated within your MSN account for more.

Because it doesn’t offer a style menu, users must specify a style within the prompt, e.g.; “create image of a cat picking daisies in the style of a 35 mm camera.” Save, download, or customize your images. The platform applies controls to prevent potentially harmful violent or sexual image generation.

RESULTS: Bing frequently combined all of the prompt elements into a single nonsensical but rather amusing image. "Create image of a cat picking daisies in the style of a 35 mm camera" became a cat emerging from a 35mm camera with daisies in the background and a human operator in the foreground, delicately plucking a daisy from lens. Tweaking the prompts may help with this.

Deep AI

An easy-to-use site with a clean interface offering more than 100 styles of AI image generation, Deep AI provides an unspecified but generous number of free credits. AI model options consist of “standard,” “HD,” and “genius,” with genius being reserved for premium accounts. Five aspect ratios and two speeds are offered. Free users' images are saved in their account.

RESULTS: While DeepAI's images were generally good quality, it had a hard time interpreting the prompt. It often generated images of two cats instead of a cat an a mouse. In other cases, it took the phrase "hanging out" literally. It's curious that the model didn't recognize this common colloquialism. A carefully re-worded prompt may mitigate this tendency.

Freepik

Freepik offers an easy sign up with your Google or Apple account. Once logged in, free account users can select from three modes of image generation, 10 image aspect ratios, dozens of styles, plus color, camera, and lighting effects. Free users can generate and download 20 AI images daily, while premium features and the number of free credits remaining are clearly displayed. Your masterpieces can be found in the My Creations section.

RESULTS: Freepik's static renderings were generally fairly good, but it had more difficulty with the action scenes. Like some of the other platforms, it often depicted two cats instead of a cat and a mouse. It also didn't seem to understand the meaning of "chase," depicting animals running side by side in stead of one behind the other. Finally, its rendering of "top speed" was especially comical and inept.

Google Image FX

Image FX is one of several cutting-edge Google Lab tools that allow users to create and edit images, videos, and music with the help of AI. It’s easy to sign in with your Google account and start experimenting right away.

The clean uncluttered interface invites users to enter a prompt and select (if desired) one of the many styles. In contrast to most other tools, Image FX doesn’t display every possible image style in one screen. Rather, a handful at a time are revealed, with the option to click the "more" button if desired. Not sure which to choose? Try “I’m feeling lucky.” Additional options include aspect ratio and “seed,” which can be open or locked. A locked seed promotes more uniform results while the unlocked seed enables more variety. Users will quickly find their creations in the My Library link.

Currently, there are no paid subscriptions for Image FX, which means it’s blissfully free of urgent notices to upgrade your account. Nonetheless, there are limits. The Image FX FAQs note that each user is limited to a certain number of daily generations, in order to assure wide access. In my testing, I was able to generate more then 50 images using 18 different prompts without reaching my limit. I suspect the limit is based on demand and therefore flexible. Ideal for students aged 18 and over.

RESULTS: Image FX did an excellent job with the "cat picking daisies" prompt. In fact, it was the only platform that illustrated the action in an anatomically correct way. On the other hand, its depictions of cats chasing mice looked as if the cat and mouse were separately copied and pasted onto the background. But overall, Image FX was a very strong performer and well worth a try.

Imagine Art

ImagineArt’s free account provides 50 tokens every 12 hours, allowing about ten image generations. Users can choose from 11 aspect ratios, 14 styles, plus camera and lighting options while generating 1-4 images for each prompt. One particularly useful option is “text to png,” which generates your image as a .png file with a transparent background.

RESULTS: ImagineArt was at times confused between the cat and the mouse, sometimes depicting two cats or, amusingly, a cat and a rather cat-like mouse. Additionally, the word "mouse" apparently caused it to hallucinate Disney's Cinderella castle in the background of the chase scenes. Further, it solved the problem of "cat picking daisies" by simply adding a fifth limb. Overall, ImagineArt's free tools had a hard time producing accurate, well-rendered images.

Night Cafe

Night Cafe is like that goofy friend who's always doing something annoying but you love them anyway.

With its overly busy interface and frequent banners urging users to "unlock free credits," Night Cafe nearly didn't make it onto my list. Still, its unbridled enthusiasm and gamified interface is oddly appealing.

Free users have a choice from among several AI models and even the option to train a particular AI model to produce images in a preferred style. Granted, free users will only be able to generate five images from the custom model, but it's still an intriguing idea. Other options include five aspect ratios, choice of 1-16 images per prompt, speed of generation and randoms seeding.

Free credits can be earned by simply claiming any daily (five), creating a popular image, creating images two days in a row, and getting likes and comments on your images. Without even trying I accumulated 40 credits in a couple of weeks of occasional use. Daily challenges provide frequent opportunities to flex your creativity while the robust user community gives support, ideas and encouragement.

RESULTS: Night Cafe's produced several strong images of cats and mice hanging out as friends, as well as a few quite good renderings of the chase prompt. However, it often couldn't resist adding human-like anatomy to the cats picking daisies. Overall, it's worth a try, for the fun and the images.

• AI Art Generators in The Classroom: What You Need To Know
• 6 Ways Teachers Can Tell Students Are Using AI
• Best Free Image Editing Sites and Software

The company says that through its award-winning offerings it is able to offer a "richer, more meaningful educational experience" for students across a range of subjects.

Founded by Dr. Deep Sran and Jay Goyal in 2012, specifically from doctoral work in educational psychology, it features the creation of an electronic reading environment that they say allows students to construct knowledge that would be impossible with traditional texts.

This guide aims to lay out all you need to know about Actively Learn so you can decide if it could work for your class.

What is Actively Learn?

Actively Learn is an online reading and comprehension system designed specifically for use in education with teacher- and student-specific tools.

The platform works to offer students a vast array of reading options along with customization tools. Everything is standards-aligned, and there is the option to collaborate, too -- ideal both for students and teachers.

While this is primarily a text-based site, it does also offer some videos. All that media covers several subject areas, including ELA, science, and social studies.

Thanks to the ability to view student progress, and offer feedback, this is far more than just a digital library.

How does Actively Learn work?

Actively Learn is primarily a huge catalogue of reading and video materials. Once teachers grant access, students can begin reading and interacting right away.

Usefully, this platform integrates with both Google Classroom and Canvas, so sharing specific reading tasks is easy for most schools.

Teachers and students are able to find reading specific to their needs with helpful filters. You can adjust by age, Lexile level, subject, genres, and more.

Students are also able to engage with questions that go with the text, which can mean Common Core-aligned assessments baked right in for teacher ease.

Since teachers are able to monitor student digital note taking, live, this can be a great way to track progress both in the class and beyond.

What are the best Actively Learn features?

Actively Learn offers a huge library of materials with well over 10,000 ebooks at time of publishing. But should teachers want to use this platform for a specific text that isn't there, the option to upload is also available.

Thanks to the interactive nature of the platform, it allows students to make notes with annotations and use that to interact on a particular text with other students as well as the teacher.

Useful features such as language translation as well as text-to-speech help to make this very widely accessible for a range of students.

Polls embedded in the platform are also helpful as these can be a great way to get a read of the class opinions and spark discussion points for the group.

While student progress can be viewed and monitored by teachers, it is also available to the students themselves. They are able to see their reading proficiency and vocabulary reports to better assess how they're progressing.

How much does Actively Learn cost?

Actively Learn offers both a free version as well as more comprehensively tooled paid version.

The Free version gets you access to hundreds of assignments with pre-built instruction, student reading aids including built-in dictionary, translation, and text to speech, real-time written feedback, automatic grade book, and rental of more than 10,000 ebooks.

The paid plan, Prime, is charged on a bespoke basis and gives you the above plus thousands of additional ELA articles, short stories, poetry, drama, explainers, skill practice, speeches, biographies, personal narratives, essays, and videos with expertly crafted, pre-built instruction. Plus, you get state-specific standards alignments, customization of any assignment and ability to bring in your own, pre-built Extra Help notes, summaries, and scaffolds, automated, personalized feedback on student writing. It also offers real-time data, student and educator collaboration, LMS integrations, priority customer support, and unlimited ebook add-ons available for purchase.

Actively Learn best tips and tricks

Use a poll
Place poll points in reading to have the class comment and then use that to expand in discussions during class.

Monitor live
Have students work on reading and answering the questions during class so you can monitor and intervene where needed, live.

Use you own
Upload your own media, including links, to have students read and comment as part of further educational expansion.

• New Teacher Starter Kit
• Best Tools for Teachers