12 New and Noteworthy Products at TCEA 2015

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Apperson, a provider of assessment solutions, showcased its new Evo Social/Emotional (SEL) testing module. It was developed around the concept of taking the whole child into account rather than focusing solely on academic achievement. Using DESSA, a standardized strength-based measure of social-emotional competencies in children, Evo SEL is designed to help schools assess, support and conduct intervention planning as well as monitor the progress of a child when it comes to social/emotional issues, which have been proven to negatively impact academic performance.

The theme of Bretford’s booth was “power everywhere,” a very timely theme considering the proliferation of devices now in schools. Students need access to power outlets to charge their devices and providing access to that power is now part of designing 21st century schools. The MOTIV Midback Sofa provides a duel function as a casual seating area and a place to charge devices as students work.

The KB3 wireless keyboard is designed for early learners and students with special needs. The extra large size keys make it easy to use and they are color coded to help students recognize vowels, consonants, numbers and punctuation. The KB3 is also offered with Bluetooth connectivity.

Defined STEM is a learning platform that ties STEM concepts to real-world problem solving within the context of a career or industry.

Epson recently introduced five new short-throw projectors into its product lineup. There are four new PowerLite projectors and the BrightLink 536Wi, pictured here. The biggest news to come out of this announcement is that the new BrightLink model comes with Moderator device management software. Unfortunately, the software is not compatible with older BrightLink models, but for new customers Moderator offers some pretty neat features. Teachers can wirelessly connect up to 50 students devices (iOS, Android) and simultaneously share content. The BrightLink 536Wi is also compatible with top learning software.

The Ergotron LearnFit adjustable standing desk caught my eye on the show floor. While standing desks have been a trend in the corporate space, it’s interesting to see how that is trickling down into education. These desks move up and down so students can choose the height they want to work at and they offer the health benefits we’ve all heard about (more calories burned, better circulation and insulin effectiveness). The desks are also on wheels to allow for easy collaboration.

Lenovo’s ThinkPad Yoga 11e is designed with the student in mind. It can be used in four different modes: tent (shown here), tablet, stand and laptop. The device has a rugged design that includes rubber bumpers around the edges and reinforced ports that can withstand frequent use. The ThinkPad Yoga 11e also offers all day battery life.

TELL officially launched at TCEA 2015. It’s an interactive assessment that measures language proficiency—although it seems more like a game than a test. Using TELL, English Language learners (ELL) watch fun video clips on a tablet and then interact with pictures and words. They also answer questions out loud. TELL uses speech recognition technology to screen, diagnose and monitor ELL’s progress throughout the year and helps those students master the English language.

Vernier launched its new Vernier Structures and Materials Tester (VTSM) designed for STEM classes and students exploring engineering concepts. Using the VSMT, along with the engineering design method, students can design, build, and test structures, as well as conduct bridge competitions and investigate and analyze beam designs and material properties.

The VSMT is equipped with a force sensor that measures up to 1000 N and a displacement sensor with a measured precision of 0.1 mm resolution. Using both sensors allows students to record maximum breaking loads, as well as load and displacement characteristics. Students can also use Vernier’s Logger Pro video analysis software in conjunction with sensor data to visualize the exact moment when their structures bend and break.

The Verso app is designed to provide students with deep and authentic personalized learning. Using the app, students must submit independent responses to challenges designed by their teacher. Students are then allowed to see how their peers have responded, but the answers remain anonymous. Students can then “like” comments and answers others have shared.

The CDE7051-TL is a 70-inch, Full HD interactive display with a six-point multi-touch panel. It features a hardened 7H anti-glare surface and multiple options for connectivity including HDMI, USB, DVI and VGA inputs. The DCE7051-TL also integrates with ViewBoard annotation software, which provides for collaborative learning experiences.