Taking a huge step toward its goal of a computer for every high school student, Indiana will introduce 1,600 new desktop computers running Linux-based operating systems and software in its classrooms this fall. The program could be the largest such undertaking involving open-source software ever carried out in U.S. schools.
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Indiana officials say using Linux-based systems will enable them to save what could amount to millions of dollars on operating systems and software. If successful, the state’s open-source initiative could serve as a model for other states or districts around the nation to follow.
For the full article, read it on eSchoolNews
Research instruments
Darren juz shared with us a site by Texas Center for Educational Technology with many research instruments:
Instruments for Technology Integration
01. Learning with Technology Profile Tool
02. STaR Chart
03. Stages of Adoption
04. Technology Integration Phases
05. Teachers & Technology: A Snap-Shot Survey
06. Teachers’ Views of Technology and Teaching
Instruments for Assessing Attitudes
07. Young Children’s Computer Inventory
08. Computer Attitude Questionnaire
09. Teachers Attitudes Toward Computers Questionnaire
10. Teachers’ Attitudes Toward Information Technology
11. Faculty Attitudes Toward Information Technology
and a couple of Technology Skills Check lists too.
Microsoft Education Pack for TPC
Cool stuff, gotten this piece of news off The Student Tablet PC blog, MS has released the Microsoft Education Pack for Windows XP Tablet PC Edition which serves 5 applications:
Equation Writer
Now it�s easy to add mathematical expressions to your papers. Handwrite a math equation, and then convert it into a neatly typewritten image to paste into a report or a presentation.
GoBinder Lite by Agilix Labs, Inc.
Keep track of your schedule with this planner. Use your tablet pen to jot down quick reminders about class schedules, project deadlines, and extracurricular activities.
Hexic Deluxe for Tablet PC
This full-featured puzzle game from MSN Games has a new spin for Tablet PCs. Now you can rotate pieces easily with your tablet pen.
Ink Flash Cards
Create flash cards to help you learn facts or study for an exam. Handwrite a question on the front of a card and put an answer on the back. Draw, insert graphics, and add text too. After you build a set, you can review the cards to test your knowledge and flag which ones you need to review again.
Send to Microsoft Office OneNote 2003
Keep all of your class notes and research in one place. Send web pages, pictures, and other files to OneNote, and annotate or highlight them with your tablet pen. Use the OneNote stationery created for college students, and read helpful tips for using OneNote at school.
[source: The Student Tablet PC blog]
Together with the release is a flash demo that describes it all 🙂
Check out the full list of Resource for Student by MS.
Conceptual Framework for E-Portfolio
Smallest TPC to-date
Cool stuff! This TPC released by Motion Computing is really becoming a “handleable” size. I have always find the present TPCs still too big for portability. Cant wait to get my hands on one of these to experience the size, but likely have to wait quite a (long) while 😐