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August 15, 2002
Back-To-School Software And Web Resources
By Kristen Kennedy and Michelle Thatcher
Publishers put reading first this fall with a strong lineup of literacy tools. Elementary and middle school math skill-building programs also add to this season's back-to-basics trend. As always, digital media production and editing packages help put a creative spin on the traditional curriculum, but now with more powerful, sophisticated tools. Curriculum offerings continue to build in assessment, tracking, and management features, meeting the demand for data-backed design and allowing educators to better customize learning. Read on for the scoop.
New titles from ABC-CLIO include Legal Systems of the World, Religions of the World, Chronology of the American West, and more. Subscribers to the company's Web sites will also see an updated user interface, enhanced search capabilities, and more. (800) 368-6868
For students with limited hand and arm motion, the One Hand Typing and Keyboarding manual provides instruction for typing on a standard keyboard with only one hand. The CD-ROM version includes the manual in PDF format and an e-book with interactive practice activities. (626) 335-8069
A new version of Computrace Plus, the security program designed to locate stolen computers via the Internet, will include Safehouse encryption software licensed from PC Dynamics. (800) 220-0733
A stand-alone version of Interactive Mathematics, a multimedia-enhanced math course for secondary students, is now available. Covering pre- through intermediate algebra, the program can work both on a network and a single computer for self-directed learning. (800) 694-6850
K-2 Learning Mile Stones is an early learning e-workbook that teaches primary phonics and math while reinforcing word recognition skills. Teachers can assess, teach, and review core skills and build individualized instructional plans with the help of over 500 test questions aligned to state standards. (888) 394-3245
Adobe announces the release of Premier 6.5, a professional digital video editing tool, with real-time previewing capabilities, support for camcorders and video decks, flexible export options, and clean integration with other Adobe applications. (800) 833-6687
Interactive AgentSheets 2.1 for Windows lets developers build simulation languages and integrate simulations with an existing code base, as well as offering XP support and speed control. (303) 530-1773
StuffIt Deluxe 7.5 for Windows is now available. New features of the compression program include encrypted security, corruption protection, and searchable archives. (831) 761-6200
Visitors to the museum's Web site will notice two new additions. Resources for Learning offers teachers lesson plans, videos, interactive activities, and more, as well as access to special collections on biodiversity and deep sea vents. At Ology, students ages 7-11 will find games, feature stories, activities for offline inquiry, and be able to post questions for the museum's scientists to answer. (212) 769-5993
Visitors to AOL@School 2.0 will now have access to Renaissance Learning's Accelerated Reader Book Hunt; Artsonia's AOL@School Art Gallery; two free e-books every week courtesy of iPicturebooks; and puzzles, quick tips, and streaming video from the APTE Internet Coach. (888) 339-0767
Apex adds nine new core curriculum courses to its online catalogue, ranging from American Literature to Atmospheric Sciences. Additional tools for teachers include Modular ClassTools (a per-unit offering of the ClassTools package), Evaluation Tools, and Local Online Courses. (800) 453-1454, ext. 1
Apple announced three new products this summer. PowerSchool SIS 3.0 now includes an Integrated Master Schedule Builder with updated grade book features. The Apple Digital Campus Curriculum delivers project-based curricula and assignments, including courses in video journalism and Web design. For educators, there's the Apple Learning Interchange, a free video showcase of best teaching practices. (800) 800-2775
The Internet Coach announces the release of Ani's Playground, a readiness skill building title covering art, astronomy, music, and math; and Ani's Early Literacy Kit, a reading tool kit. Also available is the Digital Photo Activity Kit which includes a kid-friendly camera. (800) 494-1112
BestQuest announces a pop-in-and-go multimedia math title. Algebra's Cool uses DVD technology to deliver a full year of algebra I instruction. (501) 228-9100
New to the Internet-delivered Fundamental Math program is Geometry, with 22 lessons and companion activities, for grades 3-5. Content is aligned to state and national standards and includes practice problems, tests, and other enrichment activities. (800) 736-2824
Chancery Data Miner lets administrators collect and analyze student, financial, and curriculum information. Tailored to meet the specific needs of each district, the data analysis tool lets educators track student performance patterns in real time, without off-site data warehousing. (800) 999-9931
A comprehensive Web site housing over 18,000 classical music files, Classical Archives now offers composer biographies, 24-hour classical radio, sheet music, and additional teacher resources. (650) 330-8050
Classroom Connect introduces a new online subscription service that creates customized Web sites for states and large-scale districts. (800) 633-1639
New early childhood title PlayBox Theme Time is designed to help educators teach core reading and literacy skills. The program offers a set of 53 story-driven curriculum units, supported by standards-correlated activities that promote phonemic awareness, fluency, comprehension, and other key literacy indicators. (800) 422-4339
Basic features of the OnDemand Web-based conferencing tool include digital photo sharing, synchronized browsing, and text chat capabilities. Enhancements such as digital video, application sharing, and Voice over IP can be added separately. (877) 623-5087
Teachers can monitor students' computer activities, broadcast live demo screens, create chat rooms, and more with NetOp School 2.5. NetOp School also announces NetOpforSchools.com, an informational Web site which will include discussion areas for idea exchange and tips. (800) 675-0729
Starting this fall, Digi-Block will make math lesson plans, student handouts, family night activities, and more available to schools, free of charge, at MathLiteracy.com.
Disney has introduced a number of titles for elementary students: The Book of Pooh; Stanley: Wild for Sharks!; Disney/Pixar's 2nd and 3rd Grade; Magic Artist Cartoon Maker; and Learning Adventure: Search for the Secret Keys. All programs are Mac/Win compatible.
Draft:Builder gives struggling and disabled students a framework for organizing thoughts and information to develop detailed first drafts. Built-in speech-to-text features and a talking spell checker help students write more clearly; teacher-made and standard templates help them write in different genres. (800) 999-4660
A new Web site, www.teaching-standards.com, delivers correlations to state learning standards for Evan-Moor's most popular titles. The free site allows teachers, administrators, and parents to ensure that a book meets their content needs before purchasing. (800) 777-4362
Ezedia now offers Zoom-ed, an education version of its cross-platform multimedia authoring and editing software eZediaMX. The new school-friendly package features education pricing, lesson plans, media content, training, funding, and more. (877) 408-0195
New features of Clean Slate Version 2.0 network security system include compatibility with Windows NT, 95, 98, and ME; fully customizable program features; automatic reboot after inactivity; unlimited toll-free technical support; and more. (800) 331-0372
Glass Bead announces the release of SnapTalk 3 for OS X. A secure messaging and file compression and transfer program, SnapTalk 3 now includes auto compression; archiving; and drag, drop, and transfer file capabilities. (978) 263-9956
Holt Online Essay Scoring is a writing assessment engine that analyzes and scores students' writing according to state standards and rubrics. Students respond to prompts by writing essays that are then scored immediately. Also new is the Holt Online Learning social studies textbook series for grades 6-12. (800) 426-0462
HOSTS Learner Link is an Internet-based reading skill-building tool that allows teachers to give both online and offline assessments, use collected data to create standards-correlated lesson plans, and cross-reference those lesson plans with reading textbooks or supplemental class materials. Additional teacher-developed material can be added to LearnerLink's database of more than 16,000 content resources. (800) 833-4678
Gateway Presentation System is a comprehensive framework to manage an institution's online resources through one navigable Web interface. GPS organizes Web-based information, professional development programs, education applications, and administrative tools into channels that can be customized for educators, parents, or students. (801) 680-3669
In partnership with Nickelodeon, Infogrames announces the release of four new CD-ROM games for kids ages 2-5: Dora the Explorer: Backpack Adventure and Lost City Adventure; and Blue's Preschool and Kindergarten. (425) 951-7108
Infinity's Softworks powerOne Graph, a handheld software solution for advanced mathematical computation, will be adding new features for a variety of handheld devices, including support for Palm OS 5.0 and AlphaSmart Dana wide-screen, connectivity with Vernier's data collection units, data plotting, and advanced inferential statistics. (888) 827-0457
New features of visual thinking tool Inspiration 7 include visually integrated notes, expanded hyperlinking, audio capabilities, and more, as well as simplified template development and integration, Web site creation, and operational support. (800) 877-4292
The IMail Server 7.1 Internet messaging server for Windows keeps e-mail confidential and manages incoming and outgoing messages to reduce virus infections and spam. Administrators can block specific e-mail addresses and prevent student users from sending mail outside the network. (781) 676-5700
The Quick Start K-12 education program lets schools select from more than 60 accredited online courses developed through the Florida Virtual School. Educators can choose from 30 professional development courses or build their own using Jones e-education software. (800) 453-5663
JumpStart Advanced, a new software series for the early grades, includes JumpStart Advanced Preschool and Kindergarten, as well as titles for first and second grade. The new standards-based titles are designed to reinforce core readiness skills and provide supplementary lessons tailored to different learning styles. (800) 321-7511
Version 6 of the Kurzweil 3000 text-to-speech program for struggling writers and readers features speed control of spoken text, highlighting, and a choice of reading personalities. In addition, this update offers floating licenses that let students log on anywhere on a network, a pronunciation editor, auto correction, PDF file access, and more. (800) 894-5374
Kutoka's Click & Create with Mia is an arts and crafts program that lets kids 5 and up paint, draw, and develop multimedia projects. Five creative corners allow children to paint in free form or with illustration tools. (877) 858-8652
Laureate announces the release of First Words, First Words II, and First Verbs Sterling Editions. Each program focuses on vocabulary building exercises. The Sterling Administration System lets educators build and maintain student files, analyze performance data, and write reports. (800) 562-6801
Ready, Set, Leap! is a multi-modal reading readiness program for preschool students that covers language and early literacy, mathematics, social studies, and more. Also from LeapFrog, the Language First English program guides students from simple to more complex language structures in a print-rich and interactive environment. (800) 883-7430
Spybotics, the newest addition to the LEGO robotics line, is an on- and off-PC game. Kids age 9 and up can build robots, download spy missions, and then complete missions with their offline Spybots. Players use infrared remote control to guide their robots in the physical environment. Four spybots are available. (800) 453-4652
Lexia will release four Spanish-language reading software programs. In addition to Lexia Phonics-Based Reading with Spanish Instruction, Lexia will offer Lexia S.O.S. (Strategies for Older Students) with Spanish Instructions, Lexia Early Reading in Spanish, and Lexia S.O.S. in Spanish. (800) 435-3942
The Lightspan Network recently added Lightspan eProfessional Development, an integrated online professional development component that will offer seminars and a library of product tutorials. Additionally, Lightspan Assessment now lets districts create their own online tests and manage data and reports. (888) 425-5543
Designed to serve as an affordable network solution for districts, Total Traffic Control 3.0 delivers traffic reports, spam blocking, bandwidth management, firewall security, and more. (661) 324-4291
Macromedia's Studio MX bundles Dreamweaver MX, Flash MX, Fireworks MX, FreeHand 10, and the developer edition of ColdFusion MX into one multimedia creation and editing suite. Schools can also take advantage of the K-12 Site License Solution that adds curriculum-building tools and sample projects, as well as online training courses. (800) 470-7211
The YES! training program for K-pre-algebra mathematics teachers now includes an online component. Teachers learn through video examples of best practices, Web-based interaction, embedded assessment, progress reports, and an online forum. Both online and on-site training are eligible for graduate professional credit from the University of California-Los Angeles Extension. (866) 501-6997
Meetingmaker 7.1 real-time collaborative calendaring platform allows remote groups to schedule and update calendars. Additional features include synchronized wireless capabilities and integration with common e-mail applications. (781) 487-3538
Correlated to state and national math standards, Larson's Algebra I contains 97 math topics that cover the entire Algebra I curriculum, in addition to randomly generated pretests and cumulative exams. (800) 530-2355
Merit Software introduces Vocabulary Stretch, a self-paced skill-building program for students in grades 4-10; and Algebra Shape-Up and Basic Algebra Shape-Up, both designed to help students in grades 6-9 master basic algebra skills. The programs also include pre- and post-tests and management features for tracking student progress and generating reports. (800) 753-6488
The Zoo Tycoon game lets users polish their strategizing skills with the challenge of managing, building, and maintaining a zoo with over 200 animals, exhibits, and materials. The software is available for $34.95 and enhancements, such as additional animals and scenarios, can be downloaded from the Web site.
N2H2's Bess filtering solution is now available for both Windows and Linux operating systems and is supported by Cisco Systems PIX Firewall 6.2. Features include remote and centralized administration, easy-to-use interface, customizable categories, and more. (800) 971-2622
NCS4School Business Solution is an integrated suite of online applications designed for the K-12 business office. The first component available this fall is the Finance Application, which offers secure, real-time access to financial data via the Web, including general ledger, budgets, accounts payable, billing, and more. Additional modules are forthcoming. (888) 627-5327
Netopia has released an education version of its Timbuktu remote control and file transfer software. Teachers and students can share screens, display work, transfer project files, and communicate instantly in classroom and lab settings. (800) 485-5741
State standards-correlated curriculum-provider netTrekker's new offering for K-6 allows teachers to find pre-screened online resources, Web sites and content, subject-area games, current events and news, as well as providing a cross-curricular search tool for interdisciplinary activities. (877) 517-1125
PLATO's new Algebra product features 236 modules aligned to state and NCTM standards. Short tutorials and applications are designed to fit into class or lab time, and interactive visualizations engage learners for deeper understanding of math concepts. (800) 447-5286
Scribblebug, a new offering from Polyester, is designed to sharpen K-8 students' narrative, persuasive, and expository writing skills. For kids in grades 2-6, there's Firefly, a Web research and critical thinking application that helps young researchers find kid-friendly sites on the Internet. (514) 907-5300
New for middle and high school students and teachers, PH SuccessNet is a Web site offering interactive textbooks, computerized grading, and teaching support. The new iText platform delivers digital textbooks with multimedia content, while e-rater offers online feedback for essay drafts. The Teacher Center gives educators access to standards-based lesson plans, their own online grade book, and professional development resources. (800) 848-9500
College guidance and prep site Embark.com will soon relaunch to reflect its merger with Princeton Review. In addition to a new URL, www.princetonreview.com will offer college applicants step-by-step guidelines for researching schools, preparing for standardized tests, and navigating financial aid applications. (800) 932-7759
Principalm provides remote access to student information systems on Palm OS-based handhelds. Administrators can access emergency contact information, class schedules, bus numbers, and birthdays while on the go. New features will include student pictures, grades, attendance, and more. (888) 569-7711, ext. 2300
Vox Proxy/CD Prep updates its earlier 3-D talking and animated character software with new CD tools that allow users to create royalty-free, self-starting CDs fully narrated by the family of characters included in the software. (303) 278-2244
In partnership with IBM, Riverdeep now offers the Riverdeep Learning Village, an instructional portal with a variety of resources for teachers, students, administrators, and parents. Curriculum building, lesson customizing, collaboration, management, and parental communication features are included. Also new for fall: a Mac version of Print Shop 7 and several new titles: Stuart Little Learning Adventures, Reader Rabbit Learn to Read with Phonics 1st & 2nd Grade, Zoombinis Science Journey, and more. (800) 564-2587
Textbook support is now available for Scholastic's Reading Counts. Custom-generated computerized quizzes will now work with Scholastic's textbook series, including McGraw-Hill, Open Court, Scott Foresman, and other existing reading lines. Customization options include changing requirements for passing quizzes, alternating quiz length, and more. Also available for fall is Scholastic Red, a research-based professional development program that combines online and on-site instruction. (877) 268-6871
A new company in the ed tech pack, ScratchCat is launching Climate and Weather, the first volume of the video-based Fresh Science, a DVD series based on state and national science standards for grades 3-9. (877) 806-4746
Windows-based SMART Ideas 3.0 concept mapping software supports multilevel diagrams and allows users to include active Web links, files, movie clips, and presentations in their outlines. Fully integrated with SMART interactive whiteboard technology, the program allows users to save diagrams as HTML files for easy export to e-mail or the Web. (888) 427-6278
The Soliloquy Reading Assistant is an electronic speech recognition program that provides automated guided oral reading experiences for early readers. The program corrects pronunciation errors, offers a multimedia dictionary for context-specific help, and gives vocabulary quizzes. (866) 442-0902
Start Something is a free online curriculum designed to help students build core values and leadership skills. In 10 two-hour sessions, students can log on to find out about careers, conduct a personality inventory, and explore ways of achieving their goals. Students who complete the program can apply for scholarships and have a chance to meet Tiger Woods. (800) 316-6141
Math Arena Advanced targets middle and high school students with 20 different pre-algebra and algebra activities. Additional math offerings from Sunburst include Math Essentials: Addition & Subtraction, and Math Essentials: Multiplication & Division, for grades 2-6. Two new Learn About Science titles on the human body and animals are also available this fall. (800) 624-2926
The SurfControl E-mail Filter 4.0 helps educators keep the flow of sensitive information secure. Its RiskFilter protects school networks from spam, nuisance e-mails such as hoaxes and chain letters, and files that contain offensive material. A new add-on component, the Virtual Learning Agent, can be trained to recognize and protect sensitive documents from unauthorized access. (800) 368-3366
TI announces its Parent Night Communication Packet, a kit designed to provide teachers with education resources for teaching parents about how they're using handheld technology in the classroom. The kit comes with a brief PowerPoint presentation and video for meet-the-teacher night. (800) 842-2737
Read & Write Gold expands on the previous edition's text-to-speech and word prediction tools for students with learning disabilities. New writing and literacy aides include a study/fact folder, Web search tool, MP3 capabilities, and a scientific calculator. (888) 333-9907
Peanuts: Where's the Blanket Charlie Brown is the latest addition to Tivola's library of educational children's titles. This interactive story uses Schulz's famous characters to engage kids in nine different games, including a magic show and a trip to computer camp. (212) 431-4420, ext. 202
Topics Entertainment now offers several new titles in its Educator's Choice line of software programs. Preschool Excelerator, Phonics Excelerator, and 1st & 2nd Grade Excelerator are just three of five new titles designed for both at-home and in-school skill reinforcement. (425) 656-3621
The four-CD Leaps and Bounds software series targets early learners with activities designed to practice readiness and pre-reading skills. The final program in the series, Musical Leaps and Bounds, allows kids to practice listening and music comprehension skills. (800) 220-8386
The CNN Student News fall lineup includes a series on personal finance basics, civics in the post-September 11 world, reports on issues affecting the U.S. Hispanic community, and the impact of U.S. midterm elections. Turner Learning is also launching Animate Your World: Shaping Character, a character education software program. (800) 344-6219
TVD Technologies recently announced the launch of its 3-D software, glasses, and companion Web sites that deliver immersive three-dimensional experiences for the PC. At 3dworld.com, visitors can explore multidimensional images of human anatomy, the surface of Mars, Civil War history, news, and more. (646) 825-6151
Tyndal Stone Media released CS Solutions 2, the second in a series of titles that introduces computer programming to high school students. Using the visual metaphor of the robot to demonstrate how computers interpret commands, the program familiarizes students with binary numbers, variables, arrays, and more. (306) 584-7331
WebCT Vista offers an enterprise-level framework for online courses. Districts can now support courses from multiple schools or departments while maintaining the look and feel of each group. In addition, instructors can share content across course boundaries, and administrators can aggregate student data across the whole institution. (877) 932-2863
Provider of handheld technologies for K-12, Wireless Generation announces the release of Qualitative Reading Inventory-3, an observational reading assessment tool for grades K-6. With mCLASS: QRI-3, teachers can administer assessments and track their observations using a Palm OS. The program offers feedback on student performance, which can then be hot-synched with district-level records for reporting. (646) 336-5451
World Book Research Libraries combine eight subject-area databases of primary sources with extensive search and browse functions. Also from World Book, Surf the Ages depicts historical information through simulated news sites that provide in-depth coverage of events of the time. (800) 967-5325
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