TCEA has announced that the 2021 TCEA Convention & Exposition will be fully virtual due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

TCEA’s live experience will begin February 1-6, 2021 with more customizable ways to learn throughout the month. Self-paced content will be available through March 5, 2021, and registrants will receive access to IDEAcon February 22-24 with live content between both experiences.

Eight different learning formats aim to expand viewpoints and provide an education toolkit with ideas to implement immediately. Visit TCEA to register and learn more.

Tech & Learning annual awards program honored nominated products at TCEA 2020. The products were selected by an anonymous panel of educator judges, who scoured the exhibit hall floor during the conference in Austin. The judges rated their impressions of individual products on a sliding scale, evaluating areas such as quality and effectiveness, ease of use, cost, and creative use of technology. They then met in person to decide which technologies deserved to be named Best of Show. 

“Congratulations to the following winners of the Best of TCEA contest,” says Tech & Learning Group Publisher Christine Weiser. “Our judges evaluated each product for its uniqueness in the market and the ability to solve problems in classrooms and schools. There were a variety of solutions nominated for the award, and our judges were impressed with the standout features of the following products.” 

Abre

(abre.io)

Abre is a platform that streamlines the software used to manage student and staff learning, daily school activities, data, learning partners, and more. Customers can customize the solutions they need, even down to individual apps, which are engineered to include necessary features without the bloat. “A large impressive management of curriculum, announcements, software licensing, PD, and the list goes on,” says our judges. “Easy to use, and can be customized by district or campus. It’s also parent accessible.” 

Acer ConceptD 7 

(acer.com)

Acer’s ConceptD 7 PC is a premium notebook for students in creative spaces including graphic design, film/photo editing, and shoutcasting esports tournaments. Shoutcasters can deliver real-time play-by-play and color commentary on the competition thanks to the 9th Gen Intel Core i7 processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 graphics. It has a 15.6-inch 4K UHD PANTONE Validated display with 100% Adobe RGB color gamut and Delta E. Our judges say, “It's a great laptop, and the ability to convert to a tablet is nice.” 

Acer Predator Triton 500 

(acer.com)

The Acer Predator Triton 500 fits the bill for eSports students needing for a powerful yet lightweight gaming notebook. It features an overclockable NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 GPU with Max-Q design, a 9th Gen Intel Core i7-9750H processor, a 512GB NVMe PCIe RAID 0 SSD, and 16GB DDR4 memory, plus a 15.6-inch 300 nits IPS display. “Fills a void left by other gaming laptops,” say our judges. “Having the NVIDIA G-SYNC technology in a portable gaming system is awesome.”

BenQ EW800ST Smart Interactive Classroom Projector

(BenQ.com)

An Android-based, high-resolution, high-brightness smart projector that transforms traditional classrooms into blended learning spaces. The BenQ Smart Control app and HID-compliant interactive whiteboard provide flexibility for teachers, and the wireless projection allows students to share their ideas without having to unplug or plug in devices. An innovative anti-dust accumulation sensor makes for energy-efficient projection through years of daily operation, even in harsh environments. “BenQ always makes quality products,” say our judges.

BenQ InstaShow S WDC20 Screen Mirroring System

(BenQ.com)

This HDMI screen mirroring system supports BYOD classrooms by allowing up to 32 presenters to lead from any device. Users simply plug the InstaShow transmitter into their device and tap to share content. It wirelessly transmits a signal to the display as soon as it’s plugged in, so users can connect and present without tech-related delays. Four can share the screen simultaneously. “Great product for BYOD or 1-to-1 schools,” say our judges. “Love the ability to show multiple devices.”

Casio Advanced XJ-F211WN LampFree® Projector

(casio.com)

This projector provides vibrant colors and high brightness of 3500 lumens in WXGA resolution with no lamps or filters to replace and long-lasting performance of 20,000 hours. Additional features include a 1.5X zoom lens and a dust-resistant design that efficiently cools and reduces noise. Teachers can also remotely display their device or students’ devices from anywhere in the classroom. “We love the lamp-free technology,” say our judges, “And the cost savings from never having to replace bulbs.”

Casio Ultra Short Throw XJ-UT352WN LampFree® Projector

(casio.com)

An all-in-one solution, this projector boasts 3500 lumens and a WXGA native resolution of 1280x800, making it bright and wide enough to see more content. With no lamps or filters to replace and long-lasting performance of 20,000 hours, it includes Casio’s Educational Solutions suite that facilitates easier use, plus an auto input search and the ability to remotely display a device from anywhere in the classroom. “We currently put Casio's projectors in all of our classrooms,” say our judges.

Clear Touch Collage™ Software

(getcleartouch.com)

This software makes lessons and group activities more collaborative by allowing students to wirelessly connect from their tablets, Chromebooks, or other devices. Teachers can view all connected devices at once and choose which to cast to the screen. It’s bundled with every Clear Touch® panel, so no third party hardware or renewing subscriptions. “Hook up to 64 devices through the software and you can choose up to four screens to show on board at a one time,” say our judges.

Clear Touch Command™ Software

(getcleartouch.com)

A software tool that comes bundled with Clear Touch panels, it provides the ability to remotely troubleshoot panels, monitor device usage statistics, act as a digital decoder, set power savings modes, and communicate announcements across individual panels or entire schools. Through a built-in digital decoder, schools can stream public television or other content without needing a third-party digital device. Our judges say, “A lot of IFP don't have management pieces. ‘I didn't even know that these existed.’”

Curriculum Associates i-Ready

(curriculumassociates.com)

i-Ready offers individualized instruction in reading and mathematics while also combining assessments and insights. The customizable diagnostic tool provides educators with actionable criterion-referenced and normative data. New mathematics and Spanish diagnostic tools have recently been added in addition to improved accessibility features, more robust historical reporting, and interactive learning games. “The power of the product is the ecosystem of the assessment, curriculum, and PD,” say the judges. “Adaptive learning, data-driven, and personalized.”

ExploreLearning Gizmos 

(explorelearning.com)

Gizmos are more than 400 online simulations that cover topics and concepts in math and science for grades 3-12. Each comes with extensive teaching resources, including group and 1-to-1 lessons. The interactive design allows for extensive manipulation of variables and “what-if” experimentation, while visualizations and graphing tools help track results from experiments. In-depth activities also provide more opportunities to explore. Our judges: “Simple, easy to use, and ready-to-go lessons.”

ExploreLearning Reflex

(explorelearning.com)

An adaptive and individualized math curriculum that focuses on building basic fact fluency and quick recall for students of all ability levels, this solution combines research-proven methods and innovative technology. It offers continuous monitoring of each student’s performance, intuitive and powerful reporting, and anytime, anywhere access. “It’s adaptive and individualized math curriculum made to engage students utilizing games, making math fun while improving student math skills,” say our judges.

Flinn WhiteBox Learning

(whiteboxlearning.com)

WhiteBox Learning is a complete standards-based STEM learning system for grades 6 to 12 that brings real-world design to the classroom. Twelve applications provide students the opportunity to design and analyze 3-D models, learning through simulations and unlimited design iterations. Model objects include items such as drones, racecars, and rover robots. Our judges say, “An amazing STEM app that allows students to simulate building and analyzing designs before a physical build.”

GoGuardian Admin

(goguardian.com)

GoGuardian Admin keeps students safe on any device, browser, or OS, all from a single unified interface. Whether it’s a student network requiring granular filtering and reporting, a guest, or lab network—all is covered. It offers flexibility for specific schools’ policies, reducing time spent on configuration and maintenance. Beacon Starter can also be deployed within Admin at no additional cost to help support suicide prevention programs. “Great products and great customer service,” say our judges.

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Amira Learning

(hmhco.com)

Powered by artificial intelligence, Amira Learning is the digital implementation of the TPRI assessment and dyslexia screener for grades K through 3, and provides 1-to-1 reading practice. Effective for all students, including English language learners, it also automates scoring and reporting. Reading practice is assisted by an AI avatar, and employs more than 25 different micro-interventions backed by the science of reading. Amira is compatible with the work of the psychometricians who created and support TPRI.

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Waggle

(hmhco.com)

Waggle, for grades 2 to 8, is a personalized, digital learning solution that combines adaptive learning technology, real-world teacher feedback, and gaming elements in a fun, online learning environment to engage students. Focused on math and English language arts, it addresses the five CASEL Framework Competencies through content, reflections, and interactions with others. Waggle also offers real-time insights. “The ability for the teacher to launch classroom-wide competitions and track measures such as grit and persistence is impressive,” our judges say.

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Writable

(hmhco.com)

Writable is a digital platform for grades K through 3 that delivers more than 600 comprehensive, customizable writing assignments. With it, teachers can offer meaningful, timely feedback in an easily digestible format, while an online suite of tools invites students to engage in purposeful writing. Teachers can streamline grading with stored comments, and the access to data helps drive instruction and practice. Our judges: “It offers great teacher feedback and individualized assessment.”

Lumens LC200 CaptureVision System

(mylumens.com)

Lumens’ streaming toolkit has four elements: video and audio capture, production tools, encoding for streaming, and recording and content management. It allows up to four video sources, plus livestream and record and live switch scenes. Video and audio can be combined from multiple sources, and the multi-view director enables fast scene switching. “Simple, easy-to-use media processor,” say our judges. “Made for non-technical users needing to manage multiple video sources.”

MAXCases Extreme Shell-S

(maxcases.com)

Built for K-12 classroom Chromebooks, this case features wrap-around design and easy-grip book-cover spine. With rugged bumpers, overlap corners, and a wide, textured surface, it provides a steady carrying surface to help prevent drops. It also has rigid polycarbonate panels that protect against scratches and impact damage, and a TPU bumper with enhanced corners extend over the bottom of the case when closed. A clear back panel makes for easy scanning of asset tags. The non-slip feet provide stability.

NetSupport DNA

(netsupportsoftware.com)

NetSupport DNA is an IT management and internet safety solution that helps educators, technicians and counselors manage all classroom devices and school-wide IT assets. It also allows counselors to proactively identify and protect students via internet metering, keyword/phrase monitoring, webcam controls, and concern reporting. New enhancements allow for increased efficiency and the reduction of excessive data storage. “The combination of so many vital IT services into one product simplifies efforts and costs for districts,” say our judges.

Renaissance Freckle Math

(renaissance.com)

An adaptive program focused on effectively differentiating math instruction and practice for students in grades K through 9, it includes interactive features, team challenges, real-world scenarios, and instant feedback. Embedded supports and scaffolds help students master even the most challenging math concepts as they move through increasingly complex levels and grade-specific math domains. “Combines the oft-used adaptive math software with a time-based component,” say the judges. “All lessons are teacher assigned.”

Renaissance myIGDIs

(renaissance.com)

Curriculum-based measures that assess the developing literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional skills of pre-K children, myIGDIs also helps to identify learners who may need additional support to reach kindergarten-readiness benchmarks—and then gauges the effectiveness of that support. With both paper and electronic administration options, it provides clear instructions for delivery and scoring, plus detailed analytics to support screening and progress monitoring within RTI/MTSS models. The judges: “It addresses the screen time dilemma faced by many districts with students this age.”

Renaissance myON

(renaissance.com)

A digital reading platform that provides students with 24/7 access to thousands of fiction and nonfiction books and news articles—in English, Spanish, and other languages. It includes colorful illustrations, professionally recorded audio, and annotation tools, plus built-in close reading tools, customizable literacy projects, and a large collection of nonfiction titles. “The ability to download books into the program allows for off-line access for students,” say the judges. “Cost might be a factor but it’s a great product.”

Renaissance Schoolzilla

(renaissance.com)

Schoolzilla’s data-driven dashboards give educators actionable insights into trends in student attendance and achievement, helping to identify opportunities to improve learning outcomes. Dashboards can integrate more than 135 education data sources, including student information systems, interim and state tests, Star Assessments, and behavior management systems. Education leaders can also track daily progress toward goals around chronic absences, grades, student growth, and college readiness. “Analytics made easy for administrators,” say our judges.

SAM Labs with Vernier Sensors and Google Workbench

(vernier.com/sam-labs)

By using a variety of sensors with the STEAM kits and the Google Workbench programming canvas, middle school students can collect real-time experiment data to build coding and computational thinking skills. Available in three versions, the kits also have lesson plans, coding activities, and technical support. The judges say: “There are very few products like this out there but this one allows measuring of real-time data to be coded into action (lights, movement, pictures) by students.”

Smoothwall Monitor

(us.smoothwall.com)

Smoothwall Monitor is a digital threat assessment tool that enables schools to identify early-stage threats before they become real-life incidents. It tracks students through websites visited, content downloaded, messages sent, feelings expressed in documents and across social media, looking for any intention to harm. “Alerts come with automatic screenshots of the user's screen at the time of the alert and can be graded in terms of accuracy to the desired alert,” say the judges. 

The Tech&Learning editors and advisers have curated the best of TCEA 2020 in one place--the #TLTechLive social media hub, co-sponsored by LEGO.

See the latest from the conference show floor, our Best of TCEA awards, and all the happenings from Austin. And make sure to tag your own Tweets, Facebook posts and other social media sharing with #TLTechLive to be part of the conversation.

And as always, keep up with the T&L team as we share all the ed tech news, products, trends and more that you need to know!

Today at the annual Texas Computer Education Association Conference (TCEA 2020), zSpace Inc., zSpace announced a 100% sales increase in Texas of its augmented and virtual reality learning platform.

One of the company’s largest customers in Texas, Longview ISD, is in the process of deploying zSpace learning solutions to about 6,000 of the district’s students in seven of its schools. 

zSpace provides more than 2,000 school districts, technical centers, medical schools, colleges and universities worldwide with access to STEM content supporting core academic and Career and Technical Education (CTE) curricula. 

zSpace facilitator Ali Worsham, an Instructional Technology Specialist at Longview Independent School District in Longview, Texas, was nominated as the 2019-2020 TCEA Instructional Technology Specialist of the Year for her work in technology planning and curriculum integration through the use of AR/VR. This award honors those who work in technology planning and curriculum integration and recognizes the significant contribution these educators made toward successful technology use in schools.

“I see zSpace inspiring curiosity because it’s innovative and different. Students are engaged with the product in ways that help them master content through new and creative learning,” said Ms. Worsham. “zSpace allows my students to gain a deeper understanding of complex subjects because they can really pick apart all the layers. They can see how different things work. They can manipulate objects and really get in there and look at things in a different way.” 

For Texas educators who want to learn more about teaching through AR/VR, zSpace AR/VR in Texas includes posts, events, professional development opportunities, and video case studies from Texas schools and Districts of Distinction.

zSpace will be at TCEA in Austin, February 4-6, 2020, demonstrating its AR/VR education solutions in booth 2043. Join zSpace and Everman Independent School District to learn more about enhancing STEM and CTE programs with AR/VR on Friday, February 7 from 12:15 p.m.-1:05 p.m. at the Austin Convention Center, Level 4, Room 18A.

This year marks the 22nd year that I’ll be attending the TCEA conference. For those of you joining me at the event this year, I thought it might be nice to share a few ideas on how to make the best of your TCEA experience.  I created this “manifesto” of sorts for those that are either going for the first time or are just needing help not being overwhelmed by all the great sessions in their lineup.

If you are a first-time or veteran TCEA-er, hopefully some of these tips will help you as you make your way towards Austin next week.

If you are with a group, create a back channel

Attending a large conference with a group can be engaging but you also can run into serious FOMO (Fear of missing out) on sessions you don’t attend. At my previous district, I invited all of our staff attending to our own district Slack channel. Slack is a great way to share resources and communicate in a group format that won’t crowd your inbox during an event like this. I consider it kind of like a group text on steroids. If you aren’t comfortable with Slack, using a running Google doc or a Wakelet board would be another way to collaborate and share resources. We will still encourage staff to follow along at the #TCEA2020 hashtag, but using a private back channel can be powerful when reflecting and sharing after the event is over.

Download the app

Once on site, you’ll want to make sure you have a mobile version of the schedule. You can grab the giant paper notebook schedule if you prefer, but lugging that thing around can be cumbersome and you won’t know when sessions cancel at the last minute. Create an account and save sessions you’ll want to attend on the app. There’s also a social feed, a map, and a few other goodies located in the app. Be sure to upload a profile picture so you aren’t just a walking silhouette. 

Events

TCEA has several vendor-sponsored events that happen each evening of the week (especially Tuesday-Thursday). While it’s nice to have free food and beverages, I’ve found that these events are where I make the best professional connections. Sharing stories about our successes and failures over a malted, fermented beverage can be quite the bonding experience after all. The Exhibit hall opens at 3pm on Tuesday this year, so be sure to visit some of the vendor booths and see what is going on in terms of evening events and the tons of amazing giveaways they seem to always have. Also, check your email, as many VIP or after hours events may get lost in your spam.

Scheduling Quirks

TCEA doesn’t follow traditional conference schedules (1 hour sessions repeating throughout). There are variety of sessions from 50-minute talks to 90-minute hands-on to 2-hour poster sessions and even half and full-day workshops. When you are locating your favorite sessions in the app, be sure to pay attention to the start and end times as many overlap.  Also, note that this year, TCEA has a dedicated time slot for the Exhibit hall (2:00-3:00) on Wednesday and Thursday, so that will likely be when it is most packed.

Sessions that intrigue me

I’m lucky enough to have 5 sessions accepted this year, but as they are spread out throughout the week, I’ll likely get a chance to check out many more sessions than I normally do (see my session list at the bottom of this post). Here are a handful of the sessions I’m intrigued with by day:

Monday – 

Fake News, Alternative Facts – Jennifer LaGarde

Empowered by What You See – Kasey Hutchinson & Adam Phyall

Making OER SMART – Leo Brehm & Bruce Umpstead

Tuesday – 

Curating Virtual Reality w/Spark – Monica Burns

Esports Immersive Experiences

Future Ready Culture: Creating Equity through Empathy – Brianna Hodges

Wednesday – 

Digital Wellness: Engagement Toolkit – Lisa Johnson & Chris Hanson

Educated by Design – Rabbi Michael Cohen

Creative Story Telling with Spark – Claudio Zavala Jr

Thursday – 

Personal & Authentic – Tom Murray

Let’s Bring Literacy to Life with Making – Shannon Miller

Infographics: Not Just Posters, 25 Creative uses – Rachelle Poth

Friday – 

Top Apps and Practices for Busy Administrators – Leslie Fisher

Create Augmented, Virtual, and Mixed Reality – Jaime Donally

Takeaways and Reflections

Attending an event like this can be incredibly rewarding and energizing to those of us in education. However, it’s important that those that attend also bring back and share their learning with others on campus.

Here is a list of questions to keep in the back of your mind as you attend sessions and look for things to bring back. (shout out to Lisa Johnson @techchef4u for these)

• What are the top sessions/topics that you liked?
• What are the top sessions/topics that you would like to take back to your campus to impact change?
• What are the top sessions/topics that challenged your beliefs?
• Who was someone you connected with that impacted you?
• Who are the top people that engaged you?
• What are the top resources you found most impactful?
• What are the top pieces of research or studies you feel are most impactful for our students and/or teachers?
• How will I share my new discoveries from this event with my staff?

While there are many other questions you are thinking about than the ones above, keeping these in the back of your mind while attending TCEA allows you time to reflect when it’s all over and also think about ways to share your new discoveries with others when you return.  Learning doesn’t happen in isolation.

For me personally, my barometer of success is fairly low. If I walk away every day and have both learned something new and met a new colleague, I consider the day a success. I hope you all have many successes next week and please come by and see me either at my sessions or somewhere in between!

cross-posted at https://hookedoninnovation.com

Carl Hooker has been a part of a strong educational shift with technology integration since becoming an educator. As Director of Innovation & Digital Learning at Eanes ISD, he has helped spearhead the LEAP program, which put one-to-one iPads in the hands of all K-12 students in his 8000-student district. He is also the founder of “iPadpalooza”- a three-day “learning festival” held in Austin annually. He's also the author of the six-book series titled Mobile Learning Mindset, a guide for teachers, administrators, parents and others to support and embrace mobile learning in our schools. Read more at Hooked on Innovation.

Acer America invites TCEA 2020 attendees to the following sessions to learn more about advanced tech for their schools and classrooms, and for the chance to win Acer products:

Esports Experience Area: Acer to host Q&A and competition demos highlighting why Esports is becoming the fastest-growing activity in K-12 education as a way to support STEAM curriculum. The emphasis will be on student participation including game play, management, content creation, shoutcasting, promotions and more.

• Feb 4, 3-5pm: Reception, Q&A
• Feb 4, 5-7pm: League of Legends, University of Texas, El Paso Demo Competition
• Feb 5, 1-3pm: Demo Competition
• Feb 5, 3-3:30pm: Transforming Screen Time to Learning Time with eSports
• Feb 6, 1-3pm: Demo Competition

Sessions Room M6: During the following educational sessions, a winner will be chosen to win a Chromebook Tab 10 (9 winners) or a TravelMate Spin B118 (1 winner). See the full schedule and sign up here.

• Building Student STEAM skills with Acer Repair Certification eLearning Program
• Transforming Screen Time to Learning Time
• Student Centered Learning with Inclusive Microsoft Education Tools
• Exploring the Chrome App Hub Ecosystem: This session is one of the first to include hands-on training on Google’s new Creativity apps for Chromebooks. It will address how these apps can be quickly deployed and easily managed at scale with the Google Admin Console. As one of Google’s select launch partners, Acer is committed to helping teachers and administrators empower their students with these new powerful creativity tools.

Products Highlighted

Acer will highlight new products for education customers during the above sessions:

• The ConceptD 7 is Acer’s notebook for creative uses including graphic design, film/photo editing, and shoutcasting Esports tournaments. Features include a 9th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 graphics, a 4K UHD PANTONE Validated display with 100% Adobe RGB color gamut and Delta E <2 color accuracy.
• The Acer C871 Chromebook tackles complex classes like coding with up to 10th-Gen Intel Core i3 processors and extra vertical viewing space on the 3:2 aspect ratio display. It meets MIL-STD 810G standards and offers a reinforced hinge, shock-absorbing bumper, and a keyboard with mechanically anchored keys and more.
• The Acer Predator Triton 500 features NVIDIA G-SYNC technology, a 15.6-inch 300 nit-display with a 144Hz refresh rate, an overclockable NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 GPU with Max-Q design and a 9th Gen Intel Core i7-9750H processor.

More information on Acer products for education can be found at Acer America’s education site.

Peerless-AV®  announces its showcase at this year’s Texas Computer Education Association (TCEA) Convention & Exhibition taking place at the Austin Convention Center from February 3-7 at Booth #222. Peerless-AV will be featuring a variety of digital signage solutions, including the SmartMount® Flat Panel Cart for 55" to 98" Displays, SmartMount® Motorized Height Adjustable Interactive Touch Panel Cart, and Outdoor Smart City Kiosk with an Xtreme™ High Bright Outdoor Display at Booth #222. 

To showcase the range in mobility for education applications, Peerless-AV will be exhibiting its SmartMount® Flat Panel Cart for 55" to 98" Displays (SR598). UL® certified, the cart can be safely moved between classrooms, and includes display height adjustment and a pre-assembled base. 

Peerless-AV will also be showing its SmartMount® Motorized Height Adjustable Interactive Touch Panel Cart (SR598ML3) at TCEA, featuring a design that mounts, moves, and stores an interactive display. UL® listed actuators allow users to raise or lower a display, up to 25.6" (650mm), with the touch of a button. The rear compartment provides a secure area for a PC and power strip, while the cable management cord wrap stores the power cord when not in use. The cart’s large wall plate and locking casters provide a stable foundation for touch applications, and the integrated handles allow users to easily maneuver the cart from room to room. 

Peerless-AV’s Outdoor Smart City Kiosk with an Xtreme™ High Bright Outdoor Display (KOP2555-XHB),  for education facilities and campuses, shares school information, travel, and weather details, as well as offer campus wayfinding, advertising, entertainment, and more. 

To learn more about the 2020 TCEA Convention & Exhibition, visit https://convention.tcea.org/. 

HoverCam will display its family of classroom learning technologies in Booth 1133 at TCEA 2020, Feb. 4-6 in Austin. At the show, the company will demonstrate its wireless, tablet-based Pilot X digital teaching station, wireless Ultra 10 document camera, and ClassFusion, a comprehensive software platform for classroom management and presentation. 

With the HoverCam Pilot X wireless digital podium, educators can now take their teaching station anywhere in the classroom. The 13-inch Windows 10 tablet can be undocked from the mobile podium and used anywhere in the classroom. The tablet also features HoverCam's 4K, 13-megapixel document camera that folds out. A built-in wireless HDMI transmitter beams the tablet's image to any interactive flat panel, projector, or display in resolutions up to 4K. With HoverCam's ClassFusion software, it enables interactive whiteboarding and annotation for lesson recording. The notes, annotations, video, and audio of every lesson are captured in real time for students to access anytime and from any device.

The Ultra 10 document camera features 4K wireless HDMI casting, a 7-inch multi-touchscreen, true 4K@60FPS HDMI output, all-day battery life, and an Android computer. Users can cast Ultra 10's  image to any display over 4K wireless HDMI, without requiring a WiFi connection. The built-in multi-touchscreen gives users the ability to annotate over the live camera image, record lessons, scan documents, or install applications.

HoverCam's ClassFusion is a comprehensive software platform designed for a fully digital classroom. Drawing from the feedback of a network of educators who beta tested the solution, ClassFusion fuses digital whiteboarding software with a classroom management system. It features dynamic lesson and notes capture; a lesson plan builder with access to a database of over 4 million resources matched to curriculum; teachers' calendars; vector-based lesson recording to the cloud; whiteboarding with smart tools including handwriting and object recognition; online homework submission and student messaging; Hopscotch multisplit; and more.

More information is available at hovercam.com.

NEW YORK, January 29, 2020 – Tech & Learning (T&L), the professional learning resource for K-12 ed tech since 1980, has announced it will host the #TLTechLive Social Media Hub, where editors will curate in real time the hottest social media posts and trending comments before, during, and after the TCEA 2020 Show, taking place February 3 to February 7 in Austin, Texas. TCEA is the ed tech event dedicated to advancing teaching and learning with technology. 

The #TLTechLive Social Media Hub, co-sponsored by LEGO® Education, will feature the most interesting commentary and information across social media from Tech & Learning’s editors, global education advisors, influencers and opinion leaders who will be attending the show. Whether attending in person or following along remotely, ed tech enthusiasts will be able to engage with the most incisive commentary from key speakers at TCEA, learn about the hot new tech for schools, and engage with peers on today’s most pressing ed tech issues and trends. Use the hashtag #TLTechLive to contribute your perspective!

The #TLTechLive social media hub, is available now through February 10, 2020 and has been specially designed for high performance on mobile phones, laptops, and tablets. In addition to their own analysis and posts, Tech & Learning editors are curating in real time the most interesting and informative social posts from Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and other social feeds that ed tech opinion leaders use to inform their followers to what’s happening at the show.

“Curating all the meaningful social media posts before, during, and after the show gives the ed tech community the ability to instantly catch up on the hot ideas, new technology, and sometimes just wacky happenings,” says Kevin Hogan, content director, Tech & Learning. 

Attending TCEA? 

Catch all the news from the show on #TLTechLive 

About 

Future plc, publisher of Tech & Learning,  is an international media group and leading digital publisher, listed on the London Stock Exchange (symbol: FUTR). The Group operates two separately managed brand-led divisions: Media and Magazine. The Group has a reach of 100m+ globally, including 62m online users and 63m social media reach. The Magazine division is brand-led. It has over 100 market-leading publications, with 10 key titles. The Media division focuses on being at the forefront of digital innovation, in particular the high growth technology and games markets, with three complementary revenue streams: eCommerce, events and digital advertising. It has a number of leading brands including TechRadar, PC Gamer, GamesRadar+, The Photography Show, Generate, The Homebuilding and Renovating Show and Golden Joysticks Awards.

LEGO and the LEGO logo are trademarks and/or copyrights of the LEGO Group. ©2020 The LEGO Group. All rights reserved. 

TCEA announces its opening keynote speaker, Sekou Andrews.

A teacher-turned-actor, musician, two-time national poetry slam champion, and entrepreneur, Andrews aims to wow his educator audience with a blend of storytelling, spoken word, theater, and comedy.

Andrews joins a roster of expert speakers, including closing keynote Gerry Brooks.  Register here for the 2020 TCEA Convention & Exposition. 

TCEA announces five new presenters for TCEA Convention & Exposition 2020

Michael Bonner taught at South Greenville Elementary in North Carolina, a 100% free and reduced lunch campus, before moving to the Ron Clark Academy in 2019. His creative teaching caught the attention of Ellen DeGeneres, who gave Bonner and his students gear to make their own educational music videos — and helped them make one alongside Ellen, Big Sean, Ice Cube, Migos, Ty Dolla Sign, and Lin Manuel Miranda. Bonner’s energetic teaching style puts an emphasis on social and personal needs and challenges and opportunities for learning.

Michael Cohen also known as The Tech Rabbi, is an educator and creativity expert with a  mission to help educators unleash their own creative abilities to empower students through design thinking and entrepreneurship. When he isn’t traveling the world sharing his message, he is the director of innovation for Yeshiva University of Los Angeles Boys School (YULA), where he oversees the Schlesinger STEAM and Entrepreneurship Center.

Principal Baruti Kafele is an award-winning former principal, master teacher, and a transformational school leader. With more than 1,000 conferences, presentations, and seminars since 2011, Principal Kafele is a leading authority in effective classroom and school leadership strategies. He has authored 10 books, including his five ASCD best sellers, and is the recipient of over 100 educational, professional, and community awards.

Catlin Tucker is an educator, trainer, author, and Google Certified Innovator who earned the 2010 Teacher of the Year award in Sonoma County, California. An expert on blended learning and the station rotation model, you won’t want to miss out on the insights that have made Catlin a best-selling writer and respected educator.

Liv Van Ledtje (aka LivBit) is a 11-year old education advocate, shark expert, and future ichthyologist. She is an ambassador for the Gills Club, an organization promoting girls in science through inquiry-based experiences meant to grow enthusiasm and activism for sharks. She is a passionate advocate for technology that promotes student voice. In Liv's limited spare time, she is also an accomplished ballerina.

Register now for more than 1,000  interactive sessions. 

TCEA 2020 announces featured speakers Jaime Donally, Jennifer LaGarde, and Shannon Miller:

Jaime Donally is a passionate technology enthusiast, an exciting speaker, and a world-class expert on bringing immersive technologies into schools. She’s the mind behind Global Maker Day and the #ARVRinEDU community, focusing on the practical use of augmented and virtual reality in the classroom. 

Jennifer LaGarde is a teacher, librarian, and learner with over 20 years in public education with a focus on developing authentic love of reading for all students.

Shannon Miller is an international speaker, consultant, and author with an  love of all things ed tech. She brings with her years of experience, expertise, and creativity  for her work in libraries, technology, and student voice.

This trio joins featured presenters Eric Curts and Leslie Fisher, as well as losing keynote speaker, Gerry Brooks. 

Visit convention.tcea.org to register or learn more

TCEA has announced that Gerry Brooks will serve as its closing keynote speaker for the 2020 TCEA Convention & Exposition. 

Brooks, a principal at an elementary school in Lexington, Kentucky, brings an educational experience that includes six years in the classroom, two years as an intervention specialist, and 12 years as an administrator.

He is known as passionate public speaker whose focus is on helping teachers improve their instructional abilities, and helping administrators successfully lead their staff.

For the latest information about Tech & Learning's Best of Show at TCEA, as well as the Awards of Excellence and Best of Show at ISTE awards programs, please visit Tech & Learning Awards Programs.

Tech & Learning’s TCEA 2019 Best of Show Awards celebrates those nominated products and services being exhibited at TCEA that show the greatest promise according to the country’s most tech-savvy educators. Congratulations to the following winners!

ACER AMERICA CHROMEBOOK SPIN 512 (R851TN)
(www.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/home)

The Acer Chromebook Spin 512 (R851TN) is ideal for schools and students. The Chromebook provides 18 percent more vertical space compared to 16:9 displays, giving students more visuals on maps, web pages and schoolwork. The display is made of Antimicrobial Corning Gorilla Glass, making it ideal for shared environments. The Chromebook Spin 512 boasts U.S. MIL-STD 810G-compliant design, a water-routing keyboard, 360-degree hinges to enable flexibility with four usage modes, and more.

ACER AMERICA PREDATOR TRITON 900
(www.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/home)

Perfect for students interested in pursuing a career in eSports, the Triton 900 offers 4 different usage modes to cover a variety of gaming scenarios. It features the new NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 GPU, a 4K IPS display with NVIDIA G-SYNC technology, an 8th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, NVMe PCIe RAID 0 SSDs, and up to 32GB DDR4 memory, powering the most demanding games or photo and video apps to deliver smooth, tear-free visuals.

AVER CP3 SERIES INTERACTIVE FLAT PANEL
(www.averusa.com/company)

The CP3 Series Interactive Flat Panel activates learning with a variety of abilities and features, including instant access to thousands of apps for education, promotes safe learning with screen and app lock, allows educators to pull up PDFs from the cloud to import them on the whiteboard, and makes notes visible with responsive and precise writing. Judges liked the product’s high definition and praised its interactive panel.

AVER M17-13M DOCUMENT CAMERA
(www.averusa.com/company)

The AVer M17-13M document camera allows users to clearly capture all materials with 13 megapixels from textbooks, artwork, science experiments, and 3D objects to stream in real-time for the entire class to see. Zoom in on every detail and see incredible quality with 35.2x digital zoom and 60 frames per second. The M17-13M document camera has an extremely compact design and is perfect for space-constrained classrooms. Judges favored its lightweight build and user friendly features.

AVER X30I CHARGING SOLUTION
(www.averusa.com/company)

The AVerCharge X30i is a mobile charging cart equipped with AVer’s patented cable management system to store and charge devices. Newly improved clip-in dividers securely lock cables in place to keep devices organized for the entire school year. Perfect for 1:1 learning environments, the X30i can manage up to 30 laptops, Chromebooks, and tablets. The X30i knows which devices need to be charged and routes power to these devices while powering additional classroom technology.

BELKIN WIRED TABLET KEYBOARD WITH STAND FOR CHROME OS
(www.belkin.com/us/p/P-B2B191)

The Belkin Wired Tablet Keyboard with Stand for Chrome OS is compatible with most cases and holds tablets in portrait or landscape mode. Keyboards stack for easy storage and distribution and a cable management compartment keeps cables tucked when not in use. Multimedia controls provide convenient one-touch access to a variety of features like volume, play/pause, fast-forward, rewind and caps lock. Full-size arrow keys make website navigation easy.

BENQ RP7501K 4K UHD INTERACTIVE FLAT PANEL DISPLAY
(www.benq.com/en-us/about-benq/about-benq-america.html)

The cloud-enabled RP7501K from BenQ is a 75” 4K UHD interactive flat panel (IFP) designed for education. It boasts classroom-ready features, a user-friendly interface, and advanced fine IR touch technology for collaboration. The RP7501K incorporates an air-quality sensor to monitor the carbon dioxide concentration level in classrooms and Smart Eye-Care technology eliminating the health effects associated with blue light and glare. Judges favored the display’s anti-microbial and health-conscious build and its carbon dioxide monitoring capabilities.

CASIO SUPERIOR XJ-S400UN LAMPFREE PROJECTOR
(www.casioprojector.com)

Casio’s Superior XJ-S400UN LampFree projector provides vibrant colors and high brightness of 4000 lumens in WUXGA resolution. The XJ-S400UN uses Casio’s R-Laser & LED light source to project colors and detailed images of up to 300” with no lamps or filters to replace and long-lasting performance of up to 20,000 hours. Additional features include a 1.7X zoom lens and an improved dust resistant design. Judges thought it was greatfor schools because of its zero maintenance.

CDI TECHNOLOGIES SC33 SMART CHARGE CART
(cditechnologies.com)

The SC33 Smart Charge Cart from CDI Technologies can hold up to 33 14-inch or smaller devices, including Chromebooks and Notebooks, and includes slide-out shelves for placing and removing devices and 90-degree mounted power outlets to accommodate various adapters. Its smart charge technology protects devices and ensures they receive the maximum available charge without overloading the classroom circuits. At 29 inches wide, 40 inches high, it is reasonably compact. Judges particularly liked its cable management.

CURRICULUM ASSOCIATES I-READY
(www.curriculumassociates.com)

Curriculum Associates’ i-Ready combines powerful assessments and rich insights with effective and engaging instruction in reading and mathematics to address students’ individual needs. It empowers teachers every day to make more informed instructional decisions, while motivating students by providing them with their own personalized path to growth. The award-winning program currently has more than 6.5 million users nationwide, and is used by more than 15 percent of all K–8 students across all 50 states.

DELL CHROMEBOOK 3100
(www.dell.com)

The Dell Chromebook 3100 contains the latest Intel Gemini Lake Celeron processors, over six years of Google Auto Updates, and up to 14 hours of battery life. The 3100 also has a 11.6” display with Embedded Touch or non-touch options and a 180-degree lay-flat, durable hinge that allows for group viewing. Judges thought this was a great update for this line and liked the Google Auto Updates feature and USB C implementation as well.

DELL CHROMEBOOK 3100 2-IN-1
(www.dell.com)

The Dell Chromebook 3100 2-in-1 contains Intel Gemini Lake Celeron processors, over six years of Google Auto Updates, and up to 13 hours, 25 minutes of battery life. This features a convertible (360 degrees) design with an 11.6” Gorilla Glass NBT Tough display and an optional world-facing camera to encourage creativity. With the ability to flip your chromebook in tablet, tent or laptop mode – students can choose which form works best for them.

DELL CHROMEBOOK 3400
(www.dell.com)

The Dell Chromebook 3400 is even faster with the latest Intel Gemini Lake Celeron processors – Dual or Quad core and up to 8GB memory, over six years of Google Auto Updates and a larger 14-inch screen size for more viewing space. Featuring an optional Full HD display and up to 12 hours, 58 minutes of battery life to help students get through the class-to-homework day.

DELL LATITUDE 3300
(www.dell.com)

The Latitude 3300 for Education offers a higher resolution display and up to 16 hours and 52 minutes of battery life3 in a 13” notebook with an Embedded Full HD Touch option. The notebook is available with Intel Celeron, Pentium, and up to Core i5 processors to support the demands of students needing more power and performance. The device features USB-Type C for power and data transfer, DDR4 4GB or 8GB memory options.

EDUCATION GALAXY LIFTOFF
(educationgalaxy.com)

Liftoff is a Math and Reading intervention supplement that provides practice and instruction in a highly-engaging learning environment. First, students take an adaptive diagnostic to determine their level of proficiency within a set of vertically aligned topics and skills. Once their learning gaps are identified, students work through a personalized learning path that will quickly “lift” them up to grade-level. Liftoff is available in English and Spanish and includes text-to-speech support in both languages.

EPSON POWERLITE 700U
(epson.com)

The Epson PowerLite 700U ultra short-throw 3LCD laser display features up to 130 inches in portrait or landscape mode — and diverse connectivity options. With 4,000 lumens of white brightness and 4,000 lumens of color brightness, as well as native WUXGA Full HD resolution, the PowerLite 700U delivers image quality in any classroom. The display enables content sharing with the Epson iProjection App available for Chromebooks, PCs, Macs, iOS, and Android devices.

EXTRON SHARELINK PRO 1000
(www.extron.com/product/sharelinkpro1000)

The ShareLink Pro 1000 is a collaboration gateway that enables instructors and students to share AV content from their computer, tablet, or smartphone to a display. Users can connect and share wirelessly or via HDMI, allowing educational institutions to easily integrate AV and mobile devices into classrooms, huddle spaces, and other presentation venues. Other features include collaboration mode, a moderator mode, full screen mirroring for all devices, and more.

HOVERCAM CLASSFUSION
(www.thehovercam.com/classfusion)

HoverCam ClassFusion features multiple tools to add incredible ease to teaching, such as a lesson plan builder with access to a database of over 4 million resources matched to curriculum; teachers’ calendars; and space-saving, vector-based lesson recording to the cloud. It also allows teachers to retrieve homework submitted online and track students’ progress. Other features include whiteboarding smart tools that automatically recognizes handwriting and objects and direct student messaging, making ClassFusion a complete classroom hub.

HOVERCAM PILOT X
(www.thehovercam.com/pilot)

The HoverCam Pilot X is a fully integrated and portable wireless digital teaching station that offers similar connectivity options as the Pilot 3, with the addition of a removable 13-inch 10-point-touch tablet. The tablet features a Windows OS, 13MP document camera, and wireless 4K image mirroring function, a built-in wireless HDMI transmitter, and more. The station also features HoverCam’s ClassFusion software to enable interactive whiteboarding, annotation, and desktop marking for lesson recording.

LIGHTSPEED SYSTEMS RELAY
(www.lightspeedsystems.com)

The cloud-based Relay eliminates the need for multiple systems to filter, monitor, and manage devices with features for granular user activity reporting; content filtering, including social media and SSL sites, with flexible policies; real-time suspicious activity alerts; and geolocation for lost and stolen devices. Relay’s filtering is powered by patent-pending Smart Agents, which have the abilities to protect any device, anytime, and anywhere.

LIGHTSPEED SYSTEMS RELAY CLASSROOM
(www.lightspeedsystems.com)

The cloud-based Relay Classroom is a disruption to classroom device monitoring technology. Relay Classroom leverages machine-learning AI to provide insights into student browsing behavior. Rather than depend on teachers to identify unusual browsing on sight, Relay Classroom alerts teachers when it happens, zeroing in on students who may be distracted or struggling. Although teachers have the capability to live-monitor student device screens with Relay Classroom, the solution’s alerts free them from that responsibility.

LUMENS INTEGRATION INC. VCB10U EPTZ CAMERA
(www.lumens.com.tw/index.php)

Lumens VCB10U is a HD ePTZ camera designed for videoconferencing and distance learning. It supports USB 3.0. The camera comes with a built-in TV mount and has a 120 degree wide viewing angle. The camera has a built-in microphone and supports 64 preset positions. The VCB10U is compatible with all video cloud systems such as Skype, Zoom, Blue Jeans, etc. “I loved the camera and it’s a great price point,” said one judge.

MAX EXTREME KEYCASE FOR IPAD 5/6
(www.maxcases.com)

The MAX Extreme KeyCase is a one of a kind case for iPad as used in classrooms. The rugged design is built to protect your iPad while providing MAXimum functionality and productivity. The MAX Extreme KeyCase features an MFi Certified Lightning connection between your iPad and keyboard, a clear back panel for easy visibility, a keyboard with tamper resistant keys, and more. Judges said the product was a great case for an equally great price.

MERGE CUBE
(mergevr.com/cube)

MERGE Cube allows students and teachers to hold and interact with virtual objects to support active learning in the classroom, lab, library and Makerspace. Teachers use it for classroom and lab instruction by converting models from 3D libraries such as Google Poly or Microsoft Remix into virtual objects that students can hold to illustrate STEM concepts and visualize data. Judges loved its inexpensive pricing, simplicity, and the variety of educational opportunities it offers.

NETSUPPORT DNA
(www.netsupportschool.com)

NetSupport DNA is an education-focused IT Asset Management functionality to help track, manage and support school & district wide IT assets from a central point, with a unique toolkit of internet safety features to help protect students while promoting digital citizenship and responsible online behavior. Age appropriate internet controls, webcam blocking and USB security and ‘report a concern’ features all work together to protect students while allowing students to alert staff if they encounter any worrying issues.

NETSUPPORT SCHOOL
(www.netsupportschool.com)

NetSupport School is a multi-platform classroom management solution allowing educators to monitor, manage and interact with any type of student device in the classroom. Designed to aid the delivery of effective technology led instruction, NetSupport School follows ISTE standards while facilitating and inspiring student learning and creativity. Collaboration tools, including screen sharing and group chat, allows students to problem solve as well as use their creativity to reach a solution.

NEWLINE INTERACTIVE TRUTOUCH RS
(newline-interactive.com/usa)

The TruTouch RS from NewLine Interactive is an interactive touchscreen display perfectly tailored for the classroom. With their nonproprietary technology, teachers and students can use any laptop, mobile source or software they prefer, giving them the best chances for success. Their easy to use system includes features such as virtual whiteboard, integrated wireless presentation capabilities, and both Windows and Android operating systems on-board. Judges liked its ability to facilitate student collaboration.

OVERDRIVE EDUCATION SORA
(www.overdrive.com/schools)

Sora, a new reading app launched this school year, contributed to record-breaking digital book adoption by giving more students access to ebooks and audiobooks. The OverDrive Education catalog includes two million ebooks and audiobooks in virtually all subjects. Students can access the school and local library’s digital collections anytime, anywhere. Sora also features dyslexic font, exportable notes and highlights, a built-in dictionary and other personalized learning tools.

PEARSON PROJECT IMAGINE U.S. HISTORY
(www.pearsonschool.com)

Project Imagine is a digital companion program for the U.S. History classroom. Using new technology, these supplemental modules contain immersive experiences which are designed to engage them through primary sources and technology. Each module concludes with a civic discussion and document-based writing activity. All of these resources are designed to be used together or apart, and can be used with any other resource in the classroom.

PEARSON REALIZE
(www.pearsonrealize.com/index.html#/)

Pearson Realize provides single sign-on access to Pearson content, assessments, student data, and management tools. Educators can customize materials, access student work, and streamline planning. Realize is home to over 850 programs across all subject areas and grade levels, offering universal access with one sign-on. Customize by adding content, rearranging lessons, editing tests, and selecting assignments. Sharing content, assessments, and rosters is even easier when working with Pearson Realize and Google G Suite for Education.

RENAISSANCE ACCELERATED READER
(www.renaissance.com)

Renaissance Accelerated Reader provides unparalleled insight into students’ independent reading practice, research-proven goal setting tools, activities that span a variety of skills and text types, and a worldwide community of support. Students enjoy endless reading choices and gain the agency required to truly fall in love with reading and grow as learners.

RENAISSANCE MYON READER
(www.renaissance.com)

Renaissance myON Reader is a student-centered, personalized literacy program that gives students access to thousands of enhanced digital books. Students can read at school or at home on any internet-enabled device. Titles are dynamically matched to each individual student’s interests, grade, and Lexile reading level. myON Reader includes a healthy mix of fiction and nonfiction content from over 50 third-party publishers. Judges favored its title-matching feature and its ability to foster student engagement and achievement.

RENAISSANCE MYON NEWS
(www.renaissance.com/products/myon-news)

Renaissance myON News, powered by News- O-Matic, delivers age-appropriate digital news articles for students, reporting on timely topics and current events. Articles incorporate engaging multimedia—videos, slideshows and photo galleries—to help students better understand the news. Subjects cover everything from space science and endangered species to football and fashion, engaging even the most reluctant reader. Every article is reviewed by a child psychologist and designed to empower learners with authoritative information, helping children become tomorrow’s responsible citizens.

RENAISSANCE STAR 360
(www.renaissance.com)

A comprehensive pre-K–12 interim and formative assessment suite, Renaissance Star 360 delivers the valid, reliable screening, progress monitoring, and student growth data educators need to make informed decisions. Educators see precisely what students have mastered, the goals they need to reach, and optimal paths to proficiency. In addition, Star 360 includes Renaissance Star Spanish® to give educators the insight needed to determine the best instruction to meet the needs of Spanish-speaking English learners.

RENAISSANCE-U
(www.renaissance.com)

Renaissance-U is a blended service that pairs an expert coach with engaging and evolving on-demand content in best practices for Renaissance’s reading, math, and assessment solutions. The expert coach helps plan the implementation for the school year and provides ongoing expertise for conversations around data, implementation roadblocks, and facilitating collaboration among educators in the school. The on-demand content offers a variety of videos, tutorials, and activities that fit the flexibility of an educator’s schedule.

VERNIER EXPLORING MOTION AND FORCE WITH GO DIRECT SENSOR CART ACTIVITY MODULE
(www.vernier.com/msb-cart-e)

Vernier Software & Technology released the Exploring Motion and Force with Go Direct Sensor Cart downloadable activity module to engage students as they investigate key STEM concepts. The seven experiments found in the activity module explore frictional forces, motion, and simple machines, such as the lever, ramp, and pulley, all using the Go Direct Sensor Cart and other materials typically found in the classroom. Judges liked its hands-on approach to teaching students about motion and force.

VERNIER SOFTWARE & TECHNOLOGY CODING WITH MBOT: LIFE HACKS
(www.vernier.com)

The new Coding with mBot: Life Hacks activity module from Vernier Software & Technology teaches middle and high school students about important 21st century coding concepts as they participate in handson learning. The seven activities featured in the downloadable module introduce problem solving strategies, nurture creativity, strengthen critical thinking skills, and build students’ confidence as they learn coding language. Judges liked the product’s cost-effectiveness and that it supports higher level thinking through coding.

VIEWSONIC MYVIEWBOARD FOR WINDOWS
(www.viewsonic.com/us)

The ViewSonic myViewBoard for Windows is an interactive annotation software that is integrated into all ViewSonic ViewBoard interactive displays. Features include an AI pen, QR Code Sharing, single Sign-On, and a “Throw” feature that lets users share content and files from a mobile device to the ViewBoard display. Judges liked its content-sharing ability and that it’s free, although more features become available after buying at least one board.

ARE YOU GOING TO ISTE AND HAVE A GREAT PRODUCT TO NOMINATE?

Stay tuned for Tech & Learning’s Best of ISTE contest, opening in March! I have a generic Best of Show logo you can use if needed.

At a special reception at the TCEA conference in San Antonio, Tech & Learning announced the winners of the TCEA Best of Show awards, as well as the top three winners of the Awards of Excellence Contest. 

“Congratulations to all of our winners,” says Content Director Christine Weiser. “Each of our winning products were evaluated by some of the country’s most innovative educators. Being selected as a winner is a true stamp of approval that these products are making an impact in the way schools teach and learn.” 

And the winners are…

Awards of Excellence Top Three Winners

In the category of Classroom, the award goes to: MERGE Cube

In the category of School, the award goes to: zSpace AR/VR Laptop

In the category of District, the award goes to: HoverCam Pilot 3

Click here to read more about the Awards of Excellence Finalists and Honorable Mention winners. 

TCEA Best of Show Winners

Acer Chromebook Spin 512 (R851TN) & Predator Triton 900

AVer M17-13M Document Camera, CP3 Series Interactive Flat Panel & X30i Charging Solution

Belkin Wired Tablet Keyboard with Stand for Chrome OS™ (USB-C™ Connector) (Model B2B191)

BenQ RP7501K 4K UHD interactive flat panel display

CDI Technologies SC33 Smart Charge Cart from CDI Technologies

Casio Superior XJ-S400UN LampFree Projector

Curriculum Associates i-Ready

Dell Chromebook 3100, Chromebook 3100 2-in-1, Latitude 3300 & Chromebook 3400 

Education Galaxy Liftoff - Adaptive Intervention

Epson PowerLite® 700U

Extron ShareLink Pro 1000

HoverCam Pilot X & ClassFusion Relay Classroom

Lumens Integration Inc. VCB10U ePTZ Camera

MAXCases MAX Extreme KeyCase for iPad 5/6

MERGE Cube

NetSupport School & NetSupport DNA

Newline Interactive TruTouch RS

OverDrive Education

Pearson Project Imagine U.S. History &  Realize

Renaissance Accelerated Reader, myON Reader, myON News, powered by News-O-Matic, Star 360, & Renaissance-U

Vernier Software & Technology Coding with mBot: Life Hacks & Exploring Motion and Force with Go Direct Sensor Cart

ViewSonic myViewBoard for Windows [Interactive Annotation Software]

More details about these winning products will be included in the March issue of Tech & Learning.

HoverCam will showcase its Pilot Series of digital teaching stations; wireless Ultra 10 document camera; and ClassFusion, a classroom presentation and learning management system in booth 1673 at TCEA 2019.

At its booth, HoverCam will showcase the Pilot X a tablet-based, battery-operated wireless digital teaching station that's designed for ultramobility. The Pilot's wireless transceiver instantly beams the podium's screen and touch annotations to any interactive flat panel, projector, or TV in HD resolutions up to 4K. The tablet can be charged while docked in the station or be removed to grant teachers more flexibility around the classroom. At the end of day, users simply remove the tablet and store it in the base for security.

Also at the show will be the Pilot 3, a fully integrated wireless digital podium teaching station. Featuring a Windows PC, 13-megapixel document camera, and 21-inch touchscreen with wireless HD mirroring functionality in a mobile podium, it  combines the most important elements used in today's digital classrooms.

HoverCam's Ultra 10 is a document camera  that features a 7.1-inch capacitive touchscreen, true 4K HDMI output, 16-megapixel sensor, and an Android computer. The built-in, multitouch viewing monitor allows educators to see exactly what their students see without having to turn their backs. 

Attendees will also have the opportunity to see a demonstration of ClassFusion, HoverCam's software that integrates a classroom presentation system with a learning management system.

More information on HoverCam's full line of education solutions is available at thehovercam.com.

BenQ will feature its display solutions for education at the 2019 Texas Computer Education Association (TCEA) Convention and Exposition, Feb. 4-8 at the Henry B. González Convention Center in San Antonio. In booth 1562, BenQ will show educators interactive flat panels, laser projectors and collaboration solutions that aim to help transform the learning experience for every student.

RP Series IFPs 

The 4K UHD IFP lineup includes the 65" RP6501K, 75" RP7501K and 86" RP8601K to fit any big or small classroom. The IFPs include an anti-glare, bacteria-resistant screen that kills most germs accumulating on screen surfaces; a CO2 air quality sensor that monitors the CO2 concentration level in classrooms; and BenQ's Smart Eye-Care technology, which is certified to remove the blue light and flicker that can cause eye strain and CVS-related eye problems.  The cloud-enabled IFPs can be voice- and remote-controlled.

Blue Core laser projectors
The interactive ultra-short-throw WXGA (1280 x 800) LW890UST, full HD LH890UST (1920 x 1080) and the short-throw WXGA (1280 x 800) LW820ST are the first interactive K-12 laser projectors from the new Blue Core family that can be configured for either pen or touch interactivity. The short-throw WUXGA LU951ST, WUXGA LU950, full HD LH720, WXGA LW720 and XGA LX720 deliver up to 5,000 ANSI lumens of brightness and high contrast without lamps, filters or color decay. All projectors have been designed with BenQ's DustGuard technology, including sealed laser modules to protect the laser bank.  BenQ's LK953ST and LK952 laser projectors are the latest addition to the Blue Core family. They are the first 4K UHD HDR projectors designed to deliver razor-sharp images and support the 4K HDR output of premium notebooks that are becoming the standard for users in huddle rooms and other collaborative business spaces.

BenQ's new InstaShow WDC20 wireless presentation system is a software-free solution that allows multiple presenters to lead from any device. The plug-and-play operation is compatible with any OS or hardware platform. BenQ features Open Pluggable Specification (OPS), which helps schools standardize the design and development of their devices and pluggable media players.

More information on the full line of BenQ products is available at www.BenQ.com.

For the latest information about Tech & Learning's Awards of Excellence, as well as Best of Show at ISTE and Best of Show at TCEA awards programs, please visit Tech & Learning Awards Programs.

Last year at TCEA, our team of advisors served as judges for our annual “Best of Show” contest.  They each received a list of nominated products, and anonymously visited the related booths to see demonstrations of these products. They then rated these products on: quality, effectiveness, and the product’s ability to solve specific problems for schools. The judges then met with our editors to decide which nominees would receive their stamp of approval.

Winners included products ranging from laptops like the Acer TravelMate Spin B1 , AV solutions like the HoverCam Pilot, classroom management tools like NetSupport School, digital curriculum like Renaissance Accelerated Reader 360, and more. 

Want to nominate a product for the 2019 Best of TCEA contest? Click here for more information (DEADLINE EXTENDED: February 1, 2019). Email Christine Weiser at christine.weiser@futurenet.com with any questions. 

Patty Low with Explore Learning demonstrates its two products: Gizmos and Reflex.

Tech & Learning announced the winners of the 2018 TCEA Best of Show Awards. Thanks to our team of advisors for sharing their time and expertise to explore the latest and greatest announcements from participating vendors. Click here to read more about the 2018 winners and here for more information about nominating your product for the 2019 contest (DEADLINE: January 26, 2019). 

Tech & Learning presented its annual awards program that honors nominated products at the annual TCEA conference. Please join us in congratulating the following winners! 

To learn more about Tech & Learning's Awards of Excellence as well as Best of Show at ISTE and Best of Show at TCEA awards programs, please visit Tech & Learning Awards Programs.

Acer America Acer Chromebook R 11 C738T

The Acer Chromebook R 11 C738T is packed with the latest technology and features, combined with the ease of use of Chrome, for a faster, more productive and engaging experience for students. The 360-degree dual-torque hinges allow the Chromebook to be easily transitioned among four modes, yet keep the display secure and stable. At just 0.76 inches thin and weighing only 2.76 lbs, the C738T is lightweight even for younger students and slips into backpacks effortlessly. Acer education customers can also take advantage of the Acer Educare Warranty Programs to further protect their investment with solutions such as battery replacement, paid two-way shipping, and accidental damage protection.

Acer America
Acer Switch Alpha 12

The Acer Switch Alpha 12 is a portable and flexible 2-in-1 Windows 10 notebook that provides cool, quiet operation ideal for use by students at school or home. Some of the many highlights include a fanless and anti-slip design, a vibrant 12-inch touch display with 10-point touch controls, a thin, and a light keyboard that is backlit. Also, U.S.-based Acer Premier Care is provided to U.S. Acer education and business customers purchasing 100+ units.

Bloomz, Inc
Bloomz App

Bloomz is the mobile parent communication app helping early-childhood through middle-school educators and communities to connect and coordinate with modern day parents in one easy-to-use experience with all the tools they need, supported by a patented approach to building an engaged parent community.

Boxlight
Boxlight Labdisc

For most science teachers, using STEM in the classroom revolves around a box or drawer filled with a tangle of sensor cables and connection boxes. Often, the first 10 minutes or more of a class is spent disentangling these devices and getting them plugged in and working. With Boxlight’s Labdisc, it’s all—inside a small disk. With a diameter of 5.2 inches and a thickness of 1.5 inches, the disc is like a large hockey puck. It’s easy for small hands to carry and use, is rugged and has a pull-out stand in the back. At 11 ounces, a classroom’s worth of sensors can be carried on a tray or cart between rooms. The Boxlight Labdisc also includes unique features like the GPS probe, which harnesses GPS to plot sensor values as a layer over a Google map, and it offers a robust battery that supplies over 150 hours of battery life. This helps students connect and engage with science anywhere. It also serves as an ideal solution for long-term experiments such as plant growth, weather change, and pollution.

bulb
bulb digital portfolios

bulb is where students and educators curate and create, share, and showcase their smarts. bulb helps you gather the best of what you’ve done to make the most of what you know, so you can show the world what you believe. By leveraging the powerful effect of an authentic audience and the synergy of multi-mediated work, bulb encourages students to deepen their learning journeys and share their smarts with the world. For more information, please visit bulbapp.com.

Edthena
Edthena Chromebook app

The Edthena Chromebook app automates the process of recording and uploading videos of any length. With the Edthena platform, teachers share their videos with coaches and colleagues who provide timestamped comments categorized as questions, suggestions, strengths, and notes. The platform enables teachers and coaches to participate in collaborative professional learning cycles. Reports and graphs, linked to the school’s or district’s associated professional standards, help identify teaching trends, determine if the professional development is improving teaching practices, and provide a basis for ongoing dialogue about instructional best practices.

Epson America
Epson BrightLink 697Ui Presentation Displays

The Epson BrightLink 697Ui is one of four new interactive ultra short-throw enhanced presentation displays that enable individualized instruction with wireless content sharing. The displays transform any flat classroom surface into an interactive learning space. Epson’s advanced 3LCD light engine creates bright, vivid images with 4,400 lumens of color brightness and 4,400 lumens of white brightness and its long-life, low-cost lamps last up to 10,000 hours in ECO mode. Whether across campus or in the classroom, students can connect and share any type of content in real-time using the flagship BrightLink 697Ui presentation display. With the Whiteboard Sharing Tool, up to 15 participants can join a whiteboarding session directly from any mobile device with a Web browser or from another BrightLink without a PC.

Ergotron, Inc.
LearnFit Sit-Stand Desk

Transform classrooms into active learning environments with on-demand sit-stand desks. With the simple squeeze of a hand lever, kids can change from sitting to standing. This adjustment capability, along with the desk’s ease of mobility, gives an educator unparalleled flexibility in arranging their classroom for the lesson.

Extron Electronics
StudioStation 100

Extron’s StudioStation100 is a quick, simple, and convenient solution for one-touch recording of high-quality video and audio presentations. To operate the system, simply insert a USB stick and press the record button to begin recording. StudioStation 100 solutions are ideal for flipped classroom recordings, lecture captures, student assessments, rehearsal spaces, moot courts, or any other application where making a recording by pressing only one button is desired.

Extron Electronics
VoiceLift Pro Microphone

The VoiceLift Pro Microphone is designed to evenly distribute the teacher’s voice throughout the classroom, which has been proven to increase student achievement. VoiceLift Pro wireless technology utilizes digital transmission and pairing in a dedicated spectrum to provide superior performance over traditional systems. Benefits include higher sound quality, increased reliability, and greater transmission distance, with reduced interference.

Extron Electronics
PlenumVault Digital Systems

PlenumVault Digital Systems are easy-to-use AV switching and control systems that provide support for common classroom sources at resolutions up to 4K. Standard systems include all the necessary audio and video switching, audio amplification, system control, source connectivity, speakers, mounting hardware, and cabling for a complete classroom AV solution. The unique PlenumVault Mounting Kit securely mounts and conceals system components in the plenum space above a suspended ceiling.

FileWave

Founded in 1992, FileWave provides education, enterprise, and government institutions around the world with multi-platform endpoint management software to assist IT teams throughout the entire lifecycle process of imaging, deployment, management, and maintenance. FileWave’s all-in-one, highly scalable solution solves the many challenges of managing a diverse and growing population of users, devices, and content by ensuring organizations have a comprehensive solution that supports both desktop and mobile devices across macOS, iOS, Windows, Chrome OS, and Android. To learn more, visit https://www.filewave.com.

HUE
HUE HD Pro Camera

The HUE HD Pro classroom camera is the latest addition to the HUE range of USB cameras. This camera can view a full U.S. letter-size sheet and project it onto the whiteboard via your PC and projector. The HUE HD Pro also comes with specially designed software, HUE Intuition, to allow you to master the full functionality of the camera with ease. It’s portable, affordable, and adorable!

itslearning
itslearning

The partnership between itslearning — the award-winning learning management system (LMS) provider — and Gooru — a nonprofit organization that curates, vets, and enriches open educational resources (OERs) — is providing teachers and students an awesome new experience. Now, over 1.7 million resources, 14,000 playlists, and 35+ courses are easily within reach, included as part of the LMS. Each item is tagged with quality metadata, completely searchable, and ready to incorporate into tasks and lessons. Teachers can spend less time searching for content and more time with their students, delivering the highest level of personalized learning.

Lumens Integration, Inc.
DC193 and PC193 Ladibug Document Cameras

Lumens Integration’s new DC193 and PC193 document cameras come in full HD, 1080p, 30fps resolution and 20x zoom capability. Both cameras come with a VGA and HDMI input/output slots. The document cameras have an internal memory for storing up to 240 images and the total memory is expandable to 4TB using a USB drive. The document cameras are applicable for presenting in educational classrooms, training courses, and large and small meeting venues.

Mackin
MackinVIA

MackinVIA is a FREE digital content management system. It was intricately designed by Mackin from the ground up, with the needs of students, teachers, librarians, and administrators in mind. With a single login, users can view, utilize, and manage all of the school’s digital resources. MackinVIA features a PK-12, student-friendly interface and an array of cutting-edge features including Backpacks that provide easy access to checkouts, requests, favorites, and a notebook. The Mackin catalog offers nearly 1.5 million digital resources in a variety of formats including ebooks, digital audiobooks, databases, and videos for use in MackinVIA, and links can be added to preferred websites and videos.

Mentoring Minds
Total Motivation

Total Motivation, Mentoring Minds’ innovative, award-winning, print-and-online supplemental curriculum is used by two million students nationwide. Flexible enough to fit any scope and sequence but rigorous enough to drive instructional design on its own, Total Motivation is designed to help students build critical thinking skills. Total Motivation deeply aligns to state standards and reflects the rigor of high stakes assessments. Online progress monitoring, activity coding, and a wealth of instructional support empower educators to scaffold learning, differentiate instruction, and formatively assess student progress. Total Motivation is available for ELA, Math, and Science. Aligned to the Common Core State Standards, Total Motivation ELA encompasses high-interest literary and information texts with cross-curricular content in social studies and science to develop enthusiastic readers and writers.

Nearpod
Nearpod

Nearpod is a unique mobile learning platform designed for the synchronized use of mobile devices in education. With Nearpod, teachers can create content, engage students digitally, and assess them in real time. Its mission is to significantly improve the quality and cost of education, while transforming and improving the ways in which people learn.

Nepris
Nepris

Nepris is a cloud-based platform and network that connects educators with industry professionals to bring abstract lessons to life, mentor students on class projects, evaluate student work, interview professionals, and join virtual tours of workspaces.

NetSupport, Inc.
NetSupport School

NetSupport School is a leading multi-platform classroom management software solution designed to help educators improve the efficiency and effectiveness of technology-led instruction, thanks to its superior range of PC and device monitoring, assessment features, and collaboration tools. Features include real-time viewing and controlling of student screens, testing and assessment tools, language lab module, Internet and application metering and control, digital journals to record key lesson content, real-time instruction and gamification tools, teacher, t/a and student apps plus integration with OneDrive, and much more.

NetSupport, Inc.
NetSupport DNA

Award-winning IT Asset Management solution, NetSupport DNA, is designed to provide real-time visibility of all school or district IT asset and endpoints by constantly tracking, monitoring, and managing all devices on the network as well as proactively warning of any impending issues. In addition to Hardware & Software Inventory, Software License Management, Software Distribution, Printer Management and full Custom Reporting, NetSupport DNA affords added Student Safeguarding with its standard eSafety module including Internet Metering, Keyword & Phrases Monitoring, and Student Report a Concern features, plus much more.

PowerGistics
Towers by PowerGistics

Towers by PowerGistics has been taking the device storage world by storm. PowerGistics has been working hard to make sure that their quality is unmatched by utilizing a vertical design and positive cable management to help your teachers and staff save time and money! No more time spent untangling cords, replacing broken units, or constantly opening those big bulky padlocks to check if everything is in place.

Renaissance
Renaissance Accelerated Reader 360

Renaissance Accelerated Reader 360 engages K-12 students in independent and close reading practice. Students complete close reading activities built into high-interest nonfiction articles, choose their own independent reading books, and take short reading comprehension quizzes. Reliable student data helps educators set reading goals, monitor progress, and diagnose areas of struggle.

Renaissance
Renaissance Accelerated Math

Renaissance Accelerated Math provides deep math practice at the unique levels students need in order for them to grow—from foundational skills to grade-level standards. Students learn to think critically—like mathematicians—in order to master math. The right amount of productive struggle helps students learn. Then, once students feel confident, they open up to mathematical discourse in the classroom and productive struggle in their practice, to enrich their math experience.

RobotLAB Inc.
Engage! K-12

RobotLAB Introduces Engage! K-12, a revolutionary platform for teaching 21st-century skills using robots. Engage! K-12 offers hands-on learning activities and interactive tools that unlock STEM and coding skills in students of all ages. Engage! K-12 is an interactive and hands-on STEM learning experience organized by eye-catching themes (such as soccer-playing robots or autonomous cars). Students and teachers can access the browser-based learning ecosystem from any device. A user-friendly interface allows teachers, even those with zero programming experience, to bring their lessons to life with virtual and physical robots. Engage! K-12 currently houses a wide variety of lessons focusing on subjects or concepts that students often struggle with. Lessons are searchable by grade level, subject, and CCSS or TEKS standard, and cover topics from coding to STEM to storytelling. Teachers can use RobotLAB’s existing lessons, customize them for their classes, or create their own. Each lesson leads students from idea to construction to application to results.

Securly
Securly

Securly is the industry’s first 100% cloud-based Web filtering solution designed from the ground up for K-12 schools’ 21st-century needs. Securly is designed to provide protection for any device, anywhere, and to completely replace the existing web filter appliance with Securly’s unique Web filtering solution. Being cloud-based allows 24/7 protection for students, with native support for any device, anywhere—onsite or offsite.

Turnitin
Turnitin Revision Assistant

Revision Assistant gives students instant, specific feedback on their writing. Standards-aligned prompts include document-based and open-ended writing assignments covering various genres and essay types. Students request a signal check giving qualitative and visual feedback with a student-friendly visualization of trait-level scores on standards-aligned rubrics (focus, evidence, ideas, and genre). Comments in the margins tie to specific sentences highlighted in the text. Signal check feedback emphasizes areas of strength and offers constructive suggestions for sentence-level improvements.

Vernier Software & Technology
Go Direct Sensors

Vernier Software & Technology’s new Go Direct family of sensors offers teachers and students the versatility to collect scientific data either wirelessly or via a USB connection. The sensors connect directly to Chromebooks, mobile devices, or computers so there’s no interface needed. This gives science and STEM teachers the flexibility to utilize the technology platforms of their choice, or that they already have in their classrooms, in new and innovative ways for scientific exploration with their students. The 16 new sensors, which are designed primarily for chemistry, physical science, and middle-school science, utilize Vernier’s free Graphical Analysis 4 app, which facilitates student understanding with real-time graphing of experimental data. They can also be used as part of more than 100 investigations in Vernier’s fourth edition lab books which will be available in Spring 2017. The Go Direct sensors include the 3-Axis Magnetic Field Sensor, Colorimeter, Conductivity Probe, Constant Current System, Drop Counter, Force and Acceleration Sensor, Gas Pressure Sensor, Light and Color Sensors, Melt Station, Motion Detector, ORP Sensor, pH Sensor, Radiation Monitor, SpectroVis Plus Spectrophotometer, Temperature Probe, and Voltage Probe. To learn more about Go Direct sensors, visit www.vernier.com/products/sensors/go-direct-sensors/.

Voyager Sopris Learning
Velocity

Velocity is a K-5 digital English Language Arts solution for optimized learning that can be implemented alongside any core program to create individualized instruction. Students gain proficiency in critical ELA skills faster and with more 1:1 student-teacher interaction. Velocity optimizes instruction and aids teacher engagement to support students as they learn with content unique to their own pace and level. Functioning as an extension of the teacher’s presence in the classroom, Velocity continuously monitors each student’s understanding of countless subtle learning concepts. This advanced technology instantly adjusts lessons to make them more effective for each individual student, providing actionable insights to the teacher throughout the process.

wePresent
WiPG-2000

This interactive wireless presentation system has advanced features, such as an onboard USB media and document player, a streaming-video player, and a 64-user queue. Classroom collaboration has never been easier; students can work together and show their projects together on the same screen, using their own BYOD device.