Let’s be honest. Homeschooling can be quite a challenge.
Whether you are considering switching to homeschooling or looking for ways to change up your resources to help your kids learn better, keep reading. You are about to discover tools to make this process easier and much more enjoyable.
The decision to homeschool your kids comes with a unique set of commitments and limitations. As a parent-teacher, you may discover numerous benefits in taking responsibility for your children’s education and enjoy spending more time with them. At the same time, however, you may find it quite challenging to tend to your children’s educational and social needs while also rocking parenthood or career.
The good news is that the internet is full of educational resources and tools to help address all your homeschooling needs. While educational technologies for homeschooling have been around long before the pandemic, the demand for digital technologies has increased dramatically over the last couple of years. As a result, parents and teachers now have even a wider choice of digital and online tools for homeschooling.
But where do you start? How do you integrate these tools? How can you bring more structure to your kids’ learning and help them thrive? How can you assess and monitor their progress?
With the plethora of EdTech tools and information, it may seem challenging to find quick and easy answers to these questions. To make things less overwhelming, we have picked some of the most popular resources to consider using in your homeschooling journey.
Help your kids develop a reading habit.
Want your kids to become avid readers, enrich their vocabulary or improve their concentration? Consider integrating eBooks into your curriculum.
There are countless benefits in reading to your children or helping them develop a reading habit. Whether you are reading to your kids, engaging them in a book club, or creating reading assignments, Project Gutenberg eBooks can be your go-to online library. As a non–profit organization, the project provides free access to more than 60,000 titles. You do not need any special apps to read the books and can simply use your browser or download the files for kindle or other e-readers.
Bring in visuals and video lessons.
Kids learn better with visuals. And even better when there’s an element of play involved. No secrets here.
If you are trying to add more fun, visuals, and video to their learning, consider signing up for BrainPop.
BrainPop is an educational platform with video-based resources that makes learning fun through games, animated videos, and reflective assignments to foster curiosity and love for learning. The platform offers engaging content with over 1,100+ topics across K-8 subjects ranging from sciences to arts and engineering. Available for use in the app and the browser, BrainPop assists thousands of teachers and homeschooling parents. With BrainPop Homeschool, you can create lesson plans, monitor your child’s performance to create individualized lessons, and access hundreds of tips and resources for instruction and assessment.
Get free content created by experts.
Khan Academy is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide "a free, world-class education for anyone, anywhere.”
Their content ranges from math, science, and computing to economics, history, art history, and more, including K-14 and test preparation (SAT, LSAT) content. As a parent-teacher, you can access free tools to track and assess performance and deliver individualized instruction.
Need educational content in a language other than English? No worries. Khan Academy content has been translated into multiple languages from Greek and Spanish to Norwegian and Vietnamese.
Liven things up with online classes.
While the idea of homeschooling is to educate your kids in the comfort of your home, it does not mean you cannot bring outside elements into their learning. Live online classes are an excellent way of helping kids improve their social and communicative skills.
If you want to recreate classroom experiences and help your kids socialize while learning with others, Outschool may be the tool for you. The platform offers live online classes suitable for children as young as three.
Create opportunities for socialization.
Socialization difficulties might be one of the disadvantages of homeschooling. This is where a tool such as Primer can come in.
Primer helps create a classroom-like atmosphere and foster social interactions between kids. By joining one or more Primer clubs, kids engage with each other through their love and passion for specific subjects. Primer allows your child to be in their first club for free and pay $10/month to join more. On Primer, children engage in team-based assignments, learn together, and make new friends.
Focus on sparking curiosity
If you’re looking for a free and fun resource to foster your children’s curiosity in creative ways, Wonderopolis may just be the tool for you. It is an award-winning interactive learning website that engages kids with one question every day. As a creative learning space, Wonderopolis allows kids to wonder, ask questions, and tap into real-world learning.
Created by the National Center for Families Learning, Wonderopolis provides resources for Grades K-12, is available for free to parents and teachers, and can become a fun, inspiring resource to incorporate into your lesson plans.
Make science fascinating yet easy.
How can you engage your high schoolers with science content in easy creative ways?
The Fascinating Education may be the answer. It is a science-focused knowledge platform designed to make science easy for high schoolers. By utilizing their background and knowledge in neuroscience regarding “how we learn, how we focus our attention, how we retrieve information, and how emotion and motivation affect learning” Dr. Margulies creates questions and road maps to guide the students’ learning by engaging the “right hemisphere” of the brain.
Conclusion
Now that you have unlocked so many tools to add to your teacher’s arsenal, you can explore them further to make your lessons conducive to learning while saving yourself some time and engaging your kids in fun ways.
Which tools will you be using and how? We’d love to know!
In the past few years, remote work has emerged as more than just a temporary solution; it has become a transformative force reshaping the way we work, communicate, and collaborate. As we continue to navigate this new era, the integration of artificial intelligence into remote work processes promises to further enhance productivity and foster seamless collaboration across distances.
The Shift to Remote Work
Remote work was once viewed with skepticism by many organizations, perceived as a privilege rather than a practical alternative to traditional office-based employment. However, the pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote work models out of necessity, prompting businesses worldwide to rethink their approach to work.
What was initially an emergency response has evolved into a long-term strategy for many companies, driven by the recognition of its benefits. Employees enjoy greater flexibility, reduced commuting stress, and improved work-life balance, while employers benefit from access to a wider talent pool, reduced overhead costs, and increased employee satisfaction and retention.
The Role of AI in Remote Work: Enhancing Productivity
Artificial intelligence, with its ability to analyze vast amounts of data, automate repetitive tasks, and provide valuable insights, has emerged as a game-changer in the realm of remote work. By utilizing AI-powered tools and platforms, organizations can reach new levels of efficiency and productivity, regardless of geographical barriers.
Automating Mundane Tasks
One of the most significant advantages of AI in remote work lies in its capacity to automate mundane and time-consuming tasks. Whether it's scheduling meetings, organizing emails, or generating reports, AI-driven solutions can handle these routine activities, allowing employees to focus on more strategic and creative endeavors.
Personalized Insights and Recommendations
AI-powered analytics tools can analyze user behavior, preferences, and performance metrics to provide personalized insights and recommendations. This capability enables remote workers to make data-driven decisions, optimize their workflows, and enhance their overall productivity.
The Future of Collaboration: Breaking Down Barriers
Effective collaboration lies at the heart of successful remote work environments. While physical distance may pose challenges to traditional modes of collaboration, AI offers innovative solutions to overcome these barriers and foster meaningful connections among team members, such as AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants that facilitate real-time collaboration, streamline information sharing, and bridge possible communication gaps.
Virtual Collaboration Platforms
AI-powered virtual collaboration platforms are revolutionizing the way teams interact and collaborate remotely. These platforms leverage technologies such as machine learning and predictive analytics to facilitate project management and knowledge sharing in virtual environments.
Enhanced Decision-Making
AI algorithms can analyze vast datasets and identify patterns and trends that human decision-makers may overlook. By providing real-time insights and predictive analytics, AI empowers remote teams to make informed decisions quickly and effectively, driving business growth and innovation.
Looking Ahead: Embracing the Potential of AI in Remote Work
As we embrace the future of remote work, the integration of AI into our work will play a pivotal role in driving productivity, fostering collaboration, and unlocking new opportunities for innovation and growth. By leveraging AI-powered tools and platforms, organizations can empower their remote workforce to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and dynamic digital landscape.
In conclusion, the future of remote work holds immense promise, fueled by the transformative potential of AI. By embracing innovation, embracing change, and prioritizing human-centric approaches, we can build a more inclusive, resilient, and productive remote work environment for generations to come.
Nothing pushes you to do something more than a necessity. This is what happened when the pandemic hit, and most of the students were forced to attend classes online. This caused what would normally take decades, just one week to accomplish. Now we have reached closer than ever to the goal of every student having their own laptop or tablet to learn from. In this post, we will go through the pros, the cons, and the potential pitfalls that an educational institute must know.
Before we begin, let us look at some data that was collected by the EdWeek Research Center. In May 2020, it was reported that 59% of the schools questioned had at least one device for every student. It is also reported that 78% of teachers had at least 75% of their students with good enough internet access that it did not hinder their online learning. Two of the most common challenges for schools were that students were distracted by one technology when they used another technology, and that their parents were unable to help them use the technology at home. 53% of the educators were also concerned about the internet connectivity in their student’s homes. It has also been reported by 80% of the educators that when the screen time for students increases, their behavior gets worse.
If you asked a traditionally educated student where they learn, they would say that they learn in the classroom. This might be true for many students, but a school’s primary goal should be to make their students life-long learners. When students say that they learn in the classroom and are incapable of learning outside of the classroom, it uncovers a hole in the education process. What this push towards 1:1 computing does is that it opens the minds of the students to see the internet, or a laptop as a source of information. It shows them that learning is more than just the classroom. The fact that they can learn to turn on their devices and Google a fact is a good start to making them lifelong learners. It will ingrain into them the point that learning just does not stop the minute they leave the classroom or the school.
Many students are not fortunate enough to get to use new devices. So, when they transition into 1:1 learning, they get to use an up-to-date device. This will start the process of technological education for them. This is especially useful because of the fact that the workplace is increasingly becoming technologically advanced. A student that learns how to use various technologies from a young age will become efficient workers of the future.
One of the many disadvantages of using technology to learn is that corporations spend billions of dollars to make those technologies as addictive as possible so that they can make a profit. This is very hard to circumvent even after educating students about the potential addictiveness of technology. This might cause students to spend less time doing physical activities and more time wasted on their screens. This can be easily reversed by having the parents monitor their kids and how much time they spend on the screens but the parents cannot be there 24 hours a day. If you are a parent of a kid with technology, you should install apps that track their screen time and instill into your kids a healthy boundary between the digital world and the real world.
A very big disadvantage when transitioning to online learning is the amount of money required to do so. The Wake County District of North Carolina ended up spending $48 million on new devices. This is fine if you are from a rich district, but many districts will not be able to spend so much money on new devices. Buying all those devices is just the beginning, you need to spend money on training the teachers to effectively use the devices in education, you need to spend money on maintaining the devices, and so many other underlying costs. If the districts skip buying devices for the students and ask them to buy the devices themselves, the households of the students will feel the crunch. When it comes to money, there is no easy way to solve the problem.
Let us move on to the potential pitfalls that an educational institute might fall into when they start the transition. The first one that has been recorded is that when the transition is too fast, the teachers need to adapt quickly. This causes every teacher to use a different software without much research into what type of software it is. The teachers were not informed that the district would be liable if student data was not properly handled. To not fall into this pitfall, the institutions should mandate the use of proper software for every subject. This might mean buying licenses or subscribing to a service. Google Education is a great start for educational technologies.
Another pitfall that an educational institute might fall into is the hardware constraints they might face. When every single student has a device, there will be hundreds of devices that need to be connected to the network. This might mean hiring more technology staff to make sure that everything runs smoothly and buying better network hardware. If the institute decides on a permanent 1:1 learning strategy, they also need to make sure that their access points are capable of handling the huge influx of wireless devices.
In conclusion, introducing technology into the world of education is seen as both a positive thing, as well as a bad thing. Right now, there is no definitive proof that it is entirely positive, or that it is entirely bad. It is good when students get to learn how to use newer technologies, and the students understand that learning is much more than just sitting and listening in the classroom. It can be bad because the profits of the companies making the software for the devices depend on the attention of their users. It is also important for an institution to educate their teachers about the laws on handling student data, and the negatives of free software available on the internet when it comes to data handling. If institutes decide on going full-time with 1:1 computing, then they should also be prepared to upgrade their hardware and their networking.
In the age of technological advancement, the integration of Artificial Intelligence into various industries has been nothing short of revolutionary. Among the sectors experiencing significant transformation, manufacturing stands out as a recipient of AI-driven solutions. The combination of AI and manufacturing processes has not only streamlined operations but has also paved the way for unprecedented efficiency, precision, and innovation.
The Evolution of Manufacturing with AI
Traditional manufacturing processes often relied on manual labor and basic automation. However, the emergence of AI has ushered in a new era of intelligent manufacturing. AI systems, powered by advanced algorithms and machine learning capabilities, enable manufacturers to optimize production processes, enhance product quality, and respond swiftly to dynamic market demands.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency
One of the primary advantages of AI in manufacturing lies in its ability to optimize operational efficiency. AI-powered predictive maintenance systems utilize data analytics and machine learning algorithms to anticipate equipment failures before they occur. By analyzing historical performance data and identifying patterns, these systems can schedule maintenance activities proactively, minimizing downtime and reducing maintenance costs.
AI-driven supply chain management solutions enable manufacturers to optimize inventory levels, streamline logistics, and minimize supply chain disruptions. By analyzing large volumes of data in real-time, AI algorithms can identify potential obstructions, predict demand fluctuations, and optimize production schedules accordingly, ensuring timely delivery of goods to customers.
Precision and Quality Control
Incorporating AI into manufacturing processes has revolutionized quality control procedures. AI-powered computer vision systems can inspect products with great accuracy and speed, detecting defects that may be missed by human eyes. These systems analyze visual data captured by cameras and sensors, comparing it against predefined quality standards to identify deviations or anomalies. By automating the inspection process, manufacturers can significantly reduce the risk of defective products reaching the market, in turn enhancing customer satisfaction and brand reputation.
Empowering Innovation
AI empowers manufacturers to unlock new realms of innovation and product development. Generative design algorithms use AI to explore vast design possibilities and generate optimal product configurations based on specified parameters and constraints. By harnessing the power of AI-driven simulations and optimization techniques, manufacturers can accelerate the design process, reduce prototyping costs, and develop innovative products that meet evolving customer needs.
AI-enabled collaborative robots are revolutionizing the way humans and machines interact on the factory floor. These robots, equipped with advanced sensors and AI algorithms, can work alongside human operators safely and efficiently, performing tasks that require precision, dexterity, and repeatability. By automating repetitive and labor-intensive tasks, they free up human workers to focus on more value-added activities, fostering a more productive and collaborative work environment.
The Future of AI in Manufacturing
As AI technologies continue to evolve, the future of manufacturing holds boundless possibilities, ushering in an era of interconnected and intelligent manufacturing ecosystems.
Looking ahead, AI will play a pivotal role in enabling autonomous manufacturing systems that can adapt and learn from their environment in real-time. From self-optimizing production lines to AI-driven product customization, the potential applications of AI in manufacturing are limitless.
In conclusion, the integration of AI into manufacturing processes represents a transformative leap forward, empowering manufacturers to achieve unprecedented levels of efficiency, precision, and innovation. As AI technologies continue to mature and evolve, sustainability will increase as well as competitive advantage in the global marketplace.
In recent years, the world of higher education has witnessed a remarkable transformation with the emergence of esports. With its growing popularity over the years among teens and young adults, esports has now found its place within the halls of universities and colleges worldwide. With purpose-built environments and innovative programs, institutions are recognizing the potential of esports to foster community, drive academic engagement, and prepare students for the digital landscape of the future. This year, the trajectory of esports in higher education continues to expand, promising exciting trends and opportunities on the horizon.
Creating Environments for Growth
The cornerstone of the esports movement in higher education lies in the creation of dedicated environments tailored to the unique needs of competitive gaming. Gone are the days of makeshift setups in dorm rooms; instead, universities are investing in state-of-the-art gaming facilities equipped with high-end hardware, immersive displays, and ergonomic seating. These areas serve as focal points for student engagement, providing a space where gamers can come together to compete, collaborate, and connect.
Moreover, these environments extend beyond just gaming hubs; they serve as versatile spaces where students from diverse backgrounds converge. Esports programs often integrate elements of STEM education, business management, and marketing, offering a comprehensive learning experience that goes beyond traditional boundaries. By embracing the multifaceted nature of esports, universities are preparing students for careers in popular fields such as game design, esports management, and digital media.
The Positive Impacts of Esports
The integration of esports into higher education brings forth many positive impacts, both academically and socially. One of the most notable benefits is the promotion of teamwork and communication skills. In competitive gaming, success relies not only on individual skill but also on effective collaboration and coordination with teammates. As students participate in esports leagues and tournaments, they develop vital communication skills that are highly sought after in today's job market.
Additionally, esports serves as a way to build community and inclusivity on campus. Regardless of background, gender, or physical ability, students can find a sense of belonging within the esports ecosystem. Through shared passion, barriers are broken down, and lasting friendships are forged. Esports transcends geographical boundaries, allowing students to connect with peers from across the globe, fostering a sense of global citizenship and cultural exchange.
Growth and Trends in 2024
In 2024, the growth trajectory of esports in higher education shows no signs of slowing down. Certain institutions are expanding their esports offerings, launching new degree programs, and establishing scholarship opportunities for aspiring gamers. Esports infrastructure continues to evolve, with investments in advanced technologies such as virtual reality and augmented reality tech to enhance the gaming experience.
The rise of mobile gaming is reshaping the landscape of collegiate esports as well. With the expansion of smartphones and tablets, students now have access to gaming experiences anytime, anywhere. Universities are leveraging this trend by developing mobile gaming leagues and integrating mobile-friendly titles into their esports curriculum.
Additionally, there is increasing attention on regulating esports. As esports grows, people are looking closely at things like player well-being, fair competition, and avoiding cheating. In response, authorities and those involved in the industry are creating rules and practices to make sure esports stays fair and sustainable.
In conclusion, the rise of esports in higher education represents a paradigm shift in the way we approach student engagement and learning. By fostering inclusive environments, promoting collaboration, and embracing emerging technologies, universities are empowering the next generation of digital natives to thrive in an increasingly competitive and interconnected world. As we embark on the journey ahead, the future of esports in higher education shines bright with promise and potential.
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ELA teachers face the enormous challenge of growing young writers within an extremely tight time frame—just one school year. Like the writing process itself, teaching writing is messy, non-linear, and time-consuming. Both novice and experienced teachers, though well-intentioned, often remain superficial in their writing instruction methods given the constraints of curriculum and other systemic factors. Inadequate time to provide feedback is most often cited as the culprit. Additionally, many ELA teachers find assessing writing continuously challenging.
Over the years, technology in the classroom has evolved to better support ELA teachers in developing their students’ writing abilities. Students today are certainly better equipped with digital tools, sites, and apps that assist with their writing needs. Despite this, many ELA classrooms today are still not tapping into the potential of technology to enrich writing instruction and embed teacher feedback seamlessly into the process.
So, how can ELA teachers leverage technology to more effectively grow writers?
Above all else, stay rooted in pedagogy and best instructional practices. Avoid using technology just for the sake of using technology. NCTE believes that “New technologies should be considered only when it is clear how they can enhance, expand, and/or deepen engaging and sound practices related to literacies instruction.” Design the lesson around the literacy goal and then choose the technology tool to further engage students.
Consider how tech tools can support the writing process. There’s assigning writing and then there’s teaching writing. Teaching writing requires heavy modeling and guiding students through all steps of the writing process: brainstorming, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing—and not necessarily in that order.
Utilizing technology during the brainstorming phase can excite students, building energy to transfer into drafting. During a personal essay brainstorm, teachers may ask students to curate a collage of pictures on Padlet of people and places of significance to them. When generating ideas for a research presentation, students can record a 30-second pitch on Flipgrid. Classmates and the teacher can comment on the ideas and spark some momentum for the writer.
Drafting in Google Docs allows students to share assignments with the teacher for quick formative checks and feedback. Additionally, they can share drafts with their peers during various points in the process. With teacher guidance, they can collaborate to improve their pieces, inching it toward the finish line with more autonomy.
Revision history in Google Docs serves as a powerful tool in making growth visible to students and the teacher. During a writing conference, a teacher may restore previous versions of the draft in an effort to focus on how the writing has evolved as a result of certain acquisition lessons. For instance, the student writer can more clearly see how active, unusual verbs invigorated the essay. As a bonus, it instills a growth mindset and creates a classroom culture where resilience and hard work is valued.
Personalize writing instruction with recording technology. After a rough draft is due, teachers can harness recording tools to streamline feedback, ultimately saving time and personalizing the learning. Mote, a Chrome extension, allows teachers to quickly record audio feedback right within Google Docs. Teachers may also opt to use screen recording technology like Screencastify or Loom where they’re able to point to specific problem paragraphs or model rewriting a sentence or two. Undoubtedly, these tools have changed the feedback game.
Technology enables ELA teachers to work smarter, not harder. Most veteran ELA teachers have accepted the long hours of grading required of the job. Though, with the help of novice teachers entering the field, many are beginning to grasp how technology can quicken their pace while benefiting students.
The most valuable feedback for developing writers comes during the brainstorming and drafting phases of writing, not at the end. By then, it’s too late. Students who receive snippets of feedback along the way are much more likely to engage in producing high-quality work. An encouraging comment on a brainstorm Padlet, a link to a website on semicolon use, or a 2-minute screencast that asks some focused questions can all enrich a student’s writing experience.
Gradually as teachers gain experience through the years, they can craft and store these comments and resources to use for future classes. Standards-based rubric generators like ThemeSpark are a great place to build language for comment banks.
Along the way, students will begin to see the value of continually revisiting their writing, tweaking, utilizing sources provided by the instructor, and tweaking some more. The classroom culture embraces the messy process that yields the best results—writing that students are proud to share.
Publishing with technology empowers young writers. The beauty of a connected world is that it creates endless outlets for students to share their work. No longer are the days where students solely write for their teacher. Whether it be posting a poem on their social media feed or sharing a link on Google Classroom for a cross-class virtual gallery walk, authentic audiences for their hard work inherently expand.
Encouraging students to publish their work with the wider world increases their confidence and motivation to write even more. Sites like Write the World provide students a community of young writers seeking feedback from both peers and expert creative writers. It honors that writing is social and that inspiration can stem from collaboration.
A litany of middle and high school online literary magazines like TeenInk or Polyphony Lit offer similar outlets to encourage the next generation of writers. Overall, providing these publishing outlets for students to share their work ups the stakes and reminds students of authentic purposes for writing beyond simply earning a grade.
The world has a shortage of dynamic and creative writers across all fields. It’s imperative that ELA teachers today prepare students for the rigorous writing challenges that they’ll certainly face in college and the workplace. Fortunately, technology can greatly enhance writing instruction in the ELA classroom and afford teachers more time to provide feedback and personalize learning.
Living in the 21st Century, the term ‘’STEM/STEAM’’ is no longer unfamiliar. Now, most individuals know STEM involves skills that will take students to the next level of learning and problem-solving. It brings attention to strengthening the basic skills that can groom an individual and prepare them to manage real-life problems (without panic!). While some educators propose the idea of dedicated time slots for STEM activities, I disagree with them. Because the purpose of integrating STEM becomes meaningless if we still treat it as a separate entity; rather, it should be a foundation for everyday lesson planning and class activities! For that, the role of the teacher becomes most significant as a moderator to direct the student’s energies and strengths to achieve a collective goal. So, teachers, are you ready?
To highlight the major focus of STEM integration into the classroom, Dare and colleagues (2021) quoted the idea of the 4 C’s- Critical thinking, Creativity, Communication, and Collaboration- as the skills which support student empowerment. Integration of STEM in the classroom stimulates problem-solving, identifying alternatives to a common problem, reaching out, and working in a team to achieve a common goal utilizing the applied skills of the 4 C’s. Making sure that the students absorb these skills can be achieved through effective lesson planning, which can switch between experiential learning to vicarious learning (learning from observing other individuals’ learning experiences) or situated learning.
Tips and Tricks to Dissolve STEM into your Classroom
While you are teaching students, no matter whether it’s science, languages, or mathematics, pause once you are done with the day’s topic and think about how you can present a topic-relevant problem to the students. Students will engage in the process of problem-solving and work to resolve the problem. This involvement will give students an opportunity to use their STEM skills.
Try to incorporate as much STEM vocabulary as you can during your class. For example, you can use words like model, experiment, test, and build in everyday classes to make the kids familiar with the terms.
Even if you are teaching languages, you can still integrate STEM. Curious to know how? Here it is! Let’s say you are teaching ESL, and there’s a story kids are reading. In the end, you can ask the students to identify the problem that the antagonist faced and how the problem was resolved. In this way, students will become familiar with the problem-solving process.
You must be thinking that you already got a lot on your plate while teaching your students, so why this extra stuff? Yeah, we feel you! But if you are planning to integrate STEM into your curriculum, the first thing you need to do is change your perspective on STEM. STEM is not the “extra.” STEM is not separate or disconnected from what you are teaching, but rather it gives you a way to enrich your classroom learning experience for the kids to be meaningful as you present a real-world connection for each topic they study. So, try to utilize the benefits of STEM more in your classrooms, and then see how excited your students will be to engage in your lessons! Yeah, it sounds impossible, but it is doable! Try it!
So, let’s get back to the facts!
For STEM, there are no hard and fast rules. Students can work in teams, groups, or even individually and it will help them come up with innovative ways to solve a certain problem and view different perspectives and decide collectively on one solution to go with. STEM also supports developing an inclusive and well-connected classroom. This kind of supportive environment also helps in catering to student’s learning needs in a more collaborative manner.
How can you incorporate STEM? Here are a few example techniques and activities:
Conclusion
STEM integration in the classroom empowers students’ development on multiple levels, supporting them to learn individually and equipping them to work in a community with different people, sources, resources, and multiple pathways to reach a goal that benefits all! It does not bind but rather broadens the horizons of reasoning, logic, creativity, innovation, and teamwork. Teachers are influential in students’ growth and development and support the rich learning experiences for their students as they develop and integrate rigorous STEM integrated lesson plans.
Learning management systems are a trending topic with the advent of online learning. But you may be wondering how they work and how they can benefit your classroom or enhance your existing curriculum. In this post, we’ll delve deep into what LMSs are and how they could be useful for your learning environment. Let’s get started!
Popularized in higher education, and now making their way to K-12, learning management systems provide institutions a digital space to do everything from documenting and tracking to providing online education and training to teachers. Often abbreviated simply as an LMS, learning management systems for schools utilize software to deliver classes, lessons, or training programs completely online.
A learning management system (LMS) is a software application used to manage, document, track, report, automate, and deliver education courses, training programs, or training and development programs. A Learning Management System (LMS) is a web-based integrated software used to create, deliver, track, and report on education courses and outcomes.
A learning management system (LMS) is a platform that helps instructors to manage and organize educational materials on the web, as well as run online courses. A learning management system is a software program used as a single point of reference to create, track, deliver, and store education materials, courses, and outcomes.
Both businesses and educators can use a learning content management system (LCMS) to organize and produce content for training or educational purposes. Through an LMS, instructors can create and integrate course materials, define learning goals, align content and assessments, monitor study progress, and create customized tests for students.
LMSs are designed to keep all the materials teachers need and use on a day-to-day basis so that students and teachers alike can teach and do their jobs smoothly. LMS helps in total control over teaching schedules and materials, thereby saving both time and money.
Education LMSs may enable teachers to conduct synchronous courses with 5, 30, or more students, balancing the interaction between students and teachers within a virtual classroom. These online learning systems provide user-friendly UIs that help children as young as 3 years old engage with classes, along with nontraditional students who might not have as much experience with remote learning.
I chose the term online learning platforms tactically to cover both instructional LMSs, but also tools and learning platforms that may complement those systems, or act as minimal alternatives. As mentioned above, all LMSs share the same purpose of making teaching and learning available online, however, the resources that each platform provides can differ.
LMS platforms are not solely focused on digital learning, they also handle both in-person and offline teaching. Although LMSs may appear designed solely to support distance learning, many industries have caught onto the vast benefits in remote communication, collaboration, and organization that come with using an LMS, and they are integrating it into their standard practices.
The difference is that learning management systems are now not just a bonus tool to enable teachers and students to communicate at the virtual level, but are an integral part of any effective mixed-media or remote-learning classroom environment. These systems enable shared learning, cooperative problem solving, and continuous team-building experiences for both educators and students.
Such systems, in addition to facilitating online teaching, tracking teaching progress, providing digital teaching tools, managing communications, and possibly selling content, can be used to enable various features of collaboration. LMSs for schools assist teachers and administrators in automating processes like creating and managing assignments, creating tests and quizzes, and marking students' online work.
LMS helps schools keep their education programs intact, by enabling educators to develop courses efficiently and efficiently, conduct instruction, foster communication, promote collaboration among students, evaluate student success, and provide other instructional resources to support.
Some of the popular LMSs used by education institutions include Moodle, Blackboard Learn, and Schoology. Corporate LMSs used for online training of employees can also be called learning management systems, or eLearning/eLearning portals. Education LMSs offer access to a variety of tools and services such as content resources, assessment tools, assessment tools, analytics, reporting, and administrative capabilities located both inside and outside the organization.
One of the most well-known LMS options is Blackboard. It is mostly employed in post-secondary institutions and K-12 schools, although its use is far broader. Because it is a cloud-based LMS, it may be employed in a classroom environment by students of all ages on a variety of devices including PCs, mobile phones, and tablets. Another advantage is that it may be used as a mobile communication tool to keep parents informed about their children's school progress. This is a great tool that you should give a go!
Schoology is a 2009 cloud-based learning management system. It may surprise you to learn that it was invented by three of the University of Washington in St. Louis undergraduate students. It started as a note-taking and sharing tool, but as time passed, it evolved into a completely operational LMS.
Schoology is now more comprehensive, including resource folders, communication programs, and tracking tools for K-12 classes. Students, professors, and parents can all use their accounts for free. However, if your institution wishes to integrate data from the platform into other programs, you'll need to pay for a license.
Another cloud-based LMS is Google Classroom, which allows professors to generate assignments, announcements, and even formative questions for students to respond to. Teachers may use the platform to keep track of how students are doing on their projects and offer real-time feedback to students while they are online.
It's also worth noting that, unlike the majority of LMS platforms, Google Classroom is now free for all schools. As a result, this option is perfect for schools that wish to conserve money while still incorporating LMS into their curricula.
For more options to choose from check out this great article.
In this article, we looked at the advantages of adopting a learning management system in your classroom and how it may help students learn more effectively. We have supplied you with some ideas that will help you get started if you want to try some of these systems out.
We are certain that adopting a learning management system (LMS) will make your life as a teacher simpler and will help you stay organized and in touch with your students, parents, and administrators. If you have any queries, please post them in the comments section below. We look forward to hearing from you!
If there is one effective way of bridging the distance between language learners sitting in a classroom and real-world practice of the language without even traveling a mile–it is technology.
Apps, digital tools, online platforms, and other instructional technologies have forever changed how we learn and teach world languages.
So, if you are reluctant about using online tools in your language classroom or get overwhelmed by them, I invite you to reconsider. We can make technology serve us in simple ways and enrich the learning process for everyone involved. Numerous studies speak to the benefits of technology in language learning both for students and educators.
Joe Dale, a language consultant and technology expert in the UK, emphasizes that we can use technology to enhance language learning. And what’s a better way to do it than have students put their skills into practice in authentic and real-world learning environments?
Here are a few educational technologies to include in your language courses and enhance authentic learning for students.
Live Conversations
Live conversation platforms such as LinguaMeeting and TalkAbroad allow students to practice their speaking skills with language coaches from selected countries. Could it get more authentic? You can opt for one-on-one or group conversations, pick the required number of video chats, provide guidelines for the language coach, see the recordings, provide feedback and enjoy many other features. These platforms are excellent spaces outside the class where students can freely engage in authentic language practice.
A great benefit of these platforms is that they can help improve students’ confidence before traveling abroad or even serve as a replacement for studying abroad for those who have travel limitations. In addition, these conversations will expose students to diverse accents and language variations depending on the origin of their coaches.
Touring the World with Google
Google Tour Creator allows teachers and students to create virtual tours worldwide by including 360° Photos, adding historical sites and popular points of interest, and overlaying the selected places with detailed images. In addition, students can listen to information about the included historical sites through audio narration in the target language.
You can easily share the created tour as a link or embed it on a website. It can be a great idea to have students share the tours as oral presentations and invite the entire class on virtual travel in the target language.
Video Blogging with Flipgrid
Flipgrid is a platform for sharing short videos. You can see it as your class blog or social network. Create specific assignments or questions and have students respond to them by recording a video in the target language. Flipgrid allows students to post video messages or comments on their classmates’ videos, which helps promote conversational language practice.
Make the assignments authentic and relatable to the students. For instance, you may ask your intermediate Italian class to share what they did over the weekend by practicing the past tense. Some students take the time to get creative and have fun on Flipgrid.
Language Learning through Songs
Have you ever had a foreign language song stuck in your head without understanding most of the lyrics? Music makes a language more memorable. For this reason, I enjoy incorporating songs into my teaching. Whether it is to have students fill in the gaps while listening to the song, sing along or do any other creative activity, we can now do this with an app to save the preparation hassle and paper.
Lyrics Training and Lirica are like karaoke apps for language learning. Plus, students may choose to do this on their own time as they continue discovering more songs and improving their language competence.
Engaging with Online Video and Audio Content
Digital content has become omnipresent. Many of us watch YouTube videos and listen to podcasts regularly. Incorporating such content in the target language into our teaching can increase engagement with authentic cultural materials and conversational language. For instance, YouTube vlogs can provide extra input when covering vocabulary or cultural information for a specific country. If you are teaching the vocabulary of camping or introducing cultural information about Peru, you may consider including travel vlogs. For example, you may ask your students to find a travel vlog about hiking in Machu Picchu and share their thoughts in written or oral form while practicing the assigned vocabulary.
Ask students to leave a comment or question on the vlog after they have watched it. Such activities contribute to the authenticity of interactions in the target language and inspire students to learn more about the culture by traveling there.
Voice Recordings
Vocaroo is an easy-to-use online voice recorder that teachers and students can use for creative activities such as podcasting and storytelling. The tool allows you to record, download, share or embed the link of the recording in your Learning Management System.
Students can create podcasts on a chosen topic and share them on a class blog, while teachers can use the tool to record brief audio lectures or provide audio feedback on student work.
As Joe Dale suggests in this podcast, we can incorporate technology as an alternative to more traditional aspects of teaching. For instance, you can replace written feedback with audio comments to make this process more personalized and intimate for your students.
Conclusion
Can we take the edge off the challenge of learning a new language by engaging students with tools and devices that are part of their daily activities? Absolutely.
Educational technologies are our best bet in ensuring that students have easy and quick access to authentic, real-world materials when learning a foreign language.
When a student has an authentic conversation with a native speaker via video chat, just as they would do with a friend, communication becomes the primary goal. Isn’t that what we strive for in our world language classrooms?
Traditional doctrine in the educational system is to create good computer programmers by teaching traditional computer science and first making students computer scientists, which is not really needed to learn how to code and make good computer programmers. Usually, a part of that method involves burdening students with difficult advanced math requirements not usually included in standard K-12 curricula.
Most standard math classes will not help prepare students to learn to code. This obligates teachers planning to teach students to code in a traditional computer programming course to teach the math and logical concepts required by computer programmers first. These include binary and bitwise operations, hexadecimal (also known as hex code) and octal, which only uses 0 through 7, for a base 8 system.
Standard math courses also don’t teach students to start counting from 0 up to 9 in our standard system of counting and decimal system. However, they really should if they want more students to understand how to program a computer. To this end, understanding the concepts taught in math is actually far more important than learning to quickly and accurately calculate the correct answers to math problems with your own human brain in the approved way. The ability to pass through the filter of high pressure math exams without even a calculator does not really help make anyone a good computer programmer. Nor does anyone learn how to code any better in this standard educational system.
Of course, the problem solving skills and logic taught in math can still be very important, particularly those learned in algebra and calculus. Of those, kids are smarter than they are given credit for, so a little algebra is recommended and can make a big difference in a class on computer programming or coding.
It is important to remember that real, professional computer programming is pretty much always open notes. You can even search for answers online, and the computer in front of you is actually a very good, very fancy calculator. So while as it still really helps to know how to do math, it really isn’t the most important part of learning computer programming.
Fortunately, you don’t have to be a full computer scientist to be a computer programmer or learn to code. That makes those advanced math requirements not really the most appropriate or useful to students who are just looking to learn how to code. Nor is it really necessary to become, for example, an open source software developer, a Linux systems administrator or a web master.
In times past, because we either didn’t have better or “better” was too expensive, young children were put in front of a command line with little more than a blinking cursor for a command prompt. They were taught things like BASIC and how to use an interactive shell, and to use things like MS DOS. The first program taught in any language was “Hello World”. In BASIC, that is the classic two lines:
10 PRINT “HELLO WORLD”
20 GOTO 10
The old BASIC was and is a very good introductory programming language, because it is mostly a scripted programming language and naturally open source. That means that teachers can have a much easier time seeing and understanding students’ BASIC programs. It was also easy to learn by modifying pre-existing programs that were found published in textbooks and other books, the manuals that came with microcomputers, magazines and other sources.
Somewhere along the way in the last few decades, a sort of irrational aversion to or fear of the command line interface developed. This increased as computers and devices became more graphical and easier to use, with important parts either locked away with admin passwords or hidden entirely by tech companies looking to protect their intellectual property. All of this happened at the cost of consumers. It has become a roadblock to having a better educated and knowledgeable society of computer programmers, IT professionals, network engineers, data scientists, software engineers, technicians, hackers and makers.
This phenomenon of abstracting away and concealing the more difficult and technical parts of computer software has still proven sometimes beneficial in certain areas of education--specifically, teaching young students computer programming. Young students can now bypass learning both difficult math requirements and even writing computer code by learning a programming language and typing. It is possible to get straight into creating and learning important concepts by using programs such as Scratch.
Scratch is a kind of an IDE, that is to say in this context an Integrated Development Environment and Scratch is very good for creating animations and video games. Scratch is now up to Version 3.0, and all versions do not really require an expensive or powerful computer. The Scratch programming language has pretty much all of the actual computer code completely abstracted away and hidden behind simple “code blocks” that fit together a little like colorful puzzle pieces on the screen.
What’s nice about that is that just as it is more important to understand certain math concepts than it is to accurately calculate the correct answer to simple math problems to learn to code, it is actually more important to understand concepts used in computer programming across various programming languages than it is to learn any one particular programming language. Thus, while all the code may be hidden away and simplified, Scratch is still very useful as an educational tool to teach young students how to code.
Consider the reality that whatever programming language, IDE or platform you or your school chooses and no matter how excellent your course, it will likely all become as obsolete as the old BASIC programs very quickly. However, students can still gain a lot from a coding course based around Scratch or a similar program that still teaches the important concepts.
There are concepts that won’t ever be obsolete that are used in computer programming, no matter the computer language or code used. It is far more important to teach those concepts, which apply regardless of the programming language or platform and thus lessons will remain applicable in the future.
In addition, things like animations and video games take a lot more than just programming skills to make. There is also the graphics, all the sound effects and any music, which is also a lot to cram into an already technical and complicated curriculum. To address this, Scratch provides a lot of sprites to move around, a lot of pre-existing art and sounds that you and your students are encouraged to use. There’s also a lot of example projects, and they are all easy to modify. That all makes Scratch fun and satisfying to learn with, which keeps students engaged and learning.
A great majority of educational researchers’ time and energy is devoted to pinpointing the most effective methods of teaching and learning, with priority being given to the latter. In turn, it is of no surprise that researchers have devoted, and continue to devote, time and energy to identifying aspects of the physical environment of classrooms that enhance effective teaching and learning. The problem, however, is that those in the field of education (i.e. teachers, administrators, school boards, school building designers) often are not aware of how aspects of a school’s physical environment affect student learning. Following this line of thinking, the purpose of this research post is (1) to identify the factors of the physical environment that have been shown via educational research to influence classroom learning (either negatively or positively) and (2) to identify what findings regarding the physical environment’s effect on learning would be useful to teachers, administrators, school boards and school designers. Once these factors and findings are identified, they can be examined more deeply to determine which should be prioritized for the greatest effect on student learning. Recommendations for such prioritization are provided based on the conclusions of this research.
A comprehensive review of the available educational literature and research identified the following physical factors that influence classroom learning: Air quality, temperature, technology, lighting, noise, ceilings, displays, color, furniture, and desk arrangement.
Where school air quality is concerned common sense and educational research agree that poor air quality results in decreased health of the student population, which logically leads to other issues (such as absenteeism due to sickness)(Woolner et al., 2007; Earthman, 2004). In order for students to operate at peak performance they must be healthy, and clean air is paramount to that. In turn, a well maintained ventilation system is seen as key to a healthy school (Khattar, 2003; Kimmel, 2000). School building designers and the school district boards they serve need to understand the importance of clean air and a high quality, well maintained ventilation system in school buildings. The design and funding of a proper ventilation system lies with these two parties.
While it is generally agreed that a warm environment is most comfortable for most individuals in classroom settings (Burke & Burke-Samide, 2004), it is unclear what exact temperature (i.e., a specific Fahrenheit or Celsius reading) is best for optimal classroom learning. The issue is that each students have their own ideal temperatures and Burke & Burke-Samide (2004) point out that classroom temperatures deviating only slightly from a student’s preference can affect student learning negatively.
Knowledge of the ideal temperature for classroom learning would best benefit district school boards and their administrations, as the standard building temperatures are often set and maintained by the central district administration offices. Building administrators would make best use of this information by making immediate requests for adjustments to building and room temperatures when necessary. In scenarios where building administrators and teachers have the ability to control individual room temperatures, the value of this information would clearly increase for those individuals.
Although technology may not be typically be viewed as a factor of a classroom’s physical environment, Lippman’s (2010) research recommends it be seen otherwise. While technology has become an integral part of students’ everyday lives, and has become as important to student learning as other factors of the physical environment (e.g., seating arrangements), classrooms have not been modified accordingly. In fact, Lippman’s assertion, which is supported by Weiss (2007), is that technology is often integrated into the modern classroom without considering underlying pedagogy. An example of this has been district installations of Smart boards in all classrooms without consideration of how specific teachers of specific courses will utilize the boards according to their pedagogical backgrounds. Though the improper integration of technology in the classroom may not directly negatively affect student learning, it certainly does not improve student learning and misuses district funds in the process. The highly positive effects of an appropriately technology-integrated classroom, however, are detailed in Brooks’ (2010) study that resulted in the technology-integrated classroom’s biology education students outperforming their traditional classroom counterparts (Brooks, 2010). Information regarding the design of classrooms that properly integrate technology is useful to several groups within the education system. School designers, who often design the classrooms themselves, would be wise to understand the ideal design for a technology-based classroom if a school district board and its technology department decide to invest in technology integrated classrooms. District and building administrators would make use of this information for the purposes of scheduling and other decisions in which specific courses and teachers would be assigned to the classrooms equipped with technology. District technology departments in this scenario would also make use of such knowledge to understand how to support technology driven classrooms once the designers have moved on. This would be a key element in supporting the teachers, who—although they should be trained on how to effectively use the classrooms—would no doubt benefit from expert support.
Are you enjoying Part 1 of this series? If so, we encourage you to keep reading in [Part 2].
Part 1 References:
Earthman, G. I. (2004) Prioritization of 31 criteria for school building adequacy.
Woodland Park, NJ – February 14, 2024 - The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the way we work, blurring the lines between our personal and professional lives like never before. As organizations adapt to new norms, the mental health of working individuals has emerged as a critical concern. With the rise of remote work and hybrid work models, maintaining well-being in the workplace has become a difficult issue to tackle for many.
The Impact of Working from Home
Working from home has been a double-edged sword for many people. On one hand, the flexibility and autonomy it offers can enhance work-life balance and productivity. On the other hand, the lack of separation between work and home life can lead to burnout and isolation.
The absence of physical interaction with colleagues and the loss of a structured routine have contributed to feelings of loneliness and disconnection for some. Moreover, the constant presence of digital devices and the blurring of work hours can increase stress and anxiety, making it challenging for individuals to switch off and unwind.
Hybrid Work and Finding Balance
As organizations transition to hybrid work models, new challenges and opportunities arise. Hybrid work promises the best of both worlds, combining the flexibility of remote work with the benefits of face-to-face interaction and collaboration in the office.
However, navigating hybrid work arrangements requires careful planning and adaptation. Employees may find themselves grappling with conflicting expectations, trying to balance their time between home and office, and managing the logistical challenges of commuting and scheduling.
Addressing Mental Health Concerns
In the face of these challenges, it is crucial for employers to prioritize mental health support and foster a culture of well-being in the workplace. This entails providing resources and tools for employees to manage stress, setting clear boundaries around work hours and communication, and encouraging open dialogue about mental health issues.
Regular check-ins, flexible scheduling, and access to mental health resources can go a long way in supporting employees’ well-being and preventing burnout. Employers can also promote mindfulness practices, encourage breaks, and create opportunities for social connection and team bonding, both online and offline.
Individuals, too, play a pivotal role in safeguarding their mental health amidst the changing landscape of work. Setting boundaries, establishing a dedicated workspace, and prioritizing self-care are essential practices for maintaining balance and resilience in this new age of working.
The post-pandemic era has ushered in a new era of work, characterized by flexibility, adaptability, and resilience. As we navigate the complexities of remote work and hybrid work arrangements, it is important that we prioritize mental health and well-being every step of the way.
By fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, equipping employees with the resources they need to thrive, we can create environments where individuals can flourish both personally and professionally in the new normal. Together, we can build a future where mental health is not just a priority, but a fundamental aspect of how we work, live, and thrive.
About FSR
FSR, established in 1981, manufactures a wide variety of signal management and infrastructure solutions for the AV/IT, Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), corporate, education, hospitality, government, and religious markets, including floor, wall, table, and ceiling connectivity boxes and wireways, as well as a full line of interfaces, distribution amplifiers, matrix switchers, seamless scaling switchers, and HDBaseT signal delivery solutions. FSR offers live, 24/7 technical and sales support nationwide from expertly trained technicians and sales representatives. The Company is also an HDBaseT Alliance Adopter Member. For more information: www.fsrinc.com.
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FSR / Press Contact: Donnell Johnson
973-998-2310 • This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Woodland Park, NJ – February 5, 2024 - In the ever-evolving world of corporate environments, the landscape of office spaces has undergone significant transformations, led by technological advancements, changing work cultures, and the demands for enhanced efficiency and flexibility. As we step into 2024, corporate offices are evolving with a blend of challenges, emerging trends, and innovative solutions aimed at reshaping the way we work.
Current Pain Points in Corporate Offices
1. Flexibility and Adaptability
The traditional cubicle-centric office layout has become outdated, unable to accommodate the demands for flexibility in workspace arrangements. Employees seek environments that adapt to different tasks and collaborative needs seamlessly.
2. Technology Integration
The rapid pace of technological innovation has outpaced the infrastructure of many corporate offices. Integrating new technologies while maintaining an efficient workspace poses a significant challenge.
3. Cable Management and Aesthetics
With the expansion of tech and connectivity requirements, cable management has become a persistent headache for office managers and IT professionals. Maintaining a clean and organized workspace while ensuring access to power and data remains a considerable challenge.
4. Environmental Sustainability
As awareness of environmental sustainability grows, corporate offices face pressure to adopt eco-friendly practices and reduce their carbon footprint. Balancing sustainability initiatives with operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness poses a challenge.
Trends Shaping the Future of Corporate Offices
1. Hybrid Work Models
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote and hybrid work models. In 2024, corporate offices continue to embrace flexible work arrangements, allowing employees to work from home or choose their preferred work locations.
2. Wellness and Employee Experience
Employee well-being has emerged as a top priority for organizations. Companies are investing in office designs that prioritize natural light, comfortable furniture, and spaces that promote collaboration and creativity, fostering a positive employee experience.
3. Technology-Enabled Workspaces
From smart building systems to collaborative tools, technology plays a central role in shaping the modern office environment. New appliances and hardware devices, AI-powered analytics, and augmented reality applications streamline operations and enhance productivity.
4. Sustainable Practices
Corporate sustainability initiatives extend beyond reducing paper waste. Offices are adopting energy-efficient lighting, recycling programs, and eco-friendly materials to minimize their environmental impact.
The Role of Innovative Solutions
In addressing the pain points and embracing emerging trends, companies turn to innovative solutions to optimize their office spaces. One such solution comes from FSR Inc., a leading provider of infrastructure products for corporate environments.
In the dynamic landscape of modern corporate offices, effective cable management is key to maintaining a clean, organized workspace, leading to improved productivity and collaboration. FSR’s Smart-Way Raceway system is a revolutionary solution designed to streamline cable management while enhancing aesthetics and functionality.
Embracing the Future of Corporate Offices
As corporate offices navigate the complexities of the modern business landscape, innovative solutions like the Smart-Way Raceway empower organizations to adapt, thrive, and create dynamic work environments that inspire productivity and collaboration. By embracing technological advancements and prioritizing employee well-being and sustainability, corporate offices in 2024 will pave the way for a future of innovation and growth.
About FSR
FSR, established in 1981, manufactures a wide variety of signal management and infrastructure solutions for the AV/IT, Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), corporate, education, hospitality, government, and religious markets, including floor, wall, table, and ceiling connectivity boxes and wireways, as well as a full line of interfaces, distribution amplifiers, matrix switchers, seamless scaling switchers, and HDBaseT signal delivery solutions. FSR offers live, 24/7 technical and sales support nationwide from expertly trained technicians and sales representatives. The Company is also an HDBaseT Alliance Adopter Member. For more information: www.fsrinc.com.
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FSR / Press Contact: Donnell Johnson
973-998-2310 • This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
The growth of digital technology has fueled massive opportunities in the education sector, especially with the use of interactive online tools for learning and teaching.
You can agree that it’s easier to remember the things you have watched better than the things you have read. Visuals will always win. Learning is much better when you combine information from multiple platforms incorporating print with digital resources.
The covid-19 pandemic reiterated the need for online learning and the need to have tools that contribute positively to the learning environment.
One such tool is Edpuzzle, an online video software that allows for an interactive learning environment in classrooms. Teachers can use Edpuzzle to create videos and upload them or use the discover feature to search from the vast content on the platform or from other online sources including YouTube videos and TED talks, relevant to their lessons.
With the understanding that video in general is a powerful tool for teaching and disseminating information, here is how you can use Edpuzzle in the classroom to reap the maximum benefits from incorporating video into learning. Younger students like in elementary school who tend to have short attention spans could hugely benefit from having Edpuzzle in the classroom to stimulate engagement and keep them focused.
Would you rather be told how the Himalayas mountain range looks or shown what it looks like? Better yet, as a teacher imagine describing how the Grand Canyon looks compared to showing a video of the real thing explaining the different concepts to students.
Virtual field trips have changed the game in the classroom by allowing teachers and students to have a glimpse of what they are teaching or being taught, helping them to experience things firsthand.
Students and teachers can complement their lessons by traveling anywhere in the world through virtual field trips and experiencing for themselves different attractions and the diverse cultures that exist.
If there is one thing students fear is getting feedback after a class presentation. Some students may second-guess themselves and feel like they did not deliver the best. One way to use Edpuzzle, in this case, would be to record students as they do their presentations and then share the videos to help them critique themselves as well. It’s a better learning lesson when you can see for yourself what the teacher pointed out as areas that need improvement.
Learning a new language can be very challenging especially if the dialect is completely different from your native language. You can apply Edpuzzle in the classroom by sharing videos that teach the grammar and vocabulary of the new language. If you are teaching French, for example, you can give your students a virtual field trip to a native French-speaking country to let them in on the culture and experience how the language is used in different settings.
Since new languages need constant practicing, the good thing with Edpuzzle is that if you are not there as the teacher, the video will still be available for the students to continue learning the new language.
It’s not always guaranteed that a teacher will be around to teach their lesson. Something might come up like sickness or an impromptu trip that prompts the teacher to be away from the classroom. Does that mean that students stop learning? No. Edpuzzle can be used as a substitute teacher where you leave your students with a couple of videos for that lesson to continue learning with the presence of a substitute teacher to supervise.
You can also incorporate assignments into the videos and have them submitted via email. Edpuzzle will also show how many students watched the video.
This is a great tool provided by Edpuzzle where students can be assigned video lessons to watch later and use class time for other meaningful activities. It allows students to learn at their own pace helping to complement what the teacher teaches in the classroom. Flipped classroom if done well can go a long way to reinforce students’ understanding even of some of the hardest concepts because they are not rushed like in a classroom setting.
If you are thinking about incorporating Edpuzzle in the classroom, here are some tips to help you reap the maximum benefits of using videos for your lessons:
Some of the videos could also be used to reinforce what you are teaching to help the students understand the topic better.
However, you can also allow them to watch at home or in class on their own devices for further comprehension. They can watch as many times as possible to ensure that they don’t miss out on any concepts.
With new technological advancements coming into play in the education sector, Edpuzzle presents a great tool to be used by teachers and students in the classroom. Some of the elements like the flipped classroom and substitute teacher are very critical in helping students learn for themselves not just to supplement in-class learning, but also in the eventuality that their teacher is not around.
But generally, using Edpuzzle in the classroom is a welcome idea for teachers who care about incorporating technology to enhance learning and engagement in their classrooms. Hopefully, the above tips help you to be inspired to come up with ideas for your classroom.
Does the idea of a well-organized pantry just excite you when you know you can locate your favorite cookies without any hustle? Well, this post is not about cookies. But it’s about finding something when you need it without wasting time.
In this digital era, it is so frustrating having to sort through piles of unstructured data to look for something. Imagine what it is like for teachers and students who have to deal with mounts of class notes, meeting agendas, assignments, and other administrative documents.
There are many apps out there that promise to help you sort out and organize your data, but have you met Evernote? This is an amazing app designed for note-taking, organizing task lists, and archiving among other many uses.
Let’s see just how powerful this award-winning app is by looking at the different ways teachers and students can use Evernote in the classroom.
Being in the teaching profession comes with a load of documentation. Teachers have to deal with class notes for different classes, department meeting notes, assignments, continuous assessments tests, exams, and schemes of work.
Being a student on the other hand can be a very chaotic experience, especially when dealing with class notes, assignments, research material, projects, and exams.
Here is how teachers and students can use Evernote in the classroom to bring some order and meaning to a rather messy life:
Teachers and students can comfortably take notes directly in the Evernote app using their different devices and save them as notebooks.
Teachers can write down notes about their lesson resources, and take notes during department meetings or when a class is in session to record the different views from students. They can also note down the different ideas they have for their upcoming lessons.
Students on the other hand can type directly into the app during a lecture or record a class session. They can also write notes later after the classroom especially if they want to add to what was taught in class.
Teachers and students can type or scan handwritten notes and upload them to the app. The app allows one to scan and save the scans as images or PDFs. This reduces the amount of paperwork in the classroom and teacher’s desk bringing some semblance of neatness to their spaces.
Teachers can also post assignments and other notes for all the students to access reducing the need to photocopy and distribute physical documents.
Long gone are the days when students used to walk around with huge sets of books and stationery. Evernote will provide access to this information at the tap of a button.
The Evernote app allows teachers and students to create and organize tasks into different lists in a manner that is easily accessible and in order of priority.
Teachers can create to-do lists to schedule lessons, department meetings, exams, and other tasks outside of school.
Students can on the other hand create tasks like when to hand in assignments, attendance of different lessons, meeting with other students for group discussions, etc.
Digital assets unlike physical ones allow one to have access to them even at a later date. Teachers and students can always access their documents anytime anywhere from the Evernote app.
Teachers can keep a record of students’ portfolios indicating their progress and behavior making it easier to access each student’s information and highlighting areas that need improvement.
Students can also keep a record of their research papers and notes for future reference.
Evernote allows teachers and students to easily collaborate from the app helping them share feedback and other documents for their lessons.
It also offers shared collaboration spaces where parents and other teachers can be looped in to what’s happening regarding the students. Crucial information concerning parents’ meetings and other collaborative activities can be easily shared with everyone involved.
Since Evernote can be synced across different devices, students don’t need to worry about only using the computers at school. It can as well be accessed on mobile phones and tablets as long as they are connected to the internet.
The whole idea behind Evernote is organization because it creates order and saves time. Documents and projects can be organized into different notebooks and one can easily access the information they are looking for using the filtered notes widget.
Different notebooks can be created to represent different projects like meetings, lessons, co-curricular activities, or exams. Evernote allows teachers and students to organize and separate personal projects from work projects helping them have a work-life balance.
School life for teachers and students can sometimes be very overwhelming which might disrupt their organization skills and general productivity.
Evernote is about bringing productivity into the lives of teachers and students because it is a platform that is adaptive to their needs.
If you are still new to Evernote or looking for a way to organize your documents, you can first learn how the tool is used and then give it a try. It is most probable that you will stick with it because of its simplicity and results.
Understanding how seating arrangements affect student learning has the potential to be highly beneficial to classroom teachers. Of the many aspects of the physical environment discussed here, classroom seating arrangement is the simplest to understand, the most within a teacher’s control, and one of the most effective behavior interventions; furthermore, it rarely conflicts with any of the other aspects (Bicard et al., 2012; Wannarka & Ruhl, 2008). (An example of conflict between aspects would be adding carpeting to assist with acoustics, thus causing lower air quality because of increased dust particles).
The available research on types of seating arrangements explains that row seating is ideal for individual work, keeping all students (including students with track records of poor behavior) on task (Fernandes, 2009; Wannarka & Ruhl, 2008; Betoret & Argia, 2004; Budge, 2000; Edwards, 2000). Student-centered group arrangements on the other hand (e.g., 4 desks together, circles) are the preferred seating arrangement (Fernandes, 2009; Sztejnberg & Finch, 2006) in groups that are smaller and/or have a history of being highly on task and capable of handling advanced group work. importance
Conclusions
The aspects of the physical environment and their effects on learning have now been clearly identified and associated with groups of individuals (e.g. teachers, administrators, school boards, school building designers) who are most likely to benefit from knowledge of those factors and their effects on learning. This endeavor has produced significant findings about the physical environment of the classroom, leading to the following conclusions about the magnitude of certain environmental factors.
Of the 10 aspects of the physical environment that were identified and discussed, research on air quality in schools clearly indicates that air quality should be given the highest priority over the other factors. Earthman (2002) explains that air quality as it relates to schools is such a crucial element of the physical environment that schools that allow poor air quality to remain a constant are ultimately placing students’ safety at risk. While the other nine factors of the physical environment should be integrated appropriately into a school, proper air quality is an essential element for life. The seriousness of this can be further identified by the EPA’s 2000 statistic regarding student asthma, which estimated that over 10 million days of school are missed due to students suffering from asthma related illnesses due to air quality. Before the EPA’s estimate, Smedje and Norback’s 1999 study stated what would become supporting results: namely, that among the schools they surveyed, those with higher quality ventilation systems assisted in lessening asthma related sick days among their students. Furthermore, Myhrvold, Olsen, and Lauridsen (1996) detailed the seriousness of poor air quality by revealing that a common issue with poor ventilation systems is the increased presence of carbon dioxide, which is deadly in large quantities.
Following this identification of air quality as the highest priority aspect of the physical environment, it is this researcher’s recommendation to develop a scale on which to place the currently established aspects of the physical environment that affect learning in order to compare the significance of these factors on student learning. Figure 1.2, suggested by this researcher, is one possible chart.
Another discovery was the strong influence of seating arrangements on student behavior in the classroom. While many of the other aspects of the physical environment’s effects on learning were clearly out of the average classroom teacher’s control, seating arrangement proved to be both well within the control of the teacher and highly effective in increasing student learning and achievement. Given that research concerning classroom seating arrangements is plentiful, relevant, and of the most direct use to classroom teachers who wish to ensure effective learning, further examination of such research is highly recommended to any and all who teach in a classroom.
Another unexpected conclusion that has been drawn is that technology is indeed an aspect of the physical environment, one that is far more important than educators might realize at first glance at the research. The primary source for this conclusion is Brooks’ 2010 study described above. The in-depth results of the study described two identical biology courses taught to first year university students, one in a traditional classroom and the other in a properly technology-integrated classroom. The professors taught the same material in the same manner, the technology-integrated room’s instructor only adjusted instruction when use of the room’s technology was appropriate. The results showed the technology-integrated room’s students outperformed the traditional room’s students due to the efficiency gained on behalf of the technology students. The technology-integrated room was equipped with a round desk with flat computer screens (comparable to a stationary computer Tablet lying flat) for personal use and a larger, center, flat screen to be used for the display of items for group use and collaboration. This enhanced ability to learn collaboratively in an efficient manner not only allowed the technology-integrated students to excel, but also allowed students with low ACT scores (who were assumed to be underperforming) to excel beyond the higher scoring ACT students in the traditional classroom. This study likely marks the beginning of a time in which technology is accepted as a clear aspect of the physical environment of the classroom.
Based on all of the synthesized research, recommendations, and conclusions provided within this research post, educational researchers would be wise to move forward with educational research projects that are likely to delve even deeper into the factors of the physical environment that effect learning, with a focus on air quality, technology, and seating.
Part 4 References
Budge, D. (2000). Secret is in the seating. Times Educational Supplement, 43, 26-27.
Earthman, G. I. (2004) Prioritization of 31 criteria for school building adequacy.
Edwards, C. (2000). Classroom discipline and management. New York, NY: Wiley.
The height of a classroom’s ceiling can have an effect on both noise and lighting in the classroom. Earthman (2004) explains that higher ceilings can lessen the quality of both classroom lighting and acoustics. Research on the effects of ceiling height on classroom acoustics would be beneficial to school building designers. These designers would no doubt be able to take information regarding ceiling height into account when ensuring rooms have proper acoustics. They might also be able to provide suggestions to districts whose older school buildings have higher ceiling, and who require recommendations on how to improve acoustics despite that.
The display of student works both in the classroom and in common areas of the school has been shown to bring about a positive effect on learning. In a study by Killeen et al. (2003) it is explained that students whose work was displayed in the classroom following the completion of that work showed a revitalized sense of invested interest in the learning process of their classroom. According to Killeen the educational pride students took in contributing to the overall class led to increasingly motivated students. Maxwell’s (2000) study found that schools that displayed student artwork in common areas such as lobby entrances to schools and cafeterias tended to foster an atmosphere that made all feel welcomed. Information regarding the positive effects of common area displays contributed to by students would be beneficial to building administrators who strive to develop a strong sense of school pride. It is also recommended that teachers consider the similarly positive effects when student works are posted in the classroom.
An added positive effect from the display of student works in the classroom is the possibility of the inclusion of preferable colors into the classroom. Though this aspect of the physical environment of a school tends to be dismissed by adults, children who have been surveyed about their perceptions of their school’s wall colors (and other colors in the school) suggest that color is of importance to them (Engelbrecht, 2003). Elementary and middle school students showed a stronger preference toward bright colors (such as lime green) and high school students toward neutral colors (such as beige) (Engelbrecht, 2003). Another color-related issue is students’ ability to stay focused on a certain section of the room (e.g., the white board) because of contrast. The research shows that if the wall students primarily face (which is presumably the wall that the white board or Smart board hangs on) were a different color than the surrounding walls, students would indeed be able to focus their eyes on it longer (Engelbrecht, 2003). While the positive effects of color could be useful to teachers and building administrators who assign student display space in their respective control areas, the knowledge of those effects may prove to be most useful for building designers or maintainers. Designers who decide the original wall color may make use of the data to assign the primary wall (identified earlier as the wall students will face) a different color so that students may reap the benefits of prolonged ability to focus due to increased color contrast. Building maintenance (and the school district and building administrators who assign them tasks) may consider this useful as they themselves can simply have the target wall painted after the fact.
Given the extended period of time basic education students generally spend sitting in a student desk or other type of seat, it is sensible to investigate whether or not such furniture is optimal for student learning. Research that investigated whether student seat designs aligned with the average student’s body-type and comfortability requirements revealed conflict (Panagiotopoulou, et al., 2004; Parcells et al., 1999). Though customizable student seats have existed for nearly a century (Woolner, 2007), few schools have made use of them even though studies have shown that improved seats increase the effectiveness of students’ learning (Knight & Noyes, 1999). Findings regarding ideal student desk designs would benefit schools’ designers if they are responsible for choosing the type of student desks that will reside in the school or the group within a district assigned to choosing students desks. This may also be useful to teachers should they ever be in a position to obtain superior student desks via a grant or other means.
After investigating the desks and seats students sit in on a daily basis, it is logical to examine how those items are arranged in a classroom and how desk arrangements affect the learning process. According to Woolner (2007) desk arrangement is an element of the physical environment of a classroom that can be easily adjusted by the instructor and can very well cause learning to occur more effectively. The research shows that for each type of desk arrangement (e.g., rows, groups), a grounds for this choice must lie in the instructor’s pedagogy (Woolner, 2007). In short, different arrangements have been found to be most effective with different level students, different subjects, and different teaching styles.
Are you enjoying Part 3 of this series? If so, we encourage you to keep reading in [Part 4].
Part 3 References
Earthman, G. I. (2004) Prioritization of 31 criteria for school building adequacy.
Tanner (2008) explains that exposure to natural sunlight is required to ensure that a student’s basic physiological needs are being met, which allows effective learning to take place. Although it may not commonly be realized, the need for natural sunlight is second only to the need for food and water (Tanner, 2008). Evidence of the benefits of providing for this need in an educational setting can be identified in a 1999 study that compared classrooms that were exposed to appropriate levels of sunlight to classrooms in which sunlight was lacking. Classrooms whose access to windows was limited, and in turn lacked sunlight, were stunted in their progress on both reading and math (by 26% and 20% respectively) (Heschong Mahone Group, 1999). Edwards and Torcellini’s 2002 comprehensive literature review relayed similar findings and Burke & Burke-Samide’s (2004) research does so as well. Research conducted in 1992 succeeded in dispelling the idea that plentiful window access in a classroom will distract students from activities outside. The study revealed that of all the distractions from learning, views from windows are typically the least drastic (Kuller & Lindsten, 1992). In addition to providing specific guidelines for optimal sunlight access via classroom windows, Tanner’s research also notes that light bulbs that are capable of mimicking natural light may be used as an alternative. Information on proper lighting and window sizes in a classroom is most beneficial to district school boards and the designers they contract to build schools. District school boards should be well informed about the need for natural sunlight in classrooms and the ability to gain such sunlight from larger windows. This would allow designers, who would also ideally be informed on the subject, to follow a board recommendation for larger windows (and skylights) and an overall school design that allows for all classrooms to have at least one wall of windows. This choice would provide the needed light and avoid the increased cost of employing full spectrum light bulbs. Information about the benefits of natural light on student learning would also assist teachers with the setup of their classrooms (planning to keep blinds open when possible, for example) and with planning lessons (allowing the possibility of designing lessons compatible with sitting outside during warmer weather).
Noise can affect the learning of students in a classroom environment both negatively and positively (Burke & Burke-Samide, 2004). Noise that emanates from outside the classroom (e.g., from the hallways, other classrooms due to thin walls or open doors, road traffic noise due to open classroom windows) is described as the main type of noise that negatively affects learning (Haines, 2001). This noise has been shown to distract students from the lesson at hand and to ultimately interfere with the mind’s process of retaining information (Hygge, 2003). Where noise within a classroom is concerned, there are several scenarios to be addressed. Noise within a classroom that is created by students (due to the activity at hand or disorderly conduct) has the tendency to distract and impede learning just as outside noise does (Shield and Dockrell, 2004). Though this can be corrected with the instructor’s redirection, it has been well-established that interrupting the natural flow of learning taking place in order to correct behavior significantly interferes with that learning (Woolner, 2007). Lundquist’s (2002) work describes how the acoustics of classrooms can also affect students’ learning. A room with poor acoustics can make it difficult to hear an instructor properly, whereas overactive acoustics can make it so that typical noise is brought to an atypically large decibel, distracting students. Following this, a room that is ideal in its acoustic design could assist with maintaining an optimal decibel level and contribute to the quality of learning (Burke & Burke Samide, 2004). When focusing on the ideal learning environment for an individual student, research on background noise shows that while many students prefer quiet to learn, others benefit from soothing sounds in the environment (Burke & Burke-Samide, 2004). A common example of this is students who claim they work better with the radio or television on. Information regarding appropriate noise levels for learning areas and common areas in schools would benefit school designers and school boards as well as building administrators and teachers. Designers who are tasked to create classrooms with ideal acoustics for lesson teaching would be better equipped to design school rooms. Information on sound insulation around hallways and other non-teaching common rooms would also assist designers in creating customized common areas. Given the likely increase in cost of enhancing these areas, this information would also be of use to school boards. Building administrators could make use of this information when developing policies concerning acceptable noise levels in common areas. Teachers would make most use of research about noise levels in the classroom and of research about the effect interruptions to correct excessive noise levels can have on the learning process.
Are you enjoying Part 2 of this series? If so, we encourage you to keep reading in [Part 3].
Part 2 References
Heschong Mahone Group. (1999). Day lighting in schools. Fair Oaks, CA: Author.
Woodland Park, NJ – January 12, 2024– FSR is proud to announce that this Holiday Season marked another year of spreading joy as we had the privilege of sending 45 children from a Florida State Foster Care facility, accompanied by 5 supervisors, to a heartwarming movie night on Christmas evening.
These children, who find themselves in a state facility through no fault of their own, often face challenging circumstances, especially during the holiday season. Recognizing the potential for loneliness during this time, FSR took the initiative to brighten their holidays with an evening of entertainment.
Each child was provided with a movie theater gift card, covering the entrance fee and food expenses. The goal was to create a memorable experience for these children, allowing them to enjoy the festive season in a special way.
FSR collaborated with the esteemed charity, Kindness Shared Happiness Squared, to make this event possible. Kindness Shared Happiness Squared shares our commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of those facing challenges, and we are grateful for their support in facilitating this heartwarming event.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our amazing customers, specifiers, and friends who have consistently supported FSR's mission to give back to the community. Your contributions have made a significant difference in the lives of these children, and we are honored to have you as part of the FSR family.
About FSR
FSR, established in 1981, manufactures a wide variety of signal management and infrastructure solutions for the AV/IT, Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), corporate, education, hospitality, government, and religious markets, including floor, wall, table, and ceiling connectivity boxes and wireways, as well as a full line of interfaces, distribution amplifiers, matrix switchers, seamless scaling switchers, and HDBaseT signal delivery solutions. FSR offers live, 24/7 technical and sales support nationwide from expertly trained technicians and sales representatives. The Company is also an HDBaseT Alliance Adopter Member. For more information: www.fsrinc.com.
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FSR / Press Contact: Donnell Johnson
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ISE Stand #5H100
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Cutting-edge Offerings from FSR Provide Effective and Affordable Options for Integrators and End-Users
Woodland Park, NJ – USA – 19 December 2023 – FSR, a premier manufacturer offering an extensive range of products for the Pro AV and Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) sectors, reveals its intention to showcase a suite of infrastructure and power products at Integrated Systems Europe. Tailored for the global AV market, these solutions are designed to enhance budget efficiency and simplify installation processes. The products will be exhibited at Stand #5H100 throughout the event scheduled from January 30 to February 2, 2024, at Fira Barcelona – Gran Via. ISE stands as the primary international exhibition for AV and systems integration, spotlighting advancements from top technology and solution providers worldwide.
NEW PWB-323 EURO-2G / PWB-323 EURO-4G Brackets
FSR is introducing bracket options that allow its popular PWB-323 and PWB-323XL Project Wall Boxes to be used in any country. FSR's international series wall box brackets quickly adapt to any country's specific 45mm snap-in power outlet to fit into PWB-323 wall boxes. These economical large open wall boxes are priced specifically to ease the installer's bottom line while simplifying audiovisual and IT installations by providing space for routing cables, AC connections, and digital media products. The new PWB-323 EURO-2G bracket features two 45mm square openings for power outlets, while the PWB-323 EURO-4G offers four 45mm openings.
NEW Smart-Way Wall Raceway
FSR’s Smart-Way Wall Raceway – the newest addition to FSR’s Smart-Way family – provides the ability to transition from a floor to ceiling Raceway system. FSR’s Smart-Way Raceway, now capable of supporting European connectors, is the most cost-effective and easiest way to get power, data, and AV across the room to where it’s needed. The Smart-Way is intended for offices, conference rooms, collaborative work environments, classrooms, or anywhere wire management is desired. The wall unit consists of a ceiling flex conduit feed with soft edges for easy wiring and features floor to wall transition and new edging. Available in slate and aluminum, the Smart-Way Wall Raceway offers the same clean look as the floor version.
NEW International Wall Plate Adapters
FSR’s International wall plate kits easily adapt any country’s specific 45mm snap-in power outlet to fit into the manufacturer’s 1-GANG and 2-GANG wall plates. These adapters seamlessly integrate into FSR’s complete line of floor boxes, wall boxes and other products. Both 1-GANG and 2-GANG kits include a mounting plate with 45mm opening(s), rear retaining plate and are available with select outlet(s).
FSR will also be showing international versions of its extensive series of Table Boxes including the CT6-EU for an elegant and affordable solution for any installation, and the RT6-EU for ultimate connectivity and functionality. The Company will round out the display with numerous Floor Boxes that combine rugged construction with a graceful design, and its Digital Ribbon Cables that utilize a proprietary technology to allow high speed, high-definition HDMI® signal transmission.
FSR manufactures its audio and video switching, control products, connectivity boxes and collaboration systems from headquarters in Woodland Park, NJ USA where ample inventory is available for immediate delivery.
About FSR
FSR, established in 1981, manufactures a wide variety of signal management and infrastructure solutions for the AV/IT, Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), corporate, education, hospitality, government, and religious markets, including floor, wall, table, and ceiling connectivity boxes and wireways, as well as a full line of interfaces, distribution amplifiers, matrix switchers, seamless scaling switchers and HDBaseT signal delivery solutions. FSR offers live 24/7 technical and sales support throughout the country from expertly trained technicians and sales representatives. The Company is also an HDBaseT Alliance Adopter Member. For more information: www.fsrinc.com.
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FSR Contact: Jan Sandri
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Business Inquiries: Chaz Porter
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Press Contact: Dom Djecbitric
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