Technology & Learning - September 2008 - (Page 18)

PRODUCTREVIEWS Put to the Test T&L reviewers rate new gear By Joe Huber and Carol Holzberg PRODUCT: TOSHIBA M700 http://explore.toshiba.com/education/home Retail price: $1,799 DESCRIPTION: Tablet laptop. HOW TO USE IN THE CLASSROOM: With Microsoft OneNote, this (like any tablet PC) makes an excellent note-taking platform. Add Vista’s improved handwriting recognition and note taking becomes even easier. PROS: Very lightweight, and stays cooler than most laptops. The built-in Web cam is nice feature. CONS: The battery only lasted about 2.5 hours. The location of the screen lock could wear after time, which would prevent the user from locking the screen. OVERALL IMPRESSION: The short battery life means one would need at least four batteries for the average school day. The fingerprint sign-in will be a privacy issue with some parents. Because of the low battery life and the hinge on the screen, I would recommend this as a teacher workstation, perhaps to use in lieu of an interactive whiteboard and a computer, but do not think it is durable enough to use as a student workstation. PRODUCT: ACER ASPIRE ONE www.acer.com Retail Price: Windows version, $399, Linux version, $379 operation system will add this card to the existing on-board flash, increasing your hard drive space. CONS: I would have like to have tested the Windows version at $399. The Linux version will not run curriculum software that comes with textbooks. OVERALL IMPRESSION: I would recommend this product, but only the Windows version. Technology that cannot run the curriculum software that comes with textbooks is of little use at grades before high school and even in high school for remediation. When more textbook companies put their software online, then Linux OS will make more sense. If you are looking only for Internet and office applications, the Linux version is a good choice, but for only $20 more per unit, I am still in favor of the Windows version. DESCRIPTION: Mini notebook computer with Linux. HOW TO USE IN THE CLASSROOM: This mini notebook is an excellent platform for online testing. Its small footprint allows it to be used in any classroom or lab setting. I tested the Linux version, but the Windows version would also be perfect for a science lab, where you could attach various probes to it. The low price also makes this an excellent tool for those classes where you just need Internet and office applications (the Linux version comes with Open Office). PROS: The 8.9-inch, screen size and 89% keyboard are very comfortable. The light weight (2.2 pounds including battery) and 9.8 x 6.7 x 1.1-inch size make this a joy to carry. It also comes with built-in Wi-Fi. The system has an SD reader slot that can take an additional SD memory card. The 18 | TECH & LEARNING http://explore.toshiba.com/education/home http://www.acer.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Technology & Learning - September 2008

Technology & Learning 9/08 Contents Editor’s Desk News & Trends Put to the Test Lessons on Leadership What, You Worry? Back Office Business How to Get your MEd Online What’s New Student Response Systems Get Smarter Leader of the Year Profile: She’s Got Game

Technology & Learning - September 2008

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