LeapTrack Assessment and Instruction System 4.0
© 2006 LeapFrog
Deliver your K-5 reading and math program through a LeapPad (actually a QuantumPad) with this complete classroom package, now upgraded for both Mac and Windows. The package consists of a large USB cradle with 12 slots, 12 empty RAM cartridges, 12 Quantum Pads with headphones and AC adapters (the QuantumPads also run on AA batteries), and approximately 430 color-coded lesson cards that cover reading and math. After testing a few randomly selected lessons, we were more impressed with the delivery system than the didactic, scripted delivery of the content. Unlike the consumer LeapPad titles, these activities do not allow for experimentation. One reason for this is that the software is tracking student responses, to be later recorded on the teacher's computer when the child plugs in his or her cartridge into the teacher's dock. For example, it is not possible to explore a page or to hear words read aloud. The management software is excellent; both easy to use and robust on either a stand alone or networked computer. We plugged it into an HP laptop, and it set itself up without a glitch. The information kept for each student is shallow; it tracks only those activities completed, with the percentage of correct answers (there is no diagnostic information). But this information can now be collected to create reports for the entire class, school or district. Other new features include a Parent Report that offers an analysis of their child's mastery of skills as well as areas that need improvement. It also includes standards-based learning paths for every student. All in all, this is a program that is worth considering for a K-5 school or home schooling setting. The durability of the Quantum pads and the individualized, personal delivery of the content is a major plus. Just remember that you can purchase much better designed LeapPad software at your nearest retail store, for a fraction of the cost. Of course, there's nothing to say you can't run these titles on the LeapTrack's Quantum Pads, to add some spice to the scripted LeapTrack lessons.
Win, smart toy, Mac OSX
Teaches: math, reading, language arts, science
CTR Rating: 84%