Teachermate Computer
© 2008 Innovations for Learning
See the TeacherMate Differentiated Instruction System. This review was written about the "Teachermate" in 2008. About the size of a deck of cards, the Teachermate is a (4 x 3 inch) handheld computer with an SD card slot, 512 MB internal memory, and rechargable batteries — with a lifespan of 3.5 hours. The controls consist of a D-pad (with direction keys) and an input button, plus three color-coded answer input keys for multiple choice inputs. We were less-than-impressed by the pre-installed reading and math curriculum, but did not spend enough time with any given lesson to assign a rating. According to the publisher, content is aligned with major reading and math programs, and includes a library of leveled readers. By attaching the device to a regular computer using the USB cord, teachers can assign a level for each student, and then the student can choose a book within his/her level. You can also upgrade the software or change options, such as setting the time for how long a student can do a reading activity. These are all great ideas, although we're not sure how well they are implemented in this case. An extra synch and storage case enables a teacher to quickly charge all of the computers at the same time and synch all the student score data to a single computer. All activities are offered in Spanish and English. While the idea is good, be careful before you commit large sums of money in this approach.
$50, Smart Toy
Teaches: math, reading