EnVision Math
© 2008 Pearson Learning Group
The digital counterpart to the Envision Math textbook series, EnVision Math (for K-6) is Pearson's second "blended" curriculum — meaning the designers started from scratch with interactive media in mind. So if a child opens a book to page five and sees a set of animals to measure, she'll see the very same animals when the lesson is presented on the computer screen. Other features include links and a password for every parent, so children with web access can work from home. The curriculum uses Pearson's existing SuccessNet and Success Tracker services, so teachers can track each child's progress. All of the 1200 lessons are Flash-based, feature clear audio, and are tied to state standards. Also interesting is that the Internet lessons are designed to be interactive white-board friendly, with large icons that are easy to touch — from the top or the bottom of the screen. According to Marc Nelson, the Director of User Experience for the project, "The main innovation is the seamless integration between the web and the book." If you can run a browser, you can get connected. The curriculum is designed to be used either in large groups (through a projector or interactive White Board) or a small group (through individual web stations or tablet computers). The programming was done in Chandler, AZ, and is available in English or Spanish. Each lesson consists of a visual learning animation, a teaching section, guided practice, individual practice and assessment by way of a five question quiz. Any doubt that the the form of future textbooks is changing will start to fade, with products like this one. See http://www.envisionmathtexas.com/ for a demo, in Flash naturally.
Windows, Mac OSX, Internet Site
Teaches: math