iQuest
© 2001 LeapFrog
New for 2005-- iQuest quiz content is now part of the FLY Pentop Computer test module. New for 2004 -- this product has been redesigned to be smaller (less bulky), with content that covers 240 textbooks. Additional features include a dictionary, calculator, note pad, address book and calendar. It now comes in two colors (either purple or black) and offers changeable faceplates -- the "cool" factor is definatly higher than the older, large unit. 2002-no longer bundled with the MindStation and you can buy the cartridges at retail ($15). New software includes an SAT tutorial (iQuest Testprep). The following review is from the 1/02 issue. This battery operated handheld device attempts to put much of the typical middle school curriculum in the hands of a student. The device contains a small qwerty keyboard, and a 1 1/2 by 2 inch square LCD screen (there is no touch screen), and a 4MB ROM cartridge that can be transferred between the iQuest and the LeapLink (a USB cradle, included in the price). From the first touch of the "ON" button, the iQuest is easy to use. A clear, friendly voice presents the first menu options: a simple calendar, address book, Merriam-Webster dictionary and calculator. But the heart of the content resides in the Chapter Challenge and Pop Quiz options, which can be set to cover content from your child's textbook (see the list at www.leapfrog.com). These let a student select a grade and subject, and then administers a set of multiple choice questions dealing with a current homework topic. As a student plays, the iQuest tracks progress, which can be uploaded and stored on the LeapFrog website. The idea is to score as many points as possible with correct answers before the clock runs out. All quizzes are multiple choice and don't provide additional help; plus they not much fun, with questions such as "how many representatives in Congress?" Perhaps it could be used as a general portable supplement to school work, e.g., to keep skills up over the summer. It is possible to imagine a creative teacher using the iQuest to replace or supplement homework. Drawbacks could include the quality of the display (black and white, low resolution) and weight (about twice that of a palm; it running on 4AA batteries). The key advantage to the iQuest is the ability to download customized content and that is scored and stored. We were able to do this from the website without much trouble, and when it works, it is great. It is easy to see how this concept has great potential, especially if teachers get behind the idea.
$49.99, Smart Toy
Teaches: math, social studies, test preperation