Alpha Smart

Describe the technology being used?
(Provide links and references so others can visit)

The AlphaSmart is a writing tool. www.alphasmart.com

How was the technology integrated into the assessment environment?

This tool is a combination handheld and laptop. It can be synchronized with any computer (pc or mac) and includes built-in wireless. This tool allows the student to complete assessments and e-mail them to the teacher or synchronize to the teacher’s computer, or print out the completed assessment from any printer.

-What method (observation, selected response, written response, personal communication, performance, student reflection) of assessments were implemented using the technology? (Questions, see Stuart chapter ?)

The method can be any or all of the above. In my teaching experience (using a similar model) it was used for written response and student reflection.

Was this a technology that replaced a current method of assessment or does it provide assessment opportunities previously not available without the advent of this technology. (For an in depth discussion of this, refer to the NAP article)

This technology replaced a current method of paper and pencil assessment. It also allowed the student access to technology without requiring the student to be in a classroom or lab.

In your opinion, what were some of the benefits of the tool?

The tool is compatible with Palm software and all MS Office, it has e-mail capability and wireless. This tool does not need to be in a classroom or lab, it can be used anywhere as it has a long battery life. There isn’t any need to install printer software and it has a full size keyboard and easy to read screen.

In your opinion, what are the limitations of the tool?

I have not experienced any limitations.

Do you see this as a tool that could be used in your educational setting?

It has been used successfully.

Where did you learn about the tool (formal evaluation reports, vender case studies, etc.)?

The school already had them when I arrived.