learning through the power of curiosity
Eduosity Reviews & News offers a fresh perspective on the most educationally relevant products from an education technology, human computer interface (HCI), human factors and ergonomics (HF&E), and parental point of view.
Google’s latest flagship device, the HTC Nexus 9, is an 8.9” tablet that retails at $399 for the 16GB model. The most notable advantage of any Nexus device is the pure Android experience with undelayed updates directly from Google as they become available. Let’s see how the new experience measures up.
Read MoreThe Toshiba Chromebook 2 is a quite capable Chromebook where it counts. The Chromebook 2 comes in two variants; “Standard HD” screen (1366x768, priced $219 US) and “True HD” (1920x1080, priced $329 US). Both come with a well outfitted spec list which easily bests competitors in the price range. Google has sweetened the purchase of a Chromebook with 1TB of Google Drive space for two years, which is a $240 value as long as it is purchased by January 31, 2014. Is the Toshiba Chromebook 2 as good as it appears? Read on to find out.
Read MoreThe Samsung Galaxy NotePRO 12.2 is the first large, high resolution screen, premium tablet on the market. It comes with a pressure sensitive fine point stylus and runs on a Samsung customized version of the Android 4.4 operating system that allows up to four applications on the screen at once. Aimed at productivity, how does it perform and can it meet user needs? User needs for four distinct user groups (K-12, higher ed, professional, and personal) are addressed in the conclusion.
Read MoreWhat does Chrome OS and the HP Chromebook 11 priced at $279 have to offer? Is it a good value for the education market?
Read MoreSteve Jobs famously made the case for not needing a stylus. However, there are times that the average index finger is too large to manipulate an item adequately, which creates the need for a tool. On a tablet the need for a tool arises when one wishes to handwrite or illustrate. It is possible to do both with a finger tip, but the results are fairly crude for most. This review examines average styli and one that is specifically designed for handwriting; the Adonit Jot Script Evernote Edition.
Read MoreThose seeking low cost solutions may be attracted by the Asus Transformer Book T100; I was. It is a hybrid (tablet with attachable keyboard that can function like a laptop) that runs Microsoft Windows 8.1 and comes with Microsoft Office 2013, Home and Student Edition. It has a 10.1 inch screen with a 1366 x 768 resolution and a decent looking spec list for its current retail price of $349.99. Comparatively, the Microsoft Surface 2 with keyboard starts around $570 and is limited by Windows RT. I thought the Asus Transformer Book T100 may be a good solution, especially for those determined to stick with Microsoft Office. After reading some positive reviews (full of fluff in hindsight), one could say I got caught up in bottom dollar blindness and decided to purchase one for review. Potential buyers be warned and keep reading to find out why.
Read MoreThis review of Microsoft’s Surface 2 started with excitement and anticipation for what Microsoft’s flagship hardware/software could offer, but after a few days of use it ultimately ended in disappointment. The hardware is well put together with high-end finishes, but the finishes only carry the user so far. This review examines the ins and outs of using the Surface 2 and what it has to offer.
Read MoreIs the high end Kindle Fire HDX 8.9 really worth the price? This review takes a hard look at the usability aspects that come from living with and using the Amazon Kindle Fire HDX 8.9 in a family environment. Having a background in educational technology, human computer interface, usability and interactive design I tend to look at things a bit differently. This review will explore the Kindle Fire HDX 8.9 from the aspect of both an educational technologist and a father of four.
Read MoreThe pros and cons differ with each tablet and the ecosystem that it represents. However, the most important feature with any device a parent hands to a child is the maker's implementation of parental controls, how easy they are to set up, and the granularity of control they give the parent.
Read MoreOver the previous year I have been using / long term reviewing three devices. The Apple iPad (3rd Gen), Google/Asus Nexus 7, and the Amazon Kindle Fire HD. This review isn’t about specs and price points which are easily attainable in numerous other places. This review is about long term user experience living with the device day in and out. It is telling after long term use to stop using a device for a period of time and reflect on what one most misses.
Read MoreEduosity consults and conducts research to aid in the development of relevant engaging learning technologies and experiences. Formally known at Nautical Flame Consulting, Eduosity’s projects have recently focused on integrating iPads into the learning environment while studying their impact on adult learning.
Reviews & News offers a fresh perspective on the most educationally relevant products from an education technology, human computer interface (HCI), human factors and ergonomics (HF&E), and parental point of view.
