eInstruction Classroom Performance System (CPS)

This section provides concise, original reviews of new or important hardware, software, Web sites, & electronic media that relate to the K-12 curriculum. All reviews are written by practicing educators who, in most cases, have used the software in a school environment. Where grouped into broad, age-appropriate categories, these categories should not be viewed as prescriptive. To facilitate "comparison shopping," these reviews are highly structured. Reviewers prepare a "report card" based on the five-star scale:

Hardware

eInstruction Classroom Performance System (CPS)

Company: eInstruction Corporation, 308 N. Carroll Blvd., Denton, TX 76201; Phone: [phone]; Fax: [phone]; Web: http://www.einstruction.com/.

Description: The Classroom Performance System (CPS) is an integrated software and hardware solution that combines a database with an interactive infrared (IR) wireless response component that connects to the classroom computer. Teachers can create databases of questions, standards (state-, school-, or teacher-defined) and classes. Lessons of questions are delivered by means of some form of computer presentation system. The response system, consisting of a receiver unit connected to the presentation computer and a set of IR response pads, allows each student to answer the questions by pressing the appropriate button on her/his remote-control-like response pad. The results are automatically tabulated and can be presented in a variety of ways. The CPS is designed for both multi-computer and single computer classrooms.

Specifications: Every CPS package comes with one receiver unit, up to 256 individual response pads, a carrying case, and an unlimited site license for the CPS software that creates the quizzes, tests, and collaborative learning activities.

Minimum System Requirements: Windows systems: Pentium processor, 64 MB RAM (128 MB recommended), 20 MB hard drive space for CPS software (more for databases), and at least one open serial or USB port.

Macintosh systems: G3 processor, 64 MB RAM (128 MB preferred), Mac OS 9.1, and one open USB port.

Both systems: 800 x 600 screen resolution, Internet Explorer 4.0, a projection system (projector, television, LCD).

Price: Pricing is based on the number of students using the system. Standard packages with response pads for 16 to 32 students range from $1,195-$3,995. Pricing is available for larger class sizes, with up to 256 response pads.

Warranty: The Classroom Performance System has a 1-year warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty...