New Low Cost Student Laptops Bring Web Learning To More Students
In recent months three new low-cost notebook computers have been introduced that will bring access to web-based learning to a new group of students worldwide. The first is the One Laptop per Child (OLPC), which will be sold to governments to bring computing to children in developing countries. Next comes the Classmate PC from Intel, which also aims to bring a low-cost notebook computer to families who would not be able to afford a traditional computer.
Both these computers are aimed at children in the developing world. However, a new computer called the Eee PC from Asus is bringing an affordable, child-friendly computer to any family that wants to buy one. For $399, you can buy this small, sleek notebook. It lacks a hard drive or Windows software, but includes a web browser, WiFi for internet access, and basic software for editing documents, email, etc.
Traditionally, a notebook this small and portable would have cost around $2,000. The Eee PC can fit in a student’s backpack or move with them around the house.
We at Learning Upgrade are hopeful that these new affordable student computers will provide more students with access to the world of online learning. Over the next few months, we will be testing to make sure our Math Upgrade and Reading Upgrade courses work on these new computers. If you have an experience with our courses on these laptops, please let us know in the comments.
January 10th, 2008 at 12:20 pm
I am very very interested in these computers. I am a retired teacher in the public schools. I teach privately and lead a student service-learning group through the Points of Light Foundation. Our group has adopted the Lighthouse Shelter’s Children’s Center in Marshall Missouri. This organization shelters mothers and children who have been through domestic violence and abuse, it also serves hundreds of children each year in outreach programs. One of their dreams is to have some computers available in their center due to the very low literacy level of the children who come to them. Please respon
Connie Mellencamp MSE - Non-Profit Group inquiry - American Angels Kids Care Club. iluvk68@hotmail.com
January 10th, 2008 at 12:38 pm
Connie Mellencamp,
The new low-cost, very portable notebooks like the Asus Eee PC are excellent for running web-based programs and courses like ours, and also for email and web surfing for students.
You would have to contact Asus (web site http://eeepc.asus.com/us/index.htm) directly to find out how to purchase. They may have a school reseller in your area.
Best wishes,
Learning Upgrade
January 14th, 2008 at 11:48 am
i am seeking cd’s to help a child with severe dyslexia. I need vista compatible software. I am interested in reading and math for her.
January 14th, 2008 at 11:53 am
Lee Mont,
Our <a href=”http://www.learningupgrade.com/html/ruhome.htm” title=”Reading Upgrade Online Course Information” rel=”nofollow”>Reading Upgrade</a> course has been used for many students with severe dyslexia. Your student may have to review and repeat lessons many times to make a breakthrough. We do not have a CDROM version– your child can sign in using a web browser to our online course. You can to sign up for a free trial and see how child responds.