Classrooms: Dell enables greater access to technology

WASHINGTON, US: Building on the success of its recently launched netbook for education, Dell announced two new offerings here today that expand its K-12 technology portfolio and make it easier for students, teachers, and parents to connect with one another and share information.

Through a partnership with Stoneware, Inc., Dell can provide education customers with software that delivers access to applications and services in a private cloud computing model. Stoneware’s webNetwork creates a “private” cloud computing environment that enables students, teachers and parents to use district applications, hosted applications, student portfolios, and learning resources through a secure virtual web desktop.

The cloud-based solution allows 24/7 access to learning materials from school-issued or personal devices. It also enables educators to differentiate instruction to accommodate learning styles, individualize lessons and assess student progress to adjust content and delivery.

Dell also unveiled a Mobile Computing Station for Latitude 2100 netbooks designed to make cloud-based system management, student sharing and security simple and convenient, allowing teachers to focus on students’ achievement, not on managing technology. Remote management also allows delivery of system updates while netbooks are charging and locked in the Station during class breaks or overnight. The Station also stores, charges and networks up to 24 Latitude 2100 netbooks with just one Ethernet cord and one power cord.

Dell’s extended K-12 technology portfolio:

Provides IT managers with the ability to addresses many of the cost and complexity challenges that historically have limited the adoption of classroom technologies.

Empowers parents to be more involved in their child’s education with learning content that can be accessed from anywhere, at anytime.

Better equips students with the technology needed to develop 21st century skills necessary to compete and succeed in the digital age.

Combined, the solutions announced today further transform the teaching and learning experience, while offering a practical, effective and affordable way to access classroom technology.

Dell – Stoneware Solution

Private cloud: Stoneware’s webNetwork creates a private cloud on an organization’s servers / network.

Secure, remote access: Applications, data and content specific to teachers, students or parents can be accessed anytime, anywhere, using any device.

Single sign-on: Access to applications, file servers, student record systems, and databases managed via Microsoft’s Active Directory and Novell’s eDirectory.

File Systems: Complete file system access to shared, home and public network directories supported robustly with Dell enterprise products.

Dell Mobile Computing Station

Retractable doors: Stow-away doors are located on either side of the cart for easy, unobstructed access to netbooks. Guide system ensures doors operate smoothly. Doors may be locked to prevent theft of netbooks.

Hinged doors: Hinged doors conceal lower compartment. Locks help prevent unauthorized access.

Upper compartment: Houses 24 10” Latitude 2100 netbooks, custom docking solution and one fan.

Comfortable handles: Integrated handles allow the cart to be pushed from either end.

Custom docks: Custom “keyed” docking shape prevents user from inserting netbook backwards.

Custom docks designed specifically for Latitude 2100 netbooks provide interconnection to power and Ethernet (Ethernet switch optional).

Dock tabs: A tab at the front of each dock ensures positive seating of netbooks into the docks. Netbooks may be easily removed from docks using a single hand.