AVRover & ONfinity Portable Interactive Whiteboards

An Easy Way to Create your Own 3D Content

As 3D technology grows in popularity, more and more options are becoming available for users to create their own 3D content.  Stereoscopic 3D Cameras are a great way for educators to take full advantage of their 3D Technology investment, enabling them to shoot 3D Videos as well as take 3D still photos.  

Some great potential applications for the classroom: take video of a class trip and point out monuments or key exhibits that students may have missed or take still photos of student projects for peer evaluation and student presentations.  Here at AVRover, we've used 3D Cameras (in our case, the Fujifilm FinePix W3 Digital Camera) to both film and take still photos at tradeshows, and the results are quite impressive. 

Because content can be created in real-time by students or educators, 3D Cameras are a great way for educators to engage students and provide yet another way to bring the benefits of 3D technology to the classroom.  Pair your 3D Camera with a 3DAVRover and show you and your students' 3D Projects anywhere.

Contact us for 3D Camera recommendations and more.

3D and the Visual Learner

The concept of “visual learning”  is something that has been long discussed in education.  The “visual learner”  is defined as someone who learns more efficiently and quicker through seeing images and visualizing concepts than by listening to a teacher explain them. 

According to some studies roughly 1/3 of the population falls into the category of “visual learners” which probably explains the explosion of more object oriented technology in tools, everywhere from Fast Food restaurants that have mostly switched over to product defined ordering and order entry modules to entertainment and cell phone providers that have menus defined by symbols rather than words. 

 How do we reach this “other” kind of learner in academia is another question entirely.  Dr.  Linda Kreger Silverman has studied the schism between what she defines as two distinct learning styles:  visual-spatial and auditory-sequential learners.  As individuals understanding the way we learn is key in effectively understanding new concepts and excelling in school.  Dr.  Silverman argues that current classroom teaching practices are much more well suited toward the auditory-sequential learner than the visual-spatial learner.  Auditory learners are much more adept at memorization, repetition, following schedules and learning concepts in steps whereas the Visual learner is more suited to learn concepts all at once especially complex concepts and does poorly with step by step teaching methods, repetition and memorization.

This is quite the divide to try to span as an educator as Dr.  Silverman readily admits:

 “Many teachers try very hard to accommodate the various learning styles of their students, but this can be an overwhelming task, as some of the learning styles inventories and models are quite complicated.  As a former classroom teacher myself, I know that there are a limited number of hours in the day, and even the most dedicated teacher cannot plan for all the different learning styles and intelligences of his or her students.  Take heart!  There’s an easier solution.  The visual-spatial learner model is based on the newest discoveries in brain research about the different functions of the hemispheres. The left hemisphere is sequential, analytical, and time-oriented. The right hemisphere perceives the whole, synthesizes, and apprehends movement in space.  We only have two hemispheres, and we are doing an excellent job teaching one of them.  We need only become more aware of how to reach the other, and we will have happier students, learning more effectively. “  Linda Kreger Silverman. Ph.D from The Visual-Spatial Learner: An Introduction http://www.gifteddevelopment.com/Visual_Spatial_Learner/vsl.htm

Models, maps, computers, illustrations, diagrams are regularly employed in the classroom and are a great step to engage the visual learner.  A point to consider however is that 3D technology does the work of all of these traditional teaching tools simultaneously in addition to engaging the auditory-sequential learner at the same time.  From 3D Objects that users can manipulate easily and quickly, to full length videos that feature both in depth 3D demonstrations and depictions as well as detailed narration and summary sections 3D technology is perfectly suited reach all types of learners.

While not proven, studies that have shown, repeatedly, 3D produces a 33% increase in student retention.  This figure falls eerily in line with Dr.  Silverman’s findings that roughly 33% of students learn visually.  Could we be missing these learners entirely?  Does 3D technology bring visual learners out of the duldrums of route memorization?  This no doubt would be very difficult to prove, but the information does seem to point in that direction. 

3D Assumption #3

Assumption#3

“What do I do if I have students who can’t see 3D? 

 While students and parents should obviously listen to their doctors recommendations, the Epilepsy Foundation as well as the American Optometric Association have recently come out with their own 3D findings.

The American Optometric Association for example actually encourages the use of 3D for education, recognizing not only the educational benefits, but the potential health benefits as well.  In their study they’ve found that “as many as 1 in 4 US students may be unable to partake in 3D learning activities due to under performance of various aspects of the vision system that have gone undetected and untreated…if an individual experiences any of the 3 D’s of 3D- discomfort, dizziness and lack of depth perception—these signals can serve as an early indicator of some measure of vision impairment.  The good news is that, once identified, these conditions generally respond well to treatment.” 

Especially in the case of younger students, the American Optometric Association of America actually recommends using 3D in the classroom as a way of better detecting vision problems.   Check out eyehealth.org for more info as well as our 3D Resources page for videos.

 The Epilepsy Foundation published its findings on Photosensitivity and Seizures, as well as the most comment triggers that cause individual symptoms.  Approximately 3 percent of the 3 million Americans with Epilepsy are susceptible to photosensitivity induced seizures.  While a combination of factors is what usually help induce a seizure, “the frequency or speed of flashing light that is most likely to cause seizures…are between the frequency of 5 to 30 flashes per second (Hertz)”  DLP Link projectors are set at 120Hz for 3D viewing and each “pixel” or lens of the DLP Link glasses are turning on/off at a rate of 60 Hz making it highly unlikely that those suffering from photosensitivity would have problems enjoying their education with 3D technology.  See epilepsyfoundation.org for more info.

 Len Scrogan, Highly regarded digital learning architect dispels some other 3D Myths on his blog...future-talk.net          

3D Assumption #2

Assumption #2:

 “Why buy a 3D system when I can just buy a 3D TV or a 3D laptop and glasses?.  I can put it together myself”

While it is true that you can purchase a 3D computer and or video card and 3D glasses separately you can work on developing a solution yourself, viewing stereoscopic 3D successfully isn’t quite that simple.  There are a variety of players and programs that are needed in order to successfully play and view 3D Content.  In addition, loading 3D onto the associated computer isn’t the easiest feat, the files are quite large and each content company has their own licensing protocols to follow which can be tricky at times. 

Additionally there are problems that can crop up such as having the appropriate firmware for your 3D projector.  Just because you purchase a 3D projector doesn’t mean that the projector will play in 3D.  It could need a firmware upgrade, or it could need to be set with the proper refresh rate and image size among other key configurations that aren’t readily made clear upon purchase.

 When comparing various 3D and Interactive solutions available it can become quite overwhelming to decide on a particular option.  Not only are there choices in terms of hardware, but the growing 3D and interactive content market can make mulling over the options seem a virtually insurmountable task. 

While there are a few other options available on the market with content, the 3DAVRover is the only system that is a combination of all elements necessary for superior quality 3D, including content, all of which has been thoroughly researched, tested and configured by our staff who have years of experience in working with stereoscopic 3D solutions. 

There are no biases based on corporate alliances, just the best products, the best software, configured and thoroughly tested so that employing 3D in your classroom is as easy if not easier than using your interactive whiteboard. 

3D Assumption #1

Assumption#1

 “This is absolutely amazing.  I can see my students loving this, but there is just no way I can afford it”

In traveling across the country and speaking with hundreds of educators, this is a response we at AVRover hear very often.  What is more interesting is that if the conversation progresses further the typical assumption made in terms of price is usually at least double what the actual solution costs.  In reality a comprehensive 3D solution is quite affordable and can be used to present not just 3D but 2D and interactive content as well.

For less than 10,000 a school can get a 3D AVRover and share the technology between classrooms, whether it be 2D powerpoint presentations or 3D interactive lessons. 

Additionally 3D educational content can sometimes be purchased through curriculum funds.

See our How To Buy page for additional funding resources.

3D Myths Dispelled

3D Technology in education has really been growing beyond industry expectations.  But with so many educators adopting  3D for their classrooms there are still many out there who are saying no to 3D.  Why the divide?  With all of the case studies and large scale implementations around the country that prove without a doubt the dramatic impact  3D curriculum has on students’ understanding, retension and engagement, it might seem confusing as to why there isn’t more of a push in academia to embrace this revolutionary new technology.  Let’s look a bit closer at a few of the reasons why.

When it comes to 3D naysayers there tend to be two types.  There are the ones who ARE blown away with the 3D visual impact but assume that using 3D is something out of a sci-fi fantasy novel and therefore is completely cost prohibitive.   Others are hesitant to even try 3D because they have concerns for students that are unable to see 3D or those who might have a pre-existing condition that could be aggravated by being taught with 3D technology.  In the coming weeks we’ll endeavor to dispel some of these “3D Myths” and shed some light on the benefits of choosing 3D educational technology.

Here's some of the "Myths" we'll be discussing:

Assumption#1

“This is absolutely amazing.  I can see my students loving this, but there is just no way I can afford it”

Assumption #2:

“Why buy a 3D system when I can just buy a 3D TV or a 3D laptop and glasses? I can put it together myself”

Assumption#3 

“What do I do if I have students who can’t see 3D?"

Stay tuned...and feel free to share your thoughts on the use of 3D technology in education with us!

AVRover introduces our new Portable 3D Server at TI Ecosystem Summit

Texas Instruments’ DLP division held a 3D Ecosystem summit at their main headquarters in Richardson, Texas this week.  AVRover showed its 3D glasses, 3D content, the 3DAVRover as well as the new Portable 3D Server (AVRover Model P3DS).

 
The Portable 3D Server by AVRover has a 3D computer with available 3D content, built-in sound system with three speakers, lockable storage for the wireless keyboard and 3D glasses, and a retractable VGA cable to plug into the wall plate for your 3D-ready projector mounted in your classroom.  This system turns your 3D-ready projector into a complete 3D classroom.  Just roll it into the room, plug it in, turn it on and pass out the glasses.

For more information, visit our website at www.AVRover.com or call us at (800)724-0236.

With all of the talk about school budget woes, we have a technology solution that makes sense.  Sharing technology among two or more classrooms will save a tremendous amount of money.  There is nothing worse than having expensive technology in a classroom that is not being utilized.

An AVRover allows you to fully utilize your technology by sharing among two or more classrooms.  There is nothing more secure, that sets up as quickly, or has more uses than an AVRover.  It works with anything that needs a projected image and/or sound reinforcement.  Use it with a laptop, document camera, microphone, DVD, the internet, video conferencing, student response systems, and interactive technologies like the ONfinity, RoverPad, Point Draw and more.

Many people think the initial cost of an AVRover is high when compared to an installed projector, sound system, and other devices, but when you consider the fact that it is a complete cost, and a turnkey solution, then the value proposition is realized. Consider the other costs of an installation in a classroom: design, electrician, installation, wiring, mounts, wallplates, rack, security, etc. that are not considered when the choice needs to be made. 

The biggest cost is not using the technology.  Install technology in a classroom and let it sit idle for half the day and your real cost just doubled.  Sharing a portable solution is always going to be the most economical solution. 

How about obsolescence?  The AVRover is future-proof.  In a few years when a new projector is needed for whatever reason, brightness, resolution, connectivity, features - the AVRover's universal projector mount will allow virtually any new projector to be installed and provide another five years of service.  No worry about changing or even moving projectopr mounts and possibly lights or air conditioning vents. 

Finally, teachers want flexibility.  They may want to orient the classroom differently or work in small groups.  The AVRover easily works in any setting.  Just place it where needed and turn it on.

For more information, give us a call.  We can schedule a demo at your convenience.

AVRover excites attendees at NSTA with 3DAVRover and Designmate 3D Content

While sharing the booth with Designmate, AVRover showcased its portable 3DAVRover with 3D content and also Designmate's networkable 2D content.  We knew the 3D content was great.  The 2D content is quite good also.  Currently, the 2D content consists of 1200 video lessons and 500 simulations in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.  They contain videos, full text of the videos, quizzes, and some have simulations and links to appropriate websites. 

This product is great.   It sells for $6,000 and is loaded onto the school’s server.  It works really well with the AVRover SVS200s in the classrooms.   It will also work with existing rooms with projectors and sound systems.  Up to 50 client computers can access the content.  The science teachers ate it up.  AVRover will be talking more about this in the future.  Call us if you would like a demo at your school.

The 3D content consists of 200 stereoscopic videos, and is priced at $1,500.00.  It needs to be played on a 3D system - so the 3DAVRover, the complete portable 3D system, is the solution. 

3D in Education needs to be Portable

The new 3D technology that allows the 3D effect to come from a single DLP projector utilizing the DLP-Link Active Shutter Glasses has a few constraints that make a portable solution the only practical solution.

First of all, the projector has to be directly connected to the 3D computer to get the 3D effect to work.  Second, the 3D content is so robust that the videos cannot be streamed from a server.  Since the content must reside on the 3D computer that is connected directly to the projector, they all need to be in one place.  Finally, 3D is a special event, maybe students should experience 3D 2 or 3 times a week.  This being the case, the technology would be wasted if it were built into a room and the room was not used for 3D every class. 

The solution - put all the technology into a portable system and deliver it to the rooms that need it.  The portable system must be easy to set up, easy to use, secure, and configured correctly.  The solution is the 3DAVRover. 

A 3DAVRover with our AVRover 3D Glasses and AVRover's 3D Content (the best in the world) are ready now.  No one else has a solution even close to the AVRover 3D solution.  Call AVRover today to learn more about how to get your customers in 3D mode the right way.