One of the best parts of my work is to try new tools to see if they will help our students and staff. Well, I have just finished familiarizing myself with and evaluating a great new tool called EquatIO.
From TextHelper John McGowan (@jmacattak), EquatIO is super cool. Unlike its Google Docs add-on cousin g(Math), EquatIO works with Google Docs and Google Forms to give a more accessible math experience. Having a touchscreen Chromebook makes for even more fun!
EquatIO is more than just an equation editor. The main features of EquatIO are handwriting recognition, prediction, and dictation. It allows the user a different mode of access in creating mathematical expressions, solving mathematical equations, and creating accessible math opportunities for students with unique learning challenges. Equations seem less daunting. To have the ability to handwrite and convert an equation or mathematical expression to text is pretty cool, but to be able to dictate or have EquatIO predict the expression helps to reduce or eliminate barriers to math that often exist due to disability, impairment, or mismatch of curriculum to learning style.
Don’t just take my word for it- see how EquatIO can work in Google Docs:
Or Google Forms:
Check out how handwriting recognition works:
EquatIO is currently available on the Chrome Web Store. Try it to see how EquatIO can be used in creating accessible tests and quizzes, assignments, and how it can be used with students who present with unique learning challenges!
***UPDATE*** Check out the NEW features of EquatIO! EquatIO is FREE for teachers and is integrated with Desmos! Brilliant!
Want to learn more? Please call me at (207) 467-5850.
