A while back, I reviewed EquatIO , a tool created by TextHelper John McGowan . Since then, I am so happy to see how this tool has grown and flourished, and how it’s being showcased from powerful educators like Alice Keeler.
Before we go into the new features of EquatIO, I have to be honest. Math and I have this thing. We like each other alright. We get along in some cases. Let’s just say we peacefully coexist. I’ve never viewed myself as strong mathematically speaking, and that’s okay. However, if I had access to a tool such as EquatIO when I was a student, math and I would have a completely different relationship.
Since my last review, EquatIO has not only evolved, but has simply gotten better. The tool is more intuitive and responsive to speech to text and handwriting recognition. The integration of Desmos graphing is sheer genius, as it brings an element of familiarity for students that have used Desmos as a stand-alone application. The tool itself inherently supports the UDL guidelines. by providing students and teachers with multiple means of expression, action and expression, and engagement. What has really piqued my interest is the development and roll-out of EquatIO Mobile, which is free until April 11, 2018. EquatIO Mobile opens a whole new level of accessibility for students who previously are unable to access math via paper and pencil alone.
The above video from TextHelp describes how to use EquatIO mobile. After giving the video some time to sink in, I had to try EquatIO mobile for myself. When you are in the EquatIO workspace and you click on the mobile icon, a QR code appears. Them, use your mobile device to scan the QR code, which will link to the EquatIO workspace in Safari on OS or Google Chrome on Android. From your mobile device you can take a picture, draw, or use speech to text to insert math. It will sync to the live google doc or form that you have opened. It’s truly amazing, and gives students and teachers a really smart way to integrate math with technology in an intentional manner.
Of course, testing it myself is not enough. I had to try it with some students, and had the opportunity to do that this morning. We covered the basics of EquatIO, as well as EquatIO mobile. Their initial feedback was nothing short of amazement. It was a light bulb moment for these students who instantly saw the value of doing math in a way that made sense for them. After sharing EquatIO and experimenting a little, the students feedback continued to be extremely positive, Furthermore, they began to make meaningful connections to how they could use EquatIO and EquatIO mobile in their current class. Our collaborative plan is to use EquatIO over the next two weeks. We will meet again for further feedback and analysis of how EquatIO and EquatIO mobile works in a manner that makes sense for them.
I am so excited about the upgrades and metamorphosis of EquatIO mobile. It is more than just making math digital. EquatIO and EquatIO mobile truly makes math ACCESSIBLE to students who may not perform well with traditional pencil and paper. I am looking forward to seeing how EquatIO continues to be intentionally used with students and staff in our district.
