Inspiration Software and Fourier Systems Partner to Combine the Power of Visual Learning With One-to-One Computing

 
 

Inspiration Will be Preloaded on Nova5000 Student Computing Device

 

PORTLAND, OR, & AUSTIN, TX — July 11, 2006
Inspiration Software®, the leader in visual thinking and learning, and Fourier Systems, Inc., a leading provider of one-to-one computing and science solutions for the education market, today announced a partnership that will combine the power of visual learning with one-to-one computing. As a result of this collaboration, Inspiration Software will develop a Windows CE version of its flagship product, Inspiration®, that will ship preloaded on all Fourier Systems’ Nova5000 portable wireless computing devices, beginning in the 2006-2007 school year.

 

"At Inspiration Software, we are committed to ensuring that all students and teachers have access to visual learning software on any device they choose," said Mona Westhaver, president, Inspiration Software. "This new relationship with Fourier Systems means that teachers and students using the Nova5000 will combine the power of visual learning with these innovative computing devices designed to meet the unique needs of K-12 education."

 

Inspiration was developed based on proven visual learning methodologies that help students think, learn and achieve. Students in grades 6-12 use the software to develop a deeper understanding of difficult concepts and build stronger critical thinking skills.

 

Educators agree that visual learning is one of the best methods for teaching thinking skills. Using visual learning techniques — associating ideas, concepts, data and other information with images and graphic representations — students are better able to focus on meaning, reorganize and group similar ideas, identify misconceptions, analyze information and use their visual memory.

 

"Providing students with personal computing devices allows teachers to integrate more project-based, hands-on instruction into the curriculum," said Tom Fitzgerald, chief executive officer, Fourier Systems, Inc. "Now, through our partnership with Inspiration Software, teachers using the Nova5000 can take one-to-one computing to the next level by integrating visual learning instructional strategies across the curriculum."

 

In an effort to elevate the standard of education across the curriculum and especially in science and math classrooms, Fourier Systems developed the Nova5000, an affordable, wireless computing device. Weighing just over two pounds, the Nova5000 is an instant on/instant off device so no instructional time is lost booting up or shutting down the computer. Its long battery life meets the needs of a full school day.

 

The features of Nova5000 make the device versatile for use in all kinds of learning environments at school and home. The Nova5000 is Web-ready, and its flexible hardware design includes USB and Ethernet ports, microphone port, speaker, and four sensor sockets that support more than 65 science sensors for experimentation and data collection.

 

For more information about Inspiration, visit www.inspiration.com, and for more information about the Nova5000, visit www.fourier-sys.com/nova5000.

 

About Inspiration Software, Inc.
Recognized as the leader in visual thinking and learning, Inspiration Software, Inc.'s award-winning software tools, Inspiration, Kidspiration® and InspireData®, are based on proven visual learning methodologies that help students think, learn and achieve. With the powerful combination of visual learning and technology, students in grades K-12 learn to clarify thoughts, organize and analyze information, integrate new knowledge and think critically. Founded more than 20 years ago by Donald Helfgott and Mona Westhaver, today the company's visual learning software tools are used by more than 15 million students and teachers worldwide.

About Fourier Systems, Inc.
Established in 1989, Fourier is a world leader in the manufacture and distribution of compact portable data logging devices and accessories for the education market. The company's science kits continue to push the standards of science education higher, now in over 30 countries around the world. With the wide range of sensors, user-friendly software and relevant curriculum material, Fourier’s products demonstrate a commitment to high quality. Fourier has earned accolades both nationally and internationally, including the Worlddidac award for the EcoLog™ and ExperiNet™. For more information, visit www.fourier-sys.com or phone 866-352-6994.