RGS expands education portfolio with Wi-Fi learning system for Windows

RGS, a business unit of Avnet, Inc. (NYSE: AVT), today introduced the RGS Wi-Fi 1:1 Learning System for Windows, a new high-performance digital learning solution compatible with Microsoft Office, Office 365 and education applications available through Microsoft Corp.

Each RGS Wi-Fi 1:1 Learning System for Windows includes a device, accessories and supporting services for set up, warranty management and call center support. The devices are available in two form factors: traditional laptop and 2-in-1 tablet with detachable keyboard. Users can access supplemental content via a learning management system or directly from a number of digital content publishers. The systems meet the content requirements of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC), Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) and the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA).

RGS’s digital education portfolio targets the growing need among school districts today to make the connection between technology in the classroom and learning efficacy more effective. Digital learning is a core element of the 21st Century classroom, a new model in education designed to make our nation’s schools more competitive, and improve the education experience by making it personal and dynamic. RGS helps schools develop a cost-effective and flexible end-to-end learning program including hardware, educational content and strategic services, including professional development, which helps maximize instruction time.

“We recognize that most school districts are pre-established with a specific software platform; adding a Windows-based solution to our portfolio enables us to provide options that fit within the districts’ existing infrastructure, while also delivering the additional services, systems, curriculum and requirements that they want and need,” said Scott MacDonald, vice president and general manager, RGS. “In addition, RGS believes that to fulfill the promise of technology in education, a solution must go beyond the hardware. The RGS digital learning systems provide complete full-featured devices, as well as a comprehensive range of training and professional development options and modular classroom support such as learning management system, classroom management system, mobile device management, web filtering content and related teaching resources including ‘gamification’ applications.”

To facilitate deployment, RGS offers professional development services including live sessions conducted in groups or train-the-trainer models, as well as online resources, professional learning communities (PLC) and follow-on coaching sessions.

“Schools across the country are turning to technology to transform the traditional classroom into an interactive and dynamic digital learning environment, though the process has proven challenging for many educators,” said Margo Day, vice president, U.S. Education, Microsoft Corp. “Combining the familiarity and ease-of-use of the Windows platform with RGS’ high-performance digital learning system can facilitate this transition and enable educators and students alike to benefit from a technology-enabled classroom.”