LanSchool - Detailed Review
Education Tools
LanSchool - Product Overview
Primary Function
LanSchool is intended to help educators manage classroom activities, minimize distractions, and maximize teaching time. It enables teachers to monitor, communicate with, and guide students effectively, whether in a physical classroom or in remote learning settings.Target Audience
The primary target audience for LanSchool includes teachers, educators, school administrators, and IT specialists in educational institutions. It is suitable for schools and districts of all sizes, supporting both single classrooms and entire school systems.Key Features
Monitoring and Protection
LanSchool allows teachers to monitor student screens in real-time, using a thumbnail view or full-screen view to ensure students are on task. It also includes features like limiting web access and blanking screens to redirect student focus and maintain classroom discipline.Communication and Screen Sharing
The software facilitates class-wide collaboration through messaging features, enabling teacher-to-student, student-to-teacher, and teacher-to-classroom communication. Teachers can also broadcast their screens to all student devices, promoting easy and focused digital instruction.Device Management
LanSchool offers powerful tools for managing student devices, including the ability to push websites to all devices, lock devices, and monitor battery status to prevent unexpected shutdowns. It also allows for remote power on/off and software installation, making IT management more efficient.Co-Teaching and Collaboration
The software supports co-teaching by allowing multiple educators to share access and work together seamlessly. This feature is particularly useful for lead teachers, paraeducators, and school administrators.Student Engagement
Features like the “Raise Hand” function allow students to discreetly ask for help or signal completion of tasks without disrupting the class. Additionally, LanSchool supports the integration of generative AI tools, helping teachers guide responsible use and direct student energy into AI-driven assignments.Flexibility and Compatibility
LanSchool is compatible with a variety of devices, including Mac, Windows, Chromebooks, and mixed-device environments. It is available in both cloud-based (LanSchool Air) and on-premise (LanSchool Classic) versions, offering flexibility in deployment and management. By leveraging these features, LanSchool helps educators create a more engaged, safe, and productive learning environment, whether in the classroom or through remote learning. LanSchool - User Interface and Experience
User Interface
LanSchool’s interface is clear and easy to use, with a focus on minimizing the learning curve for both teachers and students. The Teacher Console is the central hub, where teachers can access various features such as real-time screen viewing, instant messaging, and website blocking. This console provides a straightforward layout, allowing teachers to quickly monitor student activity, identify potential distractions, and offer timely assistance.
Ease of Use
The software is generally easy to use, especially for those with some basic technical knowledge. The interface is intuitive, with clear instructions and a user-friendly design. However, the initial setup may require some technical expertise, particularly for configuring network settings and integrating with existing school systems. Schools with a robust IT infrastructure and staff comfortable with network management tend to find the implementation process straightforward.
User Experience
For teachers, LanSchool offers a seamless way to manage the classroom. They can discreetly monitor student screens, communicate through instant messaging, block distracting websites, and even remotely lock or restart student devices. These features help maintain student focus, reduce disruptions, and enhance classroom efficiency.
Students find the software unobtrusive during their learning process. They can silently send questions or request help through the messaging feature, and teachers can quickly respond. The software also supports various devices, including Chromebooks, ensuring that students across different platforms can engage with the learning environment without significant hurdles.
Key Features
- Real-Time Screen Viewing: Teachers can monitor student screens in real-time to ensure students are on task and provide immediate assistance if needed.
- Instant Messaging: Teachers can communicate with individual students or the entire class, enhancing classroom efficiency and reducing disruptions.
- Website and Application Blocking: Teachers can filter out distracting content to keep students engaged in the lesson.
- Remote Control: Teachers can remotely lock or restart student devices to address technical issues or manage disruptive behavior.
- Detailed Reporting: The software generates reports on student activity, providing valuable insights into student engagement and progress.
Overall, LanSchool’s user interface and features are designed to be accessible and effective, making it a valuable tool for educators to create a more focused and productive learning environment.
LanSchool - Key Features and Functionality
LanSchool Overview
LanSchool is a comprehensive classroom management software that offers a wide array of features to help educators manage and engage their students effectively. Here are the main features and how they work:
Monitoring and Protection
Real-Time Screen Viewing
Teachers can monitor student screens in real-time, either through a thumbnail view or a full-screen view of individual screens. This helps in identifying potential distractions and providing timely assistance.
Website and Application Blocking
Teachers can block specific websites and applications to maintain student focus during lessons and minimize off-task behavior.
Communication
Instant Messaging
Teachers can communicate with students individually or as a group through instant messaging. This allows for direct communication without disrupting the class.
Raise Hand Feature
Students can digitally raise their hands to ask for help or indicate they have finished a task, allowing teachers to address their needs discreetly.
Device Management
Remote Control
Teachers can remotely lock or restart student devices to address technical issues or manage disruptive behavior without interrupting the lesson.
Push Website
Teachers can launch the same website on all student devices to ensure everyone is on the same page, saving time and increasing focus.
Battery Status
Teachers can monitor the battery status of student devices in real-time to prevent unexpected shutdowns and reduce classroom disruptions.
Screen Sharing and Broadcasting
Screen Broadcasting
Teachers can broadcast their screens to all student devices, facilitating easy and focused digital instruction.
Snapshot
Teachers can save screenshots of student screens to showcase exceptional work or share examples of student progress during parent-teacher conferences.
Reporting and Analytics
Detailed Reports
LanSchool generates detailed reports on student activity, providing insights into student engagement and progress. These reports can inform teaching strategies and help tailor instruction to meet individual student needs.
Integration and Automation
Automated Rostering
LanSchool Air integrates with ClassLink and other systems to automate rostering, saving teachers time by ensuring class rosters are always up-to-date.
Co-Teaching
The software allows for shared access among lead teachers, paraeducators, and school administrators, creating a united classroom experience.
AI Integration
On-Task Monitoring
LanSchool has introduced an AI-based On-Task Monitoring feature, currently in beta. This feature leverages AI to help teachers guide digital learning by monitoring student engagement and focus in real-time.
Generative AI Guidance
LanSchool also provides guidance on the use of generative AI in the classroom, helping teachers to integrate this technology effectively and safely.
Hosting Options
LanSchool Air
This is a cloud-based solution that offers ease of use, automatic feature updates, and the ability to be used anywhere with internet access, making it ideal for distance and hybrid learning.
LanSchool Classic
This is a locally hosted solution that must be run from private, on-campus servers. It is chosen by schools that prefer more control over the hosting and can manage it within their IT infrastructure.
These features collectively help teachers to create a more focused, productive, and safe learning environment, while also streamlining classroom management and enhancing student engagement.
LanSchool - Performance and Accuracy
Evaluating the Performance and Accuracy of LanSchool
Evaluating the performance and accuracy of LanSchool in the education tools category, particularly in an AI-driven context, reveals several key strengths and some areas for improvement.
Performance
LanSchool is highly regarded for its ability to create a focused and productive learning environment. Here are some of its performance highlights:
- Real-Time Monitoring: LanSchool allows teachers to monitor student screens in real-time, which helps in identifying potential distractions and providing immediate assistance. This feature is crucial for maintaining student engagement and ensuring they stay on task.
- Website and Application Blocking: The software enables teachers to limit access to specific websites and applications, reducing digital distractions and ensuring students remain engaged in the lesson. This feature is particularly useful during tests and quizzes.
- Seamless Communication: LanSchool facilitates instant messaging between teachers and students, allowing for quick queries and announcements. This enhances classroom efficiency and reduces disruptions.
- Remote Control: Teachers can remotely lock or restart student devices, which is helpful in addressing technical issues or managing disruptive behavior without interrupting the lesson.
- Integration with Other Tools: LanSchool Air integrates with tools like Google Classroom, ClassLink, and Clever, making it easier for educators to manage class lists and sync courses.
Accuracy
In terms of accuracy, LanSchool provides several features that help teachers track student activity and progress accurately:
- Detailed Reports: The software generates detailed reports on student activity, providing valuable insights into student engagement and progress. These reports can inform teaching strategies and help tailor instruction to individual student needs.
- Screen Sharing and Monitoring: Teachers can view all student screens or individual ones, which gives them an accurate picture of how students are engaging with the lesson. This is especially beneficial in hybrid learning environments.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
While LanSchool offers many benefits, there are some limitations and areas where it could improve:
- Case Studies and Quantitative Data: There is a lack of publicly available case studies and quantitative data on the specific impact of LanSchool in individual schools. This is partly due to data privacy regulations, making it difficult to assess the software’s effectiveness through concrete case studies.
- Privacy Concerns: The absence of detailed case studies is also a result of stringent data privacy regulations. While this protects student data, it limits the availability of specific success metrics.
- Technical Requirements: Although LanSchool is designed for simplicity and ease of use, it still requires some technical setup and integration. This might pose challenges for schools with limited IT resources.
AI Integration
LanSchool is also beginning to address the integration of generative AI in the classroom:
- Guiding AI Use: LanSchool helps teachers guide the responsible use of generative AI tools, ensuring that students learn to use these tools effectively and responsibly. This includes monitoring AI-driven activities and directing them into educational assignments.
In summary, LanSchool performs well in enhancing classroom management, student engagement, and online safety. However, there is a need for more detailed case studies and quantitative data to fully assess its impact. The software’s ability to integrate with other tools and guide the use of generative AI adds to its value, but it must continue to balance these features with the need to protect student data and simplify technical requirements.
LanSchool - Pricing and Plans
Pricing Structure Overview
When considering the pricing structure of LanSchool, here are the key points to note:
Single SKU Pricing
LanSchool offers a simple and streamlined pricing model with two scalable license options, all encompassed in a single SKU. This means you pay one price for the license, and there are no additional fees if you decide to change your hosting plans.
Licensing Options
- LanSchool provides both cloud-based and locally hosted solutions, allowing flexibility based on your school or district’s technical environment. However, specific tiered pricing details are not explicitly outlined on the website.
Free Options
- One of the notable free options is the 30-day trial for both LanSchool Classic and LanSchool Air. This trial allows you to test the software on all Mac, Windows, and Chromebook devices, giving you a hands-on experience with its features.
Hardware and Software Bundles
- LanSchool offers a significant incentive through its partnership with Lenovo. Every qualifying Lenovo education device comes with a complimentary 1-year LanSchool license, which includes support and upgrades for 12 full months. This can be a cost-effective way to integrate LanSchool into your classroom technology.
Purchasing Flexibility
- You can purchase LanSchool solutions either directly from the company or through their extensive network of channel partners, providing flexibility in how you acquire the software.
Conclusion
While the website does not provide detailed tiered pricing structures or feature comparisons between different plans, it emphasizes a simple and scalable pricing model that adapts to your school’s or district’s needs. For more specific pricing details, you may need to contact LanSchool directly or explore their purchasing options further.
LanSchool - Integration and Compatibility
Integrations
LanSchool supports several key integrations that streamline classroom management and reduce the administrative burden on teachers:ClassLink Integration
LanSchool Air has integrated with ClassLink to provide automated rostering. This integration allows classes to be synced automatically from the district’s student information system, saving teachers time in updating their class rosters.
Clever Secure Sync
For LanSchool Classic, the software integrates with Clever to sync class rosters from the district’s Student Information System (SIS). This ensures that classes and student lists are updated automatically, eliminating the need for manual updates.
Google Meet and Microsoft Teams
LanSchool Air can be used in conjunction with Google Meet or Microsoft Teams for synchronous distance learning, facilitating online and hybrid learning environments.
Platform and Device Compatibility
LanSchool is highly compatible across different platforms and devices:Operating Systems
LanSchool works on Windows, Mac, and Chromebooks, making it suitable for mixed device environments. This flexibility allows schools to use the software regardless of the devices they have in place.
Hosting Models
There are two versions of LanSchool:
- LanSchool Air: This is a cloud-based version that can be used anywhere with internet access, making it ideal for distance and hybrid learning.
- LanSchool Classic: This is a locally hosted version that must be run from private, on-campus servers. It is preferred by schools that want more control over how the software is hosted.
Device Management
LanSchool can be installed on both school-provided devices and personal devices (BYOD). For Chromebooks, LanSchool is only accessible when logging in with a school-managed email address. For personal devices, schools have procedures to ensure appropriate usage, such as requiring student approval for screen monitoring and defining in-school hours.
Installation and Setup
The setup process for LanSchool is designed to be straightforward:LanSchool Classic
Requires local administrator permissions for installation on Windows and Mac devices. The setup involves downloading the software, planning the implementation, setting up the LanSchool Connection Service (LCS), and installing the student and teacher clients. Detailed guides are available for different deployment models, including static labs, mobile carts, one-to-one, and BYOD environments.
LanSchool Air
Being cloud-based, it offers ease of getting started with automatic feature updates and does not require local hosting or extensive IT setup.
In summary, LanSchool’s integrations with tools like ClassLink and Clever, along with its compatibility across various platforms and devices, make it a comprehensive and user-friendly classroom management solution.
LanSchool - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support
For assistance, LanSchool provides multiple contact channels depending on your location and the specific product you are using:North America
You can reach out to the support team for LanSchool Air at support@lanschoolair.com or call 833-801-5470, available Monday through Friday from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST (excluding holidays). For LanSchool Classic, contact support@lanschool.com or call 877-394-0443, available Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST (excluding holidays).
APAC
For LanSchool Air, email support-ap@lanschoolair.com, and for LanSchool Classic, email support-ap@lanschool.com. Support is available Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM IST (UTC 5:30), excluding holidays.
LATAM
For both LanSchool Air and LanSchool Classic, you can email support-la@lanschoolair.com or support-la@lanschool.com, respectively, or call 919-279-9330. Support is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM ART (UTC-03), excluding holidays.
Additional Resources
LanSchool provides a wealth of resources to help educators get the most out of their software:User Guides
Detailed guides are available for both LanSchool Air and LanSchool Classic. These guides cover how to create an account, set up a classroom, and facilitate learning.
Video Libraries
There are video libraries for both LanSchool Air and LanSchool Classic that include introductions to the software, installation and configuration tutorials, and how to leverage the features in your classroom.
Quick Start Guides
These guides help teachers quickly get up to speed on the features of both LanSchool Air and LanSchool Classic.
Installation Guides
Step-by-step installation guides are provided for LanSchool Classic, including instructions on installing the software, configuring the network, and setting preferences.
Technical Support
You can submit a ticket or chat with the support team for immediate help. This option is available for both LanSchool Air and LanSchool Classic.
Events and Webinars
LanSchool hosts various events and webinars on topics such as getting started with the software, industry thought leadership, and how to use the features effectively.
Customer Resource Center
This center offers a range of resources, including example template letters for parents to explain how LanSchool is used in the classroom, and the option to leave feedback or get in touch with the support team.
These resources are designed to ensure that educators have all the tools and support they need to effectively manage their classrooms and enhance student learning.
LanSchool - Pros and Cons
Advantages of LanSchool
LanSchool offers several significant advantages that make it a valuable tool for educators:Enhanced Classroom Management
LanSchool allows teachers to monitor student screens in real-time, enabling them to quickly address disruptive behaviors and ensure students remain on task. This feature is particularly useful in both traditional and hybrid learning environments, where teachers can view and manage student devices regardless of their location.Improved Student Engagement
The software provides tools for immediate feedback and personalized support, facilitating a more engaging learning experience. Teachers can track student progress and adapt their teaching strategies accordingly, leading to increased student participation and understanding.Increased Teacher Productivity
LanSchool simplifies many administrative tasks, freeing up valuable time for teachers to focus on lesson planning and individualized instruction. The intuitive interface makes it easy to learn and use, even for those new to classroom management software.Online Safety and Content Filtering
LanSchool includes features like Lenovo NetFilter, a cloud-based and AI-driven content filtering solution that provides real-time protection for student devices. This helps ensure a safe and appropriate online learning environment by blocking harmful content and promoting responsible digital citizenship.Collaboration and Screen Sharing
The software offers advanced collaboration tools, including a chat feature and group collaboration capabilities. Teachers can also share their screens with students, helping to focus attention and streamline lesson delivery.Compatibility and Scalability
LanSchool is compatible with various operating systems such as Mac, Windows, and Chromebooks, making it versatile for different technical environments. It can be implemented through cloud-based or local hosting, allowing schools to scale their solutions as needed.Disadvantages of LanSchool
While LanSchool offers many benefits, there are some limitations and considerations:Limited Public Case Studies
Due to data privacy regulations, such as FERPA in the US, detailed case studies and quantifiable data on LanSchool’s impact are scarce. This makes it challenging to find concrete, measurable results from specific schools.Privacy Concerns
Although LanSchool enhances online safety, the use of such software raises privacy concerns. The collection and analysis of student data must be handled carefully to comply with ethical standards and data protection regulations.Potential Learning Curve
While LanSchool is generally user-friendly, some teachers might still need time to get accustomed to its features, especially if they are new to classroom management software. However, the software is designed to be easy to learn, with some users reporting they can learn key features within a short period.Cost Considerations
LanSchool, like other comprehensive classroom management solutions, may come with a cost that could be prohibitive for some schools or districts with limited budgets. It is important to compare pricing plans and consider the value it brings against the cost.In summary, LanSchool is a powerful tool for classroom management, offering significant benefits in terms of student engagement, teacher productivity, and online safety. However, it is important to consider the limitations related to privacy, the availability of case studies, and the potential cost.
LanSchool - Comparison with Competitors
When Comparing LanSchool to Other Education Tools
When comparing LanSchool to other education tools in the classroom management and AI-driven product category, several key features and alternatives stand out.
Unique Features of LanSchool
- Real-Time Screen Viewing: LanSchool allows teachers to monitor student screens in real-time, enabling them to identify potential distractions and provide immediate assistance. This feature promotes accountability and helps in maintaining a focused learning environment.
- Communication and Messaging: Teachers can use instant messaging to communicate with individual students or the entire class, enhancing classroom efficiency and reducing disruptions.
- Website and Application Blocking: LanSchool enables teachers to block distracting websites and applications, ensuring students remain engaged in the lesson. This feature is particularly useful for minimizing off-task behavior.
- Remote Control: Teachers can remotely lock or restart student devices, which is useful for addressing technical issues or managing disruptive behavior without interrupting the lesson.
- File Transfer and Reporting: The software allows for file transfer between teachers and students, and it generates detailed reports on student activity, providing valuable insights into student engagement and progress.
Potential Alternatives
DreamClass
While DreamClass is more focused on overall class and program management, it does offer features like student registration, progress tracking, and communication tools. However, it lacks the real-time screen monitoring and remote control features that LanSchool provides.
Gradelink
Gradelink is a comprehensive student information system that includes features like attendance management, report cards, and scheduling. It does not offer the same level of classroom device management and real-time monitoring as LanSchool. Gradelink is more suited for administrative tasks rather than direct classroom management.
Other Classroom Management Tools
Tools like NetSupport School and Impero Education Pro offer similar classroom management features such as screen monitoring, application blocking, and remote control. These alternatives might be worth considering based on specific school or district needs and preferences.
AI Integration
LanSchool has begun to integrate features that guide the use of generative AI in the classroom, such as screen monitoring to ensure appropriate use of AI tools and the ability to limit web access to authorized AI tools. This is a unique aspect that sets it apart from some of its competitors.
Comparison with AI-Driven Education Tools
While LanSchool is primarily a classroom management tool, there are other AI-driven education tools that focus more on personalized learning and adaptive education:
- Smart Sparrow: An adaptive e-learning platform that uses AI to personalize learning and provide real-time feedback. It does not offer classroom management features but is excellent for personalized learning experiences.
- Woot Math and DreamBox: These platforms use AI to personalize math lessons and provide real-time feedback. They are specialized in math education and do not include the broader classroom management features of LanSchool.
- GradeSlam and TutorMe: These are AI-powered tutoring platforms that provide personalized learning experiences but do not include the classroom device management features that LanSchool offers.
Conclusion
In summary, LanSchool stands out for its comprehensive classroom management capabilities, including real-time screen monitoring, communication tools, and remote device control. While other tools may offer specialized AI-driven learning experiences, LanSchool’s unique features make it a valuable tool for maintaining a focused and productive learning environment.
LanSchool - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about LanSchool
What is LanSchool and what does it do?
LanSchool is a classroom management software that helps teachers monitor, control, and engage with students’ devices within a classroom network. It allows teachers to view student screens in real-time, communicate through instant messaging, block distracting websites, and manage files. This helps in creating a more focused and productive learning environment.How does LanSchool help teachers monitor student activity?
LanSchool provides a real-time screen viewing feature that allows teachers to discreetly monitor student screens. This helps in identifying potential distractions or assisting students who are struggling with a task. Teachers can also use the screen monitoring feature to ensure students are using tools appropriately, especially when working with generative AI tools.What communication features does LanSchool offer?
LanSchool facilitates seamless communication between teachers and students through its instant messaging function. Teachers can address individual student queries or provide announcements to the entire class. This feature enhances classroom efficiency and reduces disruptions. Additionally, co-teachers can use the same LanSchool dashboard to stay on the same page.How can LanSchool help in maintaining student focus during lessons?
LanSchool offers website and application blocking capabilities, allowing teachers to filter out distracting content and ensure students remain engaged in the lesson. Teachers can also set time limits on specific applications or websites to keep students focused during class time.Can LanSchool be used to manage technical issues or disruptive behavior?
Yes, LanSchool provides remote control functionalities that allow teachers to remotely lock or restart student devices. This is useful for addressing technical issues or managing disruptive behavior without interrupting the flow of the lesson.How does LanSchool support collaboration among students?
LanSchool enables teachers to create groups where students can work together on projects or assignments. It also offers a screen-sharing feature that allows students to present their work directly from their devices to the rest of the class, promoting active participation and a collaborative learning environment.What reporting and assessment tools does LanSchool provide?
LanSchool generates detailed reports on student activity, providing valuable insights into student engagement and progress. Teachers can use this data to inform teaching strategies and tailor instruction to meet individual student needs. Some versions of LanSchool also integrate assessment tools, such as quizzes and polls, to gauge student understanding.Is LanSchool compatible with different types of devices and hosting options?
Yes, LanSchool is compatible with Mac, Windows, Chromebooks, and mixed device environments. It can be implemented through cloud-based or local hosting, making it flexible and adaptable to various technical environments.How can schools purchase LanSchool, and are there any special offers?
LanSchool offers flexible purchasing options, including direct purchase and through channel partners. Schools can also benefit from hardware and software bundles, such as getting a free LanSchool license with the purchase of eligible Lenovo devices.Is there a free trial or demo available for LanSchool?
Yes, LanSchool offers a free trial, allowing schools and educators to try the software before committing to a purchase. This helps in evaluating whether LanSchool meets their specific needs and classroom environment. LanSchool - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of LanSchool
LanSchool is a comprehensive classroom management software that offers a wide range of benefits for educators, students, and school administrators. Here’s a detailed look at who would benefit most from using it and an overall recommendation.Key Benefits
- Real-Time Monitoring: LanSchool allows teachers to monitor student computer activity in real-time, ensuring students stay on task and preventing access to inappropriate websites. This feature minimizes disruptions and keeps students focused on their academic tasks.
- Remote Assistance: The software enables teachers to provide immediate help to students facing technical issues or assignment challenges, enhancing the learning experience and reducing frustration.
- Assessment Tools: LanSchool includes tools for tracking student progress and identifying areas needing improvement. This data-driven approach helps teachers personalize their instruction to better meet the needs of each student.
- Collaboration and Interaction: The software promotes collaboration among students through features like virtual groups, chat messaging, and screen sharing. This fosters a collaborative learning environment where students can exchange ideas and learn from one another.
- Classroom Control: LanSchool allows teachers to control student access to specific applications or websites, ensuring that learning remains the priority. It also offers features like blank screen functionality and the ability to limit printing and USB drive use.
- Safety and Security: The software helps create a safer online environment by blocking access to inappropriate websites and monitoring student activity. It also includes features like keystroke monitoring and internet history records to prevent cyberbullying and ensure student safety.
Who Would Benefit Most
- Teachers: LanSchool is particularly beneficial for teachers as it simplifies classroom management, allows for real-time monitoring, and provides tools for remote assistance and assessment. These features help teachers maintain a focused learning environment and provide personalized instruction.
- Students: Students benefit from the collaborative features, immediate support, and the ability to work on projects together. The software also helps students stay on task and engaged, which can lead to improved learning outcomes.
- School Administrators: Administrators can benefit from the centralized reporting, device management, and the ability to ensure compliance with data protection regulations such as GDPR. LanSchool’s features help in managing digital resources efficiently and maintaining a safe learning environment.