NetSupport School - Detailed Review
Education Tools
NetSupport School - Product Overview
Introduction to NetSupport School
NetSupport School is a leading classroom management software solution, specifically designed to support teachers in managing and enhancing the learning environment in schools, colleges, and training institutions.Primary Function
The primary function of NetSupport School is to provide teachers with a comprehensive set of tools to instruct, monitor, and interact with students. This includes delivering lesson content, monitoring student activity, and ensuring student focus and engagement.Target Audience
The target audience for NetSupport School is educators, including teachers and trainers, as well as IT technicians and administrators in educational settings.Key Features
Classroom Management
- NetSupport School allows teachers to monitor and control student PCs, ensuring students stay on task. Features include screen monitoring, application and internet metering, and the ability to lock or block specific applications and websites.
Assessment and Collaboration
- The software includes a range of assessment tools such as the Question and Answer module, which supports various questioning styles, peer assessment, and gameshow-style quizzes. It also features a custom Test Designer and instant Student Surveys to electronically assess student attainment.
Interaction and Engagement
- Teachers can engage students through real-time presentation and annotation tools, as well as tools for launching websites and applications directly from the teacher’s console. The software also supports silent help requests and keyboard monitoring to ensure student safety.
Content Distribution and Management
- NetSupport School enables teachers to distribute lesson content, hand out and collect work, and manage printers centrally, reducing paper waste and unauthorized printing.
Environmental and eSafety Features
- The software includes features to manage power consumption, set power management policies, and integrate with NetSupport Protect to shield computers from unwanted changes and control access to removable media. It also helps in monitoring pupils’ online behavior and educating them about internet safety.
Multi-Platform Support
- NetSupport School works across various platforms, including Windows, Google Chrome OS, and supports the latest browser technologies, ensuring compatibility with different devices and operating systems.
Teacher and Technician Tools
- The software offers a dedicated technician console for network monitoring and a new native Teacher App for Windows 10, which includes features like sharing lesson details, student register, and remote launching of Office 365 apps.
NetSupport School - User Interface and Experience
User Interface of NetSupport School
The user interface of NetSupport School is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, catering to various needs and preferences of educators.User Interface Modes
NetSupport School offers three distinct modes for viewing the user interface: Advanced, Intermediate, and Easy. This flexibility allows teachers to choose the level of functionality that best suits their teaching style and the specific needs of their class.Advanced Mode
Provides full access to all features and functions, making it ideal for experienced users who need comprehensive control over classroom management and instruction.Intermediate Mode
Offers access to the primary features and frequently used functions. This mode is a balance between ease of use and functionality, making it suitable for most teaching scenarios. It includes features such as viewing students, setting web access levels, logging in and out students, and using the chat function.Easy Mode
Focuses on a limited set of essential classroom management features, ensuring that teachers can maintain control over the class with minimal complexity.Ease of Use
NetSupport School is praised for its ease of use and intuitive design. The interface is structured in a way that makes it easy for teachers to find and use the necessary tools quickly. The software’s user-friendly nature is a significant differentiator from other similar products, as it does not require extensive training to get started.Key Features and Tools
The interface includes several key features that enhance teaching and classroom management:Screen Sharing and Control
Teachers can view and control students’ screens in real-time, which is useful for monitoring and assisting students.Internet and Application Management
Teachers can block internet access or restrict specific applications to maintain focus during lessons.Virtual Whiteboard
A tool for interactive teaching and collaboration.Feedback and Well-being Options
Teachers can gauge students’ confidence and well-being through quick surveys and feedback tools.Student Register and Monitoring
Features like displaying student user names, photos, and alert levels help teachers keep track of their students’ activities and needs.Customization and Settings
The user interface settings allow for significant customization to meet individual preferences and accessibility needs. Teachers can choose to display student user names, photos, and adjust the theme and colors of the interface. Additional settings include options for saving student history, showing restricted website icons, and displaying wireless and battery status.Overall User Experience
The overall user experience of NetSupport School is positive, with users appreciating its reliability, performance, and productivity-enhancing features. The software is trusted by educators for its ability to save time and enhance classroom management, making it a valuable tool in educational settings. The intuitive design ensures that teachers can focus on teaching rather than struggling with the software, thereby enhancing engagement and effectiveness in the classroom. NetSupport School - Key Features and Functionality
NetSupport School Overview
NetSupport School is a comprehensive classroom management tool that offers a variety of features to support teaching, learning, and student assessment. Here are the main features and how they work:
Classroom Monitoring and Control
NetSupport School allows teachers to monitor student screens in real-time, enabling them to keep track of what students are doing on their devices. This feature helps maintain classroom discipline and ensures students stay focused on the lesson.
Random Student Selection
Teachers can use the random student selection feature to engage students randomly, promoting active participation and reducing the likelihood of students feeling left out or overlooked.
Q&A Mode
The Q&A mode enables teachers to pose questions to the class and receive instant feedback from students. This feature facilitates interactive learning and helps teachers gauge student comprehension in real-time.
Survey Mode
Teachers can conduct surveys to gather feedback from students on various topics, such as the lesson content or teaching methods. This helps in assessing student satisfaction and making necessary adjustments to the teaching approach.
Feedback, Wellbeing, and Reward Options
NetSupport School includes tools for providing feedback, monitoring student wellbeing, and offering rewards. These features help in motivating students and ensuring their emotional and academic needs are met.
Assessment Features
The software offers several assessment tools, including the ability to conduct tests and quizzes directly through the platform. Teachers can also use the system to distribute and collect assignments, making the assessment process more efficient.
Integration with Other Systems
NetSupport School, particularly through its classroom.cloud solution, integrates with Student Information Systems (SIS) via ClassLink. This integration allows teachers to access their lesson details, student rosters, and other relevant data seamlessly, saving time and enhancing the efficiency of lesson preparation.
AI Integration
While the specific AI-driven features of NetSupport School are not extensively detailed in the available sources, the company does engage with AI in education through other initiatives. For example, NetSupport hosts webinars on AI in education, focusing on ethical and effective AI integration, training staff, and rethinking assessment and learning strategies. These webinars suggest that NetSupport is exploring and promoting the responsible use of AI to enhance teaching and learning experiences, although the direct integration of AI into NetSupport School itself is not explicitly outlined.
Conclusion
In summary, NetSupport School is a versatile tool that helps teachers manage the classroom, engage students, and assess their learning effectively. Its features are designed to streamline teaching processes, improve student engagement, and ensure a more productive learning environment.
NetSupport School - Performance and Accuracy
Performance of NetSupport School
NetSupport School is a comprehensive classroom management tool that has received positive feedback for its performance in educational settings.Monitoring and Control
One of the key strengths of NetSupport School is its ability to monitor and control student activities in real-time. Teachers can view student screens, monitor internet and application use, and control keyboard and mouse inputs. This feature helps in maintaining class discipline and ensuring students stay focused on their tasks.Real-Time Interaction
The software allows teachers to interact with students individually or as a class through messaging, chat sessions, and screen sharing. This real-time interaction enhances the teaching experience and enables teachers to provide immediate feedback and assistance.Lesson Management
NetSupport School facilitates effective lesson planning and review. Teachers can plan activities, provide personalized journals for students, and conduct tests with auto-marking features. The Student Journal feature captures lesson details, teacher notes, and student activities, making it easier for students to review material and for teachers to assess student progress.Engagement and Feedback
The tool includes features to engage students actively, such as polls, surveys, and question-and-answer sessions. These features help teachers gauge student comprehension and adjust their teaching methods accordingly.Accuracy
The accuracy of NetSupport School is generally high, especially in terms of monitoring and recording student activities. Here are a few points:Record Keeping
The software accurately records student attendance, internet usage, application activity, and keyboard inputs. This data is useful for tracking student behavior and performance over time.Test and Assessment
The auto-marking feature for tests ensures accurate and immediate feedback, reducing the time teachers spend on grading and allowing them to focus more on teaching.Limitations and Areas for Improvement
While NetSupport School is highly regarded, there are some areas where it falls short:Initial Setup
The initial setup process can be complex and time-consuming, especially for installations outside of a domain environment. Users have reported needing to configure settings carefully to get the software up and running smoothly.Interface Issues
Some users have found the interface, particularly after updates, to be overwhelming or difficult to navigate. For example, stopping the exhibition of the teacher’s screen can be tricky to figure out.Specific Feature Requests
Users have suggested improvements such as the ability to block in-application internet access and better integration with certain devices like Chromebooks (though this has been addressed in recent updates).Occasional Technical Issues
There have been reports of occasional issues with computers not showing up in the teacher console, requiring restarts to resolve the problem.In summary, NetSupport School performs well in terms of monitoring, control, and interaction within the classroom, but it has some limitations related to setup, interface usability, and specific feature requests. Overall, it remains a valuable tool for educators looking to manage and enhance their teaching environments effectively.
NetSupport School - Pricing and Plans
Pricing Structure Overview
The pricing structure for NetSupport School is not straightforward and does not follow a standard tiered model. Here are the key points to consider:
Custom Pricing
NetSupport School does not offer predefined pricing tiers or plans. Instead, the pricing is custom and based on the specific requirements of your organization. You need to fill out a pricing form on their website to receive a quote that is tailored to your needs.
No Free Plan
NetSupport School does not provide a free plan. There is no option for a free version of the software.
Features and Capabilities
While the pricing is custom, the software itself includes a range of features such as classroom management, internet usage monitoring, attendance tracking, assessment management, file sharing, and collaboration tools. These features are designed to support both academic and corporate environments.
Installation and Deployment
The software can be installed in various configurations, including Tutor, Student, and IT Technician setups. It supports multiple platforms, including Windows, Chromebooks, and Android tablets. The deployment can be managed through different methods, including IP address ranges, Windows Domains, and network views.
Conclusion
In summary, to get accurate pricing for NetSupport School, you must contact the vendor directly and provide details about your organization’s specific needs. There are no standard pricing tiers or free options available.
NetSupport School - Integration and Compatibility
NetSupport School Overview
NetSupport School is a versatile classroom management software that integrates seamlessly with various tools and supports a wide range of platforms and devices, making it a comprehensive solution for educational institutions.
Integration with Student Information Systems (SIS)
NetSupport School integrates directly with Student Information Systems (SIS) through two main methods:
- ClassLink OneRoster: This integration allows schools to import roster data directly from their SIS/MIS system. You can link directly to the SIS/MIS using ClassLink OneRoster or import data from zipped CSV files. This requires a subscription to ClassLink and the NetSupport School version 12.60.001 or above.
- Google Classroom: NetSupport School also integrates with Google Classroom, enabling teachers to connect to classes and students using Google Classroom data. This involves configuring the NetSupport School Tutor to connect to the Google Classroom project and signing in with Google G Suite administrator credentials.
Platform Compatibility
NetSupport School is compatible with a variety of platforms:
- Windows: The software can be installed on Windows machines, and the Tutor component can manage student devices across the network.
- Chrome OS: There is a specific Tutor app for Chrome OS, allowing teachers to manage student Chromebooks. This setup also supports a teacher using a Windows desktop to manage Chromebooks.
- iOS and Android: NetSupport School has apps for iOS and Android devices, ensuring that students using tablets or smartphones can be managed within the classroom environment.
- Mac: The software is also compatible with Mac devices, providing a unified management solution across different operating systems.
Device Compatibility
In addition to platform compatibility, NetSupport School supports various device types:
- Chromebooks: The software is optimized for Chromebook-only classrooms, allowing real-time monitoring and management of student Chromebooks.
- BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): NetSupport School supports BYOD environments, enabling teachers to manage a mix of different student devices.
- Thin Client: It is also compatible with thin client devices, making it suitable for a range of educational settings.
Connection Modes
Teachers can connect to student devices using several connection modes:
- Room Mode: A quick method to connect to students in a specific room.
- Browse Mode: Allows teachers to browse the network for student devices.
- PC Mode: Connects to specific student devices by their PC names.
- User Mode: Connects based on user names.
- SIS Mode: Connects using data from the Student Information System, such as ClassLink OneRoster or Google Classroom.
Conclusion
Overall, NetSupport School offers a flexible and comprehensive solution for classroom management, integrating well with various SIS systems and supporting a broad range of devices and platforms.
NetSupport School - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support
- Users can contact the NetSupport support team directly via email. The support team is available to help with setup, configuration, and any other issues, even if the support contract has expired.
- There is no requirement for a support contract to receive assistance, as NetSupport provides support regardless of the product version or maintenance status.
Additional Resources
- User Guides and Manuals: NetSupport School provides detailed user guides, manuals, and product documentation to help users get started and maximize the benefits of the software. These resources are available on their website.
- Video Tours: Users can access video tours that demonstrate how to use various features of the software, making it easier to learn and implement.
- Getting Started Guide: A comprehensive getting started guide is available, which includes steps for installing, configuring, and using NetSupport School on different platforms such as Windows, Google Chrome, Android, and iOS.
- Tech Console and Deployment Tools: The software includes tools like the Remote Deployment Utility, which allows for multiple installations without visiting each workstation, and the Tech Console, which helps IT technicians manage and maintain the school’s network.
- Community and Forums: While not explicitly mentioned on the main website, forums and community discussions, such as those found on EduGeek, can provide additional support and insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
Configuration and Troubleshooting
- For issues like connectivity problems, the support team can guide users through checking the configuration to ensure everything is set correctly. This includes verifying network settings, room configurations, and gateway setups.
By leveraging these support options and resources, users of NetSupport School can ensure they are well-equipped to manage their classroom environments effectively and troubleshoot any problems that arise.
NetSupport School - Pros and Cons
Advantages of NetSupport School
NetSupport School is a comprehensive classroom management solution that offers several significant advantages for educators and students.
Comprehensive Monitoring and Control
Teachers can monitor student screens in real-time, control internet access, and manage application usage. This helps maintain student focus and ensures digital citizenship by centrally controlling the use of applications and internet.
Engaging Learning Experiences
The software includes features for screen sharing, group chat, screen annotation, and interactive student surveys and quizzes. These tools enhance engagement and creativity in the classroom.
Assessment and Collaboration Tools
Teachers can design and deliver formative and summative assessments, and use features like student journals to capture and save class content for post-lesson review. The software also supports collaborative learning through gamification features.
Multi-Device Support
NetSupport School is compatible with various devices, including Windows, Chrome, iOS, Android, and Mac, making it versatile for different classroom environments.
Ease of Use and Deployment
Users have praised the software for being easy to deploy, configure, and use. The Tech Console allows technicians to work remotely on machines, which is particularly useful.
Excellent Customer Support
The customer support provided by NetSupport is highly regarded, with users noting quick and helpful responses to technical issues.
Disadvantages of NetSupport School
While NetSupport School is highly praised, there are some minor drawbacks to consider:
Learning Curve on Non-Windows Devices
There is a small learning curve when using the software on non-Windows devices such as Android and iOS, as these devices have fewer features compared to Windows.
Occasional Technical Issues
Some users have reported occasional issues with computers not showing up in the teacher console, which may require restarting the computer to resolve.
Installation Challenges Without a Domain
Installing the software without a domain can be tricky and may require additional configuration.
Limited Features in Certain Modes
Users have noted that stopping the exhibition of the teacher screen can be a bit difficult to figure out, and there is a desire for easier updates to newer versions of the software.
Internet Access Restrictions
Some users would like more granular control over internet access, such as blocking in-application internet access, which is currently not available.
Overall, NetSupport School is a valuable tool for classroom management, offering a wide range of features that enhance teaching and learning, despite a few minor technical and usability issues.
NetSupport School - Comparison with Competitors
When comparing NetSupport School with other education tools in the AI-driven and learning management system (LMS) categories, several key features and alternatives stand out.
NetSupport School Key Features
NetSupport School is a comprehensive classroom management tool that offers a range of features, including:
- Assessment and monitoring tools
- Collaboration and control features
- Analytics and reporting
- Online learning support
- Gradebook and content management
- Student collaboration and course management
- Instructor-led training and AI capabilities for personalized learning and grading.
Unique Features
One of the unique aspects of NetSupport School is its ability to work across all platforms, providing teachers with a wealth of dedicated tools to leverage their ICT equipment effectively. It also includes features like blank screen control, internet monitoring, and real-time assessment tools, which are particularly useful for maintaining classroom discipline and engagement.
Alternatives and Competitors
Google Classroom
Google Classroom is a highly recommended alternative, known for its efficiency, reliability, and transparency. It integrates seamlessly with Google Drive and Docs, making it easy for teachers to create, distribute, and mark assignments paperlessly. Google Classroom is free for schools and individuals with a Google account, making it a cost-effective option.
Canvas
Canvas by Instructure is another strong competitor, praised for its efficiency, reliability, and innovation. It is adaptable, customizable, and easy to use, with a focus on saving time and effort for teachers. Canvas is widely used across various educational institutions and is known for its mobile accessibility and time-saving features.
Blackboard Learn
Blackboard Learn is a well-established LMS that offers features like AI-assisted grading, rubric development, and analytics. While it is more efficient and reliable than some other options, it is less transparent and less innovative compared to NetSupport School. However, it remains a reliable choice for many educational institutions.
Schoology
Schoology is a cloud-based LMS that specializes in curriculum management, course instruction, and system-wide resource sharing. It is more efficient but has been noted for having less inspiring and less innovative features compared to NetSupport School. It also faces challenges in implementation and support.
Netop Vision
Netop Vision is a classroom management tool that is highly recommended by users. It offers features like real-time internet monitoring, blank screen control, and comprehensive classroom management. Netop Vision is particularly praised for its ease of use and effectiveness during remote learning scenarios.
Fedena
Fedena is a multipurpose Education ERP software that includes features for administration, management, and learning-related activities. It is highly recommended for its comprehensive dashboard and student information system capabilities. Fedena is an excellent alternative for institutions looking for a broader range of educational management tools.
Moodle
Moodle is an open-source LMS that is feature-rich, secure, and scalable. It integrates seamlessly with other platforms and can be customized for various teaching methods. Moodle is known for its efficiency, reliability, and ease of customization, making it a popular choice among educational institutions.
AI-Driven Features
Smart Sparrow
For AI-driven learning, Smart Sparrow is an adaptive e-learning platform that uses machine learning to personalize learning and provide real-time feedback. It offers interactive lessons and allows students to learn at their own pace.
Querium
Querium is an AI-powered tutoring platform that assesses students’ strengths and weaknesses, providing targeted instruction and real-time feedback. This platform is particularly useful for personalized learning experiences.
Woot Math
Woot Math is an AI-powered math education platform that personalizes math lessons for each student, offering real-time feedback and support to improve math skills.
Conclusion
Each of these alternatives offers unique features that can cater to different needs within the educational sector. NetSupport School stands out for its comprehensive classroom management and AI-driven features, but options like Google Classroom, Canvas, and Moodle provide strong alternatives with their own set of advantages. For AI-driven learning, platforms like Smart Sparrow, Querium, and Woot Math offer specialized solutions that can enhance personalized learning experiences.
NetSupport School - Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about NetSupport School, along with detailed responses to each:
What is NetSupport School and what are its primary functions?
NetSupport School is a classroom management tool that helps educators improve the efficiency of classroom instruction. It allows teachers to control student activity on devices, monitor app and website usage, deliver content, and foster collaborative learning. The software includes features such as real-time monitoring, screen sharing, interactive whiteboards, and assessment tools to maintain classroom focus and enhance student engagement.
Does NetSupport School offer a free trial or a free plan?
Yes, NetSupport School offers a free trial, but it does not provide a free plan. You can test the software with the free trial to see if it meets your needs before purchasing.
How does NetSupport School help with student assessment and feedback?
NetSupport School includes several tools for assessing student understanding and progress. Teachers can use the Q&A mode for real-time individual, group, and peer assessments. The software also features a full testing console with auto-marking for more structured assessments. Additionally, teachers can conduct quick surveys and polls to gather feedback from the class.
Can NetSupport School be used on various operating systems and devices?
Yes, NetSupport School is compatible with a wide range of platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Chrome OS, Android, Kindle, and iOS. This ensures that the software can be used across different types of student devices and in various educational environments.
How does NetSupport School help with classroom management and student behavior?
NetSupport School provides several features to help manage classroom behavior. Teachers can monitor and control student screens, lock student controls, blank screens, and restrict access to certain websites and applications. The software also includes tools for monitoring internet usage, keyword monitoring, and real-time activity metering to ensure students stay on task.
Does NetSupport School support collaborative learning and engagement?
Yes, NetSupport School is built with collaboration in mind. It includes features such as group leaders, chat sessions, interactive whiteboards, and the ability to show one student’s screen to others. These tools help enhance student collaboration and engagement during lessons.
How can NetSupport School help schools save money and time?
NetSupport School helps schools save money by allowing teachers to power on or off all classroom computers centrally, reducing unnecessary power consumption. It also enables central printer management, reducing paper wastage and unauthorized printing. Time-saving benefits include the ability to monitor multiple PCs from one central point and remote troubleshooting by technicians.
Is NetSupport School secure and does it support e-safety policies?
Yes, NetSupport School includes a range of features to support e-safety policies. It offers Internet monitoring and restrictions, the ability to disable webcams, control access to content on memory sticks, and trigger alerts for violations. The software also includes keyword and IM monitoring to alert schools of any online activity that may place a student at risk.
Can NetSupport School be used in different educational environments, such as thin client or virtualized settings?
Yes, NetSupport School can be used in various educational environments, including traditional PC, thin client, or virtualized settings. The NetSupport School CCE version is specifically optimized for thin client environments, providing advanced desktop monitoring and real-time presentation tools.
How does NetSupport School facilitate teacher mobility and assistance in the classroom?
NetSupport School offers the NetSupport Tutor Assistant app, available for Apple and Android devices, which allows teachers to move around the classroom while maintaining control and monitoring of student workstations. This app pairs with the NetSupport desktop Tutor software, providing greater mobility for teachers and teaching assistants.
NetSupport School - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of NetSupport School
NetSupport School is a comprehensive and feature-rich classroom management solution that has been refined over more than 30 years to meet the diverse needs of educators and students. Here’s a detailed look at its benefits, who would benefit most from using it, and an overall recommendation.Key Features and Benefits
Monitoring and Control
Teachers can monitor student activity in real-time, control the use of apps, websites, and printers, and manage student devices across various platforms including Windows, Mac, Linux, Chrome OS, Android, Kindle, and iOS.
Assessment and Collaboration
The software includes tools for formative and summative assessments, interactive student surveys, quizzes, and collaborative features like group chat, screen annotation, and screen sharing. It also supports student journals and gamification to enhance engagement.
E-Safety and Safeguarding
NetSupport School and its companion tool, NetSupport DNA, provide extensive e-safety features such as internet monitoring, keyword and IM monitoring, and alerts for potential risks. This ensures a safe learning environment and supports safeguarding policies.
Time and Cost Efficiency
The software helps in saving time by allowing teachers to manage multiple PCs from a central point, turn them on or off, and monitor network activity. It also reduces power consumption and minimizes unnecessary printing and paper waste.
Integration and Flexibility
NetSupport School integrates with Google Classroom, SIS, and SSO applications, making student registration and scheduling easier. It works seamlessly across wired and wireless networks and supports various educational environments.
Who Would Benefit Most
NetSupport School is highly beneficial for:Teachers
It provides a comprehensive set of tools to manage the classroom, deliver content, monitor student activity, and assess student understanding. The software helps in maintaining student focus and promoting digital citizenship.
IT Technicians
The software simplifies network monitoring, allows remote troubleshooting, and provides a whole-school view of computer status, making IT management more efficient.
School Administrators
By optimizing resource usage, reducing power consumption, and streamlining administrative tasks, NetSupport School helps in managing school budgets effectively.
Overall Recommendation
NetSupport School is an excellent choice for educational institutions looking to enhance classroom management, student engagement, and e-safety. Here are some key points to consider:Ease of Use
While generally user-friendly, there is a small learning curve, especially for non-Windows devices. However, the intuitive design and excellent customer support make it accessible for most users.
Value for Money
The software is highly rated for its value relative to its cost, offering a wide range of features that justify the investment.
Customer Feedback
Users praise its reliability, performance, and the continuous improvement of the product. Some minor drawbacks include issues with firewalls and VPNs, but these can be worked around.
In summary, NetSupport School is a powerful tool that can significantly enhance the teaching and learning experience. Its comprehensive suite of features, ease of use, and strong customer support make it a highly recommended solution for schools and educators.