Amplify Tablet
Android Mobile Learning System for K–12 classrooms
Figure 1: Amplify Tablet.
From 2013–2016, I was an Android Technical Lead at Amplify, a New York City educational technology company focused on the K-12 market. In particular, I worked in their Access division, which developed an Android mobile learning system for real-time interaction between teachers and students directly in the classroom. The system was an end-to-end solution: a complete Android ecosystem providing hardware, software, and content components.
Hardware
Figure 2: Amplify Tablet hardware.
The Amplify Tablet (Figure 2) was designed by Intel Education and built for the rigors of K-12 classroom use. The tablet featured a rugged, IP52 splash-resistant design; Corning Gorilla Glass provided break and scratch resistance; and integrated bumpers protected the tablet from the inevitable drops. Optional case and keyboard configurations were also provided.
Software
Figure 3: Amplify Tablet software (teacher's view).
The instructional software (Figure 3) connected directly with a school district’s student information system to provide easy provisioning and personalization of tablets. Students were provided a mobile learning device that was organized around their classes. Teachers gained easy-to-use classroom tools that helped them plan lessons (Figure 4), prepare quizzes, share multimedia resources, and quickly check students’ level of understanding.
Figure 4: Amplify Lesson (Playlist) Builder.
Content
Figure 5: Amplify Tablet Market.
The Amplify Market was a store that provided teachers and students with easy access to curated K-12 apps. The market included subject-specific apps, as well as the best tools and most engaging educational games available at the time. Apps were accompanied by useful pedagogical information that helped teachers use them effectively in classroom instruction.