Microsoft has officially launched its Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 technology at the Gulf Education Suppliers and Solutions exhibition in Dubai.
This technology allows up to 20 screens to use a single PC and each screen can show individual content controlled by the teacher. The device is aimed at the educational sector, from K-12 and beyond into higher education.
"I believe this is a fascinating piece of technology because it will allow increased access to information communication technology devices at a much reduced cost, so it is saving on investment in hardware. Releasing this kind of investment will increase access to education," said Azza Shinnawy, Education lead for Microsoft Gulf.The MultiPoint Server technology can reduce costs of technology for schools up to 66%, according to Microsoft.
The technology also means that every student can have access to a computer. The screens can also be split into two, meaning in larger classrooms, two students can share the same screen and both can have individual content.
"[MultiPoint] is very flexible for the teacher to manage the computers, they have management over what these computing devices actually operate and each of the individual screens is customised to reflect the student that is using it," said Shinnawy.
"So for example if they are voting or having a test or opinion poll, with the click of a button from each student, the teacher will have on her machine, she will be able to get the results and be aware how students are progressing."
The Ministry of Education in the UAE has recently a Connected Learning Gateway (CLG), solution, developed by Microsoft ITWorx, and based on the Microsoft Learning Gateway. The GEMS schools across the region have also already implemented the technology and the government in Qatar is also looking at introducing it.
The Microsoft MLG is a cloud-based portal that allows teachers, students and parents access to information and services from any where at any time.