Technol ogy Abstract, Academi c Standards Al i gnment, and

Curri cul um Support

J Scott Thompson, Instructional Technologist


Contents
Abstract ______________________________________________________________________ 1
Exemplars _____________________________________________________________________ 4
A Day in the Life _____________________________________________________________________________ 4
Common Core State Standards English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science,
and Technical Subjects _______________________________________________________________ 5
Reading ____________________________________________________________________________________ 6
Annotate Reading and Writing Texts ____________________________________________________________ 7
Writing ____________________________________________________________________________________ 8
Speaking and Listening_______________________________________________________________________ 11
Language _________________________________________________________________________________ 13
Common Core State Standards for Mathematics _________________________________________ 18
Next Generation Science Standards ____________________________________________________ 19
Instructional Technology Summary and Exemplars _______________________________________ 25
Computational Thinking, Modeling, and Advanced Concepts with Excel ______________________ 30
Excel Functions _____________________________________________________________________________ 33
Accessibility: Making Technology for All Students ________________________________________ 36
What is Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act? ___________________________________________________ 36
Learning Styles and Preferences _______________________________________________________ 39
How Windows 8 Supports Rich Learning Environments and Educational Standards _____________ 40
Interdisciplinary Academic Workflows _________________________________________________ 41
Bibliography __________________________________________________________________ 50



2013 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved. This document is provided as is. Information and views expressed in this document,
including URL and other Internet website references and all academic or education standards or requirements, may change without notice.
MICROSOFT MAKES NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESS, IMPLIED, OR STATUTORY, AS TO THE INFORMATION IN THIS DOCUMENT. Microsoft and the
Microsoft Logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation, in the United States and/or other countries.
NGA Center/CCSSO is acknowledged as the sole owners and developers of the Common Core State Standards, and no claims to the contrary are
made. Copyright 2010. National Governors Association Center for Best Practices and Council of Chief State School Officers. All rights reserved.
NEXT GENERATION SCIENCE STANDARDS and the associated logo are trademarks of Achieve, Inc. 2011, 2012, 2013 Achieve, Inc. All rights
reserved.
All other logos, trademarks and service marks are the property of their respected owners.




1


Abstract
In conjunction with education experts from around the world, we explore new
approaches and resources that any school or school system can use, and the
critical teacher and instructional leadership development necessary, to help
students achieve their full potential. Moreover, Microsofts Partners in Learning
engages directly with educators and industry leaders around the world to transform
and optimize technology implementation and advance teaching and learning
practices (Microsoft, US PiL, 2013).
Microsoft advocates innovative technology practices and delivers teacher training
and workshops supporting educator technological, pedagogical, and content
knowledge, such as delivering workshops and training through Microsofts Partners
in Learning (PiL) team. Additionally, Microsoft has long held that technology is
simply a tool that when used appropriately in an educational context it can help
improve teaching and learning. However, technology is only one piece of a larger
approach supported by professional development, content support, and
instructional technology training (Microsoft, US PiL, 2013). Technology acquisition
alone is not the solution to education reform or evolving educational standards.
In support of Innovative Teaching and Learning Research, Microsoft works with
education and political leaders in countries around the world who recognize the
imperative to prepare their youth for the 21st Century. Microsoft proudly sponsors
the Innovative Teaching and Learning (ITL) Research project (Partners in Learning,
2012). This ambitious initiative aims to provide education policy evidence on what
achieves results for students when integrating technology into teaching and
learning. Microsoft is dedicated to education excellence and demonstrates this




2


commitment in many ways, and partners with global
and local education leaders, such as UNESCO and
advocates for education excellence inside the United
States, such as the Council of Chief State School
Officers (CCSS)) and the National Governors
Association (NGA).
Furthermore, Microsoft has developed and
published Infrastructure Optimization models
designed to evolve infrastructure,
increase productivity, and transform the
technology environment. To learn more,
scan the tag to the right with your phone
or mobile device.
Microsoft develops software that provides students
and teachers with feature rich technology capabilities
that can amplify academic inquiry, instruction, and
support educational standards. With a focus on
supporting teachers and students, technologies such
as Microsoft Office 365 Education, Microsoft Office,
Windows 8, Internet Explorer, and optional academic
and productivity tools that facilitate education
functions and support students and teachers.

Microsoft technologies support instruction of
Educational Standards, such as Common Core State
Standards (CCSS), Next Generation Science
Standards (NGSS) (in draft at the time of this paper),
and local and state learning standards. Specifically,
Microsofts Windows 8 can support PARCC and
SBAC high stakes testing with compliant devices
(PARCC, 2013; SBACC, 2013). Moreover, Microsoft
tools support teachers and students and academic

Microsofts tools
support the creation of
new, redefined, and
transformative tasks,
Moreover, these tools
provide the ability to
publish and share high
quality academic
content and enable
unexpected instructional
efficiencies.





3

outcomes and educational needs in the following broad academic workflows that
support educational standards.
Writing
Reading
Data Analysis
Computational Thinking
Presentations and Publishing
Multimedia Creation
Research
Communication and Collaboration
Information Management
Microsoft supports Innovative Educator professional development workshops,
which are designed to educate trainers and teachers on instructional best practices
using technology and improve student outcomes. These workshops integrate
Microsoft tools in the Innovative Educator workshops. Microsoft also offers online
courses, materials, resources and provides easy to understand help files and on-line
training materials (Microsoft, Office, 2013). Additional information regarding the
training content for Microsoft Office can be found on our Office training site.
This paper describes academic and educational standards support using Microsoft
technologies, Teacher/Leadership training, and tools. Descriptions of Microsoft
technologies are extracted and adapted from Microsofts public facing web pages
and education related content. Educational standards will continue to evolve by
advocacy and policy leaders. Please ensure you consult the most current published
standards adopted by your organization. This white paper provides a resource for
educators conducting activities such as planning, instructional support, and
professional development especially in the context of educational standards and
academic workflows.






4

Exemplars
A Day in the Life
Using Microsoft technology, students can conduct remote scientific field research
away from Internet connections, capturing geological findings using their tablets
video camera, and synchronizing their work to the cloud when they are able to
connect to the Web. A high school student on her way a local community college
catches a cell signal and reviews a project rubric on her phone. Using their tablets,
an audience of theatre students captures video of student performances and the
video is synchronized with handwritten digital inked notes on the class rubric in
OneNote.
Collaboration and coauthoring support the writing process are supported in real
time using Microsoft Office and the Office 365 Education cloud. Microsoft Office is
the familiar desktop productivity tools that provide commercial, career quality
content creation. What is more, Microsoft Office is touch enabled and cloud
connected. This means that users have the ability to harness Microsoft Offices
power through a tablet or other touch enabled device. Microsoft Office is cloud
connected to a suite of collaboration and storage tools in the cloud. These cloud
tools are referred to as Office 365 Education.
Math students coach and update meeting calendars using Outlook, which will be
automatically sync across their tablets, phones, and home PCs. At an elementary
school, Math students write equations, symbols, and other content using digital ink.
At a middle school, a history teacher shares a collection of civil war letters written
by solders with a Windows 8 tablet, and the class develops responsive writing texts
using Publisher. Down the hallway, a collaborative group of students create an
interactive, touch enabled book using their tablets and Microsoft Office. At the
high school, another group of students take an on-line benchmark assessment,
demonstrating their success and mastery of Common Core standards. In a CTE
course, students securely use Lync to provide teachers with a customized video
conference and share how to documents, and quiz the teachers on what they have




5

learned using Lyncs built in polling. That night, high school science students use
Lync to finish a flipped classroom task, and craft an interactive multimedia
presentation using Microsoft Office.




6



Reading

By supporting robust technologies that embrace industry standards, and
supporting third party education apps, Microsoft provides fundamental and
advanced technology features in our software. Since Windows 8 is a full operating
system, students, and teachers are able to take advantage of powerful, feature rich
content creation and productivity tools on their tablets and
other form factors (Microsoft, WIndows, 2013). Students and
teachers can work with diverse content and education
sources using tools like IE 10, which provides compelling web
experiences and supports sites using third party
technologies, such as those using Adobe Flash and other
supported browser add-ons.
Additionally, students and teachers can use third party apps (such as eReaders or
interactive publishing content) exposing students to a variety of literary,
informational texts from publishers and content creators (e.g., Kindle, KNO, NOOK)
and other education, consumer and commercial apps, using their Windows device.
Additionally, Microsoft Word provides an engaging reading experience using the
Read Mode and is able to open a diverse set of file types. Our tools promote new
education tasks and workflows with rich functionality. As an example, students can
open and read education text and content contained in a PDF. Using Word, they
can also annotate within the file. In this example, the changes can then be save
while in Microsoft Word.




7


Engage in Reading Literary and Informational Texts
Using Word, students gain exposure to a range of texts and tasks.
Students are able to get absorbed in texts with the new clean,
comfortable reading view.

Annotate Reading and Writing Texts

Students can annotate content using Microsoft Word. Students can also annotate
text in other file formats, such as in PDF files. Word allows users to open PDF files,
make annotated comments, and save as the content as a PDF or in other format.
New Read Mode- Users can engage with informational and literary text using
Microsoft Words new Read Mode. Using the view, editing tools are removed to
minimize distractions, but users still have access to the tools that are always handy
for reading such as Define, Translate, and Search on Web. These tools can support
students as they learn how to clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-
meaning words and phrases a context clues, analyze meaningful word parts, and
consult general and specialized reference materials.
Object zoom- Double-tap with your finger or double-click with your mouse to
zoom in and make tables, charts, and images in your document fill the screen.
Focus on and take in the information, then tap or click again outside the object to
zoom out and continue reading.
Resume reading- Reopen a document and keep reading right where you left off.
Word remembers where readers wereeven when the user reopens an online
document from a different computer.
Online video- Students watch online videos right in Word, without having to leave
the document, so they can stay focused on the content.
Expand and collapse- Collapse or expand parts of a document with just a tap or
click. Put summaries in headings and leave it to readers to open the section and
read the details if they want.








8

Writing

Students and teachers can use Microsofts tools to develop fundamental and
advanced writing texts. Microsoft Words flexibility and functionality supports the
required writing instructional needs, such as authoring required text types, content
development, and text complexity. Students are able to develop their text around
the standard text types, including narrative writing texts, creative writing-beyond
narrative, informational/explanatory texts, and employ argument and persuasion.
Students may prefer Word to develop their texts, although Microsoft Office does
not require a specific application to create student writing. However, Word has
evolved with this purpose in mind. Publisher also provides support for diverse
writing tasks and like Microsoft Word, contains numerous templates that assist
students as they create creative writing projects. Of note, Publisher allows students
to publish high quality content as HTML and author basic webpages, in addition to
flyers, bookmarks, and other creative projects.
Microsoft Word provides the ability to plan, revise, edit, and publish text and
supports academic workflows requiring a writing process, and provides flexibility for
students as they develop content across instructional disciplines. A formalized
writing process is not required when authoring content or collaborating in Word.
Additionally, real time group coauthoring (multiple authors in the same document)
and collaboration (using video/audio, IM, and email) is supported in Word, and
using Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote.
Students may take advantage of Words outline capabilities to help structure their
work, or use a customized template as a guide. Additionally, the use of a graphic
organization tool during the writing process may be helpful as the student refines
purpose and develops text complexity. Students can use the built in SmartArt
graphics as part of a prewriting strategy as needed or indicated during
instruction. Word has the ability to incorporate digital ink, support equation
writing, capturing video, photos, voice recordings, SmartArt, and additional
objects, which also facilitates rich content development opportunities.




9

Students have the power to customize their user experience in Windows 8 and in
Microsoft Office. Specifically in Microsoft Office, students can use custom
templates, commands on the Office Ribbon, and the Quick Access Toolbar.
Students are able to create their own personalized tabs on the Ribbon and create
an environment that works best for their particular needs. Using Microsofts
platform, students can save their work to the cloud, share their work with other
students as part of a collaborative activity, and work together at the same time or
asynchronously. Students are able to use the integrated communications
capabilities, and can view presence for group members, set up a video and web
chat sessions, IM, coauthor, share documents and their desktop, and peer edit in
real time.
Using Windows 8, Microsoft Office, and the education cloud with Office 365
Education, students are able to develop rich independent content or engage with
learning teams. These features support academic scenarios such collaborative
group writing and research projects. Additionally, the Microsoft Office
collaboration and communication features support student mentors and student
experts coaching other students.
Educational Standards, such as those found in Common Core, require quantitative
evaluation of text complexity (NGA Center, 2011). Providing a quantitative
evaluation of text, especially during the writing process can provide insight into
current student performance for students and teachers. Also real time proofing
feedback illuminates potential spelling and grammatical errors for students. This
capability also provides additional support for numerous languages, supporting ESL
students and foreign language coursework. Educational Standards, such as
Common Core, support writing performance tasks on or above grade level
(Practices, Common Core ELA, 2010). Students can gain additional insight into the
readability of their writing and get an indication if they are writing on grade level
using Microsoft Word. Indeed, writing on grade level and developing grade
appropriate texts are essential and teachers play a key role supporting students as
they develop their writing skills on grade level.




10

To support this aim, students receive feedback very quickly regarding spelling,
grammar and readability using Words built in Proofing Tools. Moreover, students
are able to get an indication if they are writing on grade level, using the Review tab
in Microsoft Word, Spelling, and Grammar option. Optionally enabled, After Word
reviews spelling and grammar, readability insight is displayed using the Flesch
Reading Ease and Flesch-Kincade Grade Level. With their domain expertise,
teachers can use this feature another indicator when assessing the students grade
level writing progress.
Complementing scholarly research and
supporting academic integrity, Word provides
students with built in capabilities so that they
easily collect, manage and cite references.
Indeed, it is important for students to
understand the importance of documenting
primary and secondary source materials. The
process for citing sources should be supported
by the technology. Word allows students to easily and efficiently manage and
document research.
Importantly, fundamental, repetitive tasks should be handled by the technology,
freeing instructional time for the student and teacher. As an example, if students
are working on a research paper, Word accelerates routine
tasks such as assisting students as they manage sources,
references, and document citations. Students easily generate
a Works Cited or Bibliography page using an appropriate
academic style (e.g. APA, MLA, ISO) in Word. This capability
allows students to accomplish instructional objects whether
they are online or off line.
Additionally this capability can be called out by educators and can be used as part
of an effort to promote ethical and responsible academic citizenship and
appropriate scholarly documentation in support of learning outcomes, academic
goals, and the CCSS and individual standards.
Microsoft Office supports student-learning tasks such as providing tools to
coauthor to supporting the use of media and visual displays strategically to help
achieve communicative purposes, and adapt speech to context and task. Even
though students are working on their tablet, laptop, phone, or other capable
device, and saving to the Cloud, there is no need to spend extra time instructional
time reworking or reformatting content resulting from saving to the Cloud.
Formatting is preserved throughout the round trip of a document. Students can




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use their time to focus on important instructional activities and refine their digital
manuscripts, presentations, notes, models and projects without reformatting
misplaced content resulting from a file that has traveled round trip in the Cloud.



Speaking and Listening

Microsoft also supports Speaking and Listening using multiple tools. In addition to
Windows apps, Internet Explorer provides access to streaming sites. PowerPoint
supports group and individual presentations in person or online. PowerPoint
allows students to engage effectively in a wide range of collaborative discussions
and present on diverse topics, texts, and issues, allowing students to build on
others ideas and expressing their own ideas clearly. Furthermore, PowerPoint
supports collegial discussions and collaboration using the integrated
communications features found in Microsoft Office, such as conducting online
presentations to individuals and groups.
In addition to standard text and graphics, Microsoft PowerPoint has the ability to
incorporate digital ink, support equation writing, incorporate video, photos, voice
recordings, music SmartArt, and additional objects. Additionally, they are able to
include multimedia elements as part of their work. Students may want to record
and play back group activities and student presentations in support of their
speaking and listening tasks.
Similarly, OneNote supports Speaking and Listening standards and outcomes by
recording the video and audio during a note taking session. The notes are
automatically indexed with the video and audio recording. Upon playback, the
captured notes are highlighted in sync the video playback. This allows the user to
see what notes were taken at a specific point in time. This feature is useful when
OneNote is used to support feedback with individual and group presentations and
activities.
PowerPoint allows students to adapt content and their presentations using a variety
of contexts and tasks. Make strategic use of digital media (e.g., textual, graphical,
audio, visual, and interactive elements) in presentations to enhance understanding
of findings, reasoning,
and evidence and to add
interest.




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Mathematics courses can use PowerPoint as a supplemental tool to develop
student projects representing mathematics domains, clusters, or standards.
PowerPoint and Windows 8 enables students and teachers to insert equations into
presentations and use the equation gallery.
PowerPoint helps students integrate multiple sources of information supporting
diverse media and formats. In addition, students are able to use rehearse their
presentations beforehand with the rehearse timings feature and then present
information, findings, and support their evidence clearly, concisely, and logically.
Students are able to make strategic use of digital media ranging from textual,
graphical, audio, visual, and interactive elements into presentations that enhance
understanding of student or group findings, and reasoning.
Additionally, students are able to incorporate qualitative data using a variety of
features, such as slides incorporating text boxes, graphics, art, and digital images.
This includes features that allow students to create a visual representation of
abstract and complex ideas and information using SmartArt. While inside
PowerPoint, students can search for online pictures and online video without
leaving the app. Students have the ability to manipulate
and edit digital photos and video inside PowerPoint and
save their presentations as HD Video.
PowerPoint is a familiar and prolific tool and traditionally
used when communicating and presenting information
with audiences in a variety of physical locations, such as
in a classroom or auditorium. PowerPoint continues to
support group presentations. Important to understand are new uses of PowerPoint
that are now possible. Because of collaborative and communications integration,
PowerPoint is useful for numerous online presentation scenarios. Students can
present to other students online, work on virtual group projects, and participate in
peer coaching. Teachers can share student work, hold parent teacher meetings
online, and present to colleagues online.





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However, with touch in Windows 8 and
PowerPoint, there is now a capability to deliver
more personal, interactive multimedia
experiences. As an example, digital storytelling
can now incorporate interactive, touch-enabled
content authored and viewed in PowerPoint.
Students can flip through instructional content
using touch, which can incorporate embedded
files and online video resources. Given the ubiquitous teacher instructional content
authored in PowerPoint, teachers have the potential of transforming their existing
presentations and develop interactive resources that use touch. Additionally,
students are able to engage and participate in a range of collaborative discussions
using the communications tools in Office as well. IM, Voice/Audio, and email are
among the supporting options to support speaking and listening.

Language

Microsofts platform supports the conventions, knowledge of language, and
vocabulary extend across reading, writing, speaking, and listening and is facilitated
by Windows, Word, PowerPoint, Publisher, OneNote, Internet Explorer, and
Windows. In Word, the grammar and spelling checks combined with readability
statistics provide support and flexibility with the Language component.
In Word, students receive feedback in real time regarding spelling, grammar and
can check the texts readability. Moreover, students are able to get an indication if
they are writing on grade level, using the Review tab in Microsoft Word, Spelling,
and Grammar option. Text can also read using the narrator and recordings can
also be embedded in Word documents. Video content can also be inserted and
viewed while in PowerPoint and Word.




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Students and teachers are able to use recording capabilities to support replay of
language activities to reinforce key concepts. As Microsoft OneNote enables on
line and off line note taking, journaling, and it can be used during the prewriting
process to incorporate learned patterns, conventions of Standard English,
appropriate vocabulary and support the
language progressive skills as part of a
student portfolio.
Supporting Reading, Writing,
Language, Speaking, and Listening
across content areas

Microsoft OneNote supports academic
standards and education outcomes across
disciplines and tasks, such as writing,
reading, mathematics, science, history, CTE, and elective courses. Students may use
OneNote across content areas and grade levels, and use OneNote to compile and
organize unstructured information, research, and content. OneNote also supports
research, collaboration, information management, communication, note taking,
journaling, reflective writing, and academic requirements. Because of its flexibility,
OneNote possesses the capacity to support envisioned and yet to be envisioned
activities, tasks, and academic workflows and is part of our academic platform.
Microsoft OneNote is a digital notebook that provides a single place for student or
teacher notes and captured ideas, with powerful search that allows students to
needed content quickly, and easy-to-use shared notebooks to manage data
collection and work together with others more effectively.
Unlike paper-based systems, word processing programs, e-mail systems, or other
productivity programs, OneNote delivers the flexibility to gather and organize text,
pictures, digital handwriting, audio and video recordings, and more all in one
digital notebook. The Notebook is available locally for off line access and can be
synced to the cloud and shared with others as part of collaborative study or
supporting existing and new group scholarly research workflows.
Individual students and groups can use OneNotes audio and video notes to
capture group performances and activities. Students can provide feedback in
OneNote during the recording and upon playback, the notes are synchronized and
highlighted.
OneNote helps students stay productive by keeping the information easily
searchable, reducing time spent searching for information across e-mail messages,




15

paper notebooks, file folders, and printouts. Students can print to OneNote,
meaning that OneNote can collect digital printouts of students work, writing, texts,
reading, and other projects and support digital student portfolio initiatives.
Teachers can use OneNote to support their Open Educator Resources and share
instructional content with students.
Students can send content into OneNote and find the content for use using built in
search. OneNote also allows content to be tagged and can be used as a personal
wiki. Students can collect research and use OneNote as a repository for their
research. As an example, students can work together in groups and collect
research from the needed website. Students collect needed research from sites
using screen clippings. In addition, text captured within the screen-clipping image
becomes discoverable through search, and the content can be used in support of
needed research, academic assignments and other tasks. When students add
screen clippings to the OneNote page, the sites name, URL, date, and time are
also captured and available for use in citations.
OneNote is an integrated part of Microsoft Office, which makes it easy to gather,
organize, find, and share your notes and information more efficiently and
effectively. Powerful search capabilities can locate information from text within
pictures or from spoken words in audio and video recordings. Furthermore,
OneNotes easy-to-use collaborative
tools help student teams work
together using shared notebooks,
and can later access their content
whether online or offline.
With all of your information at the
students fingertips, OneNote
provides learners with a resource for organizing vast amounts of information, and it
enables students to work with others more effectively, and helps them stay on top
of tasks, schedules, and learning team information (Microsoft, Office, 2013). The
familiar look and feel of the Microsoft Office system makes it easy to start using the
program right away, minimizing wasted time, and training costs.




16


Standards
(By Strand)
Key Feature of
Standards
Functionality and Examples

Writing
Text types, responding to
reading, and research
Get readability and grade level writing
feedback from built in tools inside Word. Get
grammatical and spelling feedback inside
Office. Develop very high quality, complex
informative and explanatory texts with
illustrations in Word; edit digital images inside
Word; present to class using multimedia and
interactive features in PowerPoint. Generate
engaging and creative works using Publisher.
Share student-writing examples using
OneNote. Support Writing portfolio using
OneNote. Develop quality research texts using
multiple sources easily cite and manage
sources, efficiently generate Works Cited or
Bibliography page using built in tools in Word.
Use APA, MLA, Chicago, ISO and other
academic styles in writing. Conduct peer
editing online, coauthor content and
collaborate in Word. Share content using
optional social media integration, email, or
online using Video or desktop sharing. Publish
writing using keyboard skills, using handwriting,
using speech recognition built into Windows
and integrated in Word, and other Office tools.
Speaking
and Listening
Flexible communication
and collaboration
Present effectively and develop high quality
presentation materials using PowerPoint; Use
media strategically, and use assorted media
such as SmartArt, video, audio and other object
in text. Demonstrate command of the English
language capturing presentations using
OneNote. Evaluate speakers point of view
using video capture and synchronized notes in




17

Standards
(By Strand)
Key Feature of
Standards
Functionality and Examples
OneNote. Paraphrase text aloud and record it
using apps in Windows. Develop creative
presentations and save as a HD movie in
PowerPoint. Edit video, audio using Apps in
Windows. Make strategic use of media in
presentations using Word, PowerPoint, or
Publisher.
Language
Conventions, effective use,
and vocabulary
Support sentence level context using search
and research tools in Word, Use online
reference materials with IE in Windows 8, or
built in Office research, spelling and thesaurus
functionality. Use new education apps and
compatible legacy software using Windows 8.
Apply language skills using Lync in IM, email,
and audio/video presentations. Present
language skills using PowerPoint or capture
and share conversational exercises using
OneNotes audio/video notes.
(Practices, Common Core ELA, 2010)





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CCSS Mathematics
Outcomes for Mathematical
Practice
Examples of Use and Functionality
Make sense of problems and
persevere in solving
Use Microsoft Math 4.0 to reinforce challenging math
problems, from simple to advanced, providing step by
step guidance; students tutor and mentor peers using
IM/Audio and Video chat; Students develop interactive
multimedia presentations that teach other students key
concept using PowerPoint. Capture and diagram
problems using digital ink in OneNote;

Reason abstractly and quantitatively
Browse web sites using IE, Develop presentations
describing processes, reasoning, and quantitative
measures using PowerPoint. Solve real world problems
researched on web and visualize data in Excel
Construct viable arguments and
critique the reasoning of others
Use OneNote to capture audio/video presentations of
others and critiques can be noted using handwriting.
Notes are synchronized and can be viewed at later time.
Develop arguments with PowerPoint that include
multimedia, and charts supporting thesis.
Model with mathematics
Summarize and describe distributions PowerPoint;
Decide if a specified model is consistent with a given
data-generating process and validate using Excel. Chart
3D equations using Word (with no cost add-in); Use
probability to make decision models;
Use appropriate tools strategically
Flip classroom support using Video/Audio chat and
desktop sharing; Develop complex models and analysis
using Excel; Capture notes and presentations using
OneNote. Use online help to validate tools.




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CCSS Mathematics
Outcomes for Mathematical
Practice
Examples of Use and Functionality
Attend to precision
Use clarity and exact terms when communicating,
leveraging Words built in research tools.
Look for and make use of structure.
Develop understanding of rectangular arrays and their
structure using Excel. Experiment with algebraic
expressions to reveal underlying structure.
Look for and express regularity in
repeated reasoning
Research websites finding appropriate and sound
mathematics, and examine reasoning and logic patterns.
Read text using Words View Mode regarding historical
figures and their approach to reasoning.
(Practices, CCSS Math, 2010)




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Microsoft supports the Next Generation Science Standards (currently in drafts,
expected to be in codified standards January 2013) (Achieve, Inc., 2013). We have
suggested tools that form an academic platform that supports practices used by
scientist as they investigate and build models across scientific domains. We have
provided descriptions of our tools, which will support educating students in science
and engineering, and facilitate the foundational knowledge for future scientist in
the classrooms of today.
Educators around the world use Microsoft tools because of their flexibility, features,
and capacity for to produce vibrant, high quality science content. Microsoft Office
365 Education supports students and teachers with online services that enable
collaboration, content development, and communication tools. Educators, staff,
and students get anywhere access to email and calendars, Office Web Apps, video
and online meetings, and document sharing. Microsoft Office supports simple and
advanced education needs with flexible yet powerful capabilities and allows for rich,
high quality content development.
In addition to our Office and Windows technologies, IT Academy provides
additional support with Engineering, Technology, and Applications of Science
standards. IT Academy provides e-Learning content used either out of the box with
existing curricula or parsed and integrated as needed based on the instructional
needs of the teacher, district, or state (MSL ITA, 2012). It can be used as
supplemental material or as a course on its own to support students as they earn
Microsoft Certifications, which are Industry Recognized certifications that are
independently tested and verified by a third party.
Students can conduct remote field research away from Internet connections,
capture findings using their tablets video camera, and updates their work to the
cloud when they are able to connect to the Web. A student working on their
phone can review a project rubric while on the bus. Using their tablets, students




21

are able to record video of data collection and the video is synchronized with
handwritten digital inked notes on the class rubric in OneNote.
Because of the power and flexibility of Microsofts tools, we expect that the use will
evolve over time and enable transformational academic workflows. Therefore, we
suggest Microsoft Office 365 Education, Microsoft Office, Windows 8, Internet
Explorer and additional, optional apps and add-ins for classroom use. In addition
to describing functionality, we have provided examples of anticipated student uses
as they progress through the Next Generation Science Standards (Achieve, Inc.,
2013). We expect that teachers and students will evolve the anticipated technology
tasking as part of the transformative process.





22

Science
Standards
Attributes
Summary of Technology Features
& Examples
Practices




Scientific and Engineering Practices


1. Asking questions (for science) and
defining problems (for engineering)
2. Developing and using models
3. Planning and carrying out investigations
4. Analyzing and interpreting data
5. Using mathematics and computational
thinking
6. Constructing explanations (for science)
and designing solutions (for engineering)
7. Engaging in argument from evidence
8. Obtaining, evaluating, and
communicating information.
Students are able to ask questions and
define problems across tools, but may
find OneNote especially helpful as it is a
digital notebook, which can take
handwritten notes, audio notes, video
notes, search across notebooks for key
words, recognize handwriting (digital
ink).

Windows 8 and IE 10 support fast, fluid
touch enabled web browsing with the
sites students & teachers need.
Students can also access a scientific
tools, and other no cost tools
supporting scientific exploration.

Students can develop models using
Excel, describe data using Word, and
present findings using video and
interactive multimedia found in
PowerPoint. Students can use SmartArt
to depict complex ideas in graphical
format with ease. Collaborate and
coauthor content using Office.

Engage in argument from evidence and
document research easily and efficiently
with Word. Easily generate Works Cited
and Bibliography pages and manage
citations. Communicate online with
video/IM/Chat and email.




23

Science
Standards
Attributes
Summary of Technology Features
& Examples
Crosscutting
Concepts



1.. Patterns
2. Cause and effect: Mechanism &
explanation
3. Scale, proportion, & quantity
4. Systems and system models
5. Energy and matter: Flows, cycles, &
conservation
6. Structure and function
7. Stability and change
Discover and evaluate patterns using
Microsoft Excel, visualize data (scale,
proportion, and quantity) represent
flows, cycles, and conservation with
digital ink, online images, search online
for Creative Commons images without
leaving Office.

Develop presentations for individual
use, small or large group presentations
in person and online. Conduct research
across scientific domains and use
OneNote to capture printed material
digitally, and capture URL and citation
information as part of research
collection. Evolve and document
knowledge and findings with OneNote
and Word.




24

Science
Standards
Attributes
Summary of Technology Features
& Examples
Disciplinary
Core Ideas
Physical Sciences
PS1: Matter and its interactions
PS2: Motion and stability: Forces and
interactions
PS3: Energy
PS4: Waves and their applications in
technologies for information transfer
Life Sciences
LS1: From molecules to organisms:
Structures and processes
LS2: Ecosystems: Interactions, energy, and
dynamics
LS3: Heredity: Inheritance and variation of
traits
LS4: Biological evolution: Unity and
diversity
Earth and Space Sciences
ESS1: Earths place in the universe
ESS2: Earths systems
ESS3: Earth and human activity
Engineering, Technology, and Applications
of Science
ETS1: Engineering design
ETS2: Links among engineering,
technology, science, and society
Use optional no cost Add ins and Office
Apps that extend Microsoft Office and
Windows, such as model molecules in
Word using Chem4Word Add-in.
Additional free tools for educators are
numerous, but include
WorldWideTelescope, which delivers
the Cosmos on the tablet, there are also
add-in for WWT using Excel.
http://www.pil-
network.com/Resources/Tools has a list
of no cost tools relevant for scientific
learning. Office has an Equation editor
that provides students and teachers
with easy access to galleries and
developing their own equations.
Windows has an input panel so students
can easily add equations using
handwriting. Microsoft Math add in
allows solving equations and graphing
2D & 3D equations in Word. Represent
structure, processes using SmartArt.
Evolve high quality information text
and research text using Word. Develop
creative projects and edit digital
pictures using Publisher.
(Achieve, Inc., 2013)





25



Technology Instructional Examples
Microsoft Access
Basic and Advanced Database,
Reporting, Design

Supporting curriculum and standards including CCSS
Mathematics, NGSS, and individual state requirements
across disciplines/ content areas and grade levels; Supports
data analysis and modeling; Develop advanced data
models, support analysis, capture data, develop reports,
conduct analysis; Support computational thinking and
informational management; synthesized knowledge and
creativity with database functionality
Microsoft Excel
Basic and Advanced High Quality
Computation, Analysis, Modeling,
Spreadsheet, Collaboration,
Communication
Supporting curriculum and standards such as Mathematics
CCSS, NGSS (Science) and ELA standards, & individual state
requirements; Develop and conduct fundamental and
advanced data analysis; develop rich data visualizations;
recognize patterns and support computational thinking with
charts and real time data from websites; Support
mathematics and science concepts using real world tools
used by researchers and employers; supporting
computational thinking activities, such as incorporating
data, visualizations, and charts, support research and
develop data to demonstrate evidence based & research
texts; Students can make edits and update content using
the accompany Office Web Apps provided under Office
365 Education.





26

Technology Instructional Examples
IT Academy, DreamSpark, Career
Forward, Kodu
Supporting curriculum and standards such as Mathematics
CCSS, NGSS (Science) and ELA standards, & individual state
requirements; Engage computational thinking, data analysis,
writing, reading, data analysis, modeling, presentations,
multimedia creation using IT Academy. Comprehensive CTE
offering supporting technology readiness and certification
initiatives with real world tools used by employers;
eLearning & teacher resources, curriculum, & software;
Students develop projects with ITA learning and take
certification exams providing them with industry recognized
certifications/credentials in addition to a high school
diploma; Easy to use visual programing language for K-5
students using Kodu as an alternative assessment, students
develop game-based projects employing computational
thinking supporting nontechnical, academic subjects- play
using Xbox
Lync
IM/Audio/Video Chat/Desktop
Sharing/Polls/ Online Whiteboards
Supporting CCSS Mathematics, NGSS (Science) and CCSS
ELA standards, & individual state requirements; Enables
synchronous, online collaboration, sharing, desktop and
document sharing, recording online meetings for video
playback, presence awareness, supporting text based
communication with individuals and groups; individual,
group and class distance learning, interview industry
experts, invite students to work on Flipped Classroom
activities after school, integrates with Microsoft Office Word,
PowerPoint, Excel, OneNote and Outlook.






27

Technology Instructional Examples
Microsoft Math 4.0
Basic and Advanced Mathematics
Graphic Calculator, step by step
equation solver
Supporting curriculum and standards such as CCSS
Mathematics, CCSS ELA and NGSS (Science) standards,
individual state requirements; Step-by-step problem
solving, develop high quality 3D and 2D graphs; Supporting
computational thinking, Support formula and triangle
equations, support remediation of mathematics; Support
computational thinking and data analysis.
Office 365 Education
Cloud-based, Secure Communication
& Collaboration, Productivity, Office
Web Apps
Supporting Mathematics CCSS ELA and NGSS (Science)
standards, individual state requirements; Online Cloud
storage, email store, IM/Audio/Video communications;
Office Web Apps; interactive distance learning, research
and engagement with other cultures on line, video/audio,
support learning needs across academic content areas and
throughout desired grade levels.
Microsoft OneNote
Easy to Use Flexible Digital Notebook
Supporting CCSS ELA, CCSS Mathematics, NGSS, and
individual state requirements across disciplines/ content
areas and grade levels; Capture video notes, audio notes,
handwritten notes, record performances, speaking,
narration, listening activities, develop writing examples,
share & coauthor notes; capture digital inked notes; Review
synchronized audio/video and notes.
Optional/Additional 3
rd
party apps
Available at the Windows and Office
Store & Side Loaded Apps
Capable of supporting multiple CCSS and individual
standards; Additionally, no cost and low cost third party
apps are also available to provide optional, added support
for this requirement if desired; Add apps for Windows and
Office to extend and customize; Add consumer, education
and third party apps supporting possibilities for existing and
new instructional tasks and workflows; Internet Explorer




28

Technology Instructional Examples
Add-in support third party website capabilities; access
publisher content, develop videos with MovieMaker,
manipulate digital images using Photo Gallery; Use
PhotoSynth to create panoramas and 3D photo
environments; Interactive Classroom used for real time
polling/interactivity with K-6 students
Microsoft Outlook 2013
Definitive email, Message &
Calendars
Supporting CCSS ELA, CCSS Mathematics, NGSS, and
individual state requirements across disciplines/ content
areas and grade levels; Enables asynchronous
communications; Manage email, calendars for student
meetings; collaborate with teachers, students and
researchers; Students can make edits and update content
using the accompany Office Web Apps provided under
Office 365 Education.

Microsoft PowerPoint
Basic and Advanced High Quality,
Interactive, multimedia Authoring,
Collaboration, Communication,
Personal Tablet, In Person, On Line
Presentations
Supporting CCSS ELA, CCSS Mathematics, NGSS, and
individual state requirements across disciplines/ content
areas and grade levels; Develop audience, on line, and
individual interactive multimedia texts and presentations,
edit video and photos inside PowerPoint; Save to HD
video, collaborate and coauthor with students, researchers,
and distant experts , presentations and publishing, present
findings with appropriate language, vocabulary supporting
listening and language activities; Students can make edits
and update content using the accompany Office Web Apps
provided under Office 365 Education.





29

Technology Instructional Examples
Microsoft Publisher
Basic and Advanced Content
Publishing, Simplified Site Design,
Creative Design
Supporting CCSS ELA, CCSS Mathematics, NGSS, and
individual state requirements across disciplines/ content
areas and grade levels; Supporting student presentations
and publishing; Supporting writing; Publisher allows
students to transform text into fine typography projects for
the screen or in print; Students use stylistic sets, and can
use new Text Effects, Picture Effects; print out photos if
needed using new Photo Center Printing.
Windows 8 & Internet Explorer
Fluid, Fast Operating System
supporting Touch, Keyboard, Mouse,
with Access to sites students and
teachers need.

Supporting CCSS ELA, CCSS Mathematics, NGSS, and
individual state requirements across disciplines/ content
areas and grade levels; Provides touch capabilities, digital
ink, equation input with digital ink, handwriting input with
digital ink; touch screen keyboard, accessibility,
speaking/narration; speech recognition; built in snipping
tool, calculator; Access publisher, content developer and
education related content; Add apps for Windows and
Office to extend and customize; Add consumer and third
party apps and supporting possibilities for existing and new
instructional tasks and workflows; Internet Explorer supports
information management, research, website browsing,
streaming, safety and security
Windows Live Movie Maker &
Photo Gallery
Digital image and movie creation and
editing
Supporting CCSS ELA, CCSS Mathematics, NGSS, and
individual state requirements across disciplines/ content
areas and grade levels; Powerful, simple digital photo
editing, import, edit and share digital photos; Quick, Fast
movie creation, edit clips, audio, add effects, and share
movies; Support creative and instructionally related digital
images and movies for use in presentations and supporting
textual evidence; Visually and audibly represent abstract and




30

Technology Instructional Examples
concrete, concepts; Incorporate across disciplines and
content areas and grade levels.
Word
Fundamental & Advanced High
Quality Authoring, Text
Development, Word Processing,
Collaboration, Communication,
Reading
Supporting ELA CCSS, Mathematics and Science CCSS,
individual state requirements, multiple language support;
built in translation tool, research tool, search tools, View
texts and video playback inside Word; Coauthor in real
time; Open PDF files, edit and save; Edit photos inside
Word; Search for Online video and photos inside Word;
Receive Readability Statistics, and interactive grammatical
and spelling feedback; communicate research findings;
Create literary, creative, technical, informational, research
and other texts; Document findings, conclusions, and
document synthesized knowledge and concepts; Manage
citations, references, and generate Works Cited and
Bibliography pages; Use during presentations and
publishing supporting listening, language and
communications tasks; Create high quality, evolve and
elaborate text; read informational and literary texts.
Students can make edits and update content using the
accompany Office Web Apps provided under Office 365
Education.
Xbox, optional Kinect sensor
Students can engage in immersive learning reinforcing
mathematics concepts, participate in afterschool programs
and stay active with Xbox & Kinect with relevant titles such as
Body and Brain, Kinect Sports, etc; Standards and curriculum
support.




31


Excel supports mathematic standards and academic workloads such as
computational thinking, modeling, and facilitates selection of appropriate
mathematics and statistics to analyze empirical situations that can be used to help
students underscore important advanced scientific and mathematic concepts.
Fundamental and advanced concepts can be demonstrated
using basic features in Excel. Additionally advanced analysis,
modeling, and functionality are possible using the built in
functionality and enhancements found in Excel. Developing
charts and graphs are possible using Excels Charts, which
allow students to easily
assemble descriptive models
and analytical models.
Statistics and probability concepts are also
supported by Excel and students may use functions
when describing data with a linear relationship.
Excel supports data analysis, collection, and
prediction scenarios with students and can be
used across many disciplines. Data can be
captured manually, such as during student
observation of an experiment, or synced over
time or in in real time from external data
sources. Described capabilities are adapted
from our public descriptions. (Microsoft, Excel, 2013)

Students get started quickly using templates.
Templates do most of the set-up and design work for students and teachers, so
they can focus on the instructional objectives. Templates for budgets, calendars,
forms, and reports, and more are available from the start.

Instant data analysis using Excels new Quick Analysis
This tool lets users convert data into a chart or table in two steps or less. Students
can preview data with conditional formatting, sparklines, or charts.




32


Flash Fill
Fill out an entire column of data with Flash Fill. Excels Flash Fill is a powerful data
assistant that analyzes data entered into the workbook.
Flash Fill enters the rest of the data following the pattern
recognized in the data.
Chart Recommendations
Create the right chart for data with Chart
Recommendations. Excel recommends the most suitable
charts for the data. Get a quick peek to see what the
data looks in the different charts, and then simply pick
the one that shows the insights desired.
Filter table data by using slicers
Slicers can now also filter data in Excel tables, query
tables, and other data tables. Simpler to set up and use,
slicers show the current filter so you will know exactly
what data is being viewed.





33







Excel Functions

The following functions found in Excel support science, technology, engineering,
and mathematics courses, supporting advanced academic tasks (Microsoft, Excel,
2013)..
Compatibility functions
Cube functions
Database functions
Date and time functions
Engineering functions
Financial functions
Information functions
Logical functions
Lookup and reference functions
Math and trigonometry functions
Statistical functions
Text functions
User defined functions that are installed with add-ins
Web functions
Please see http://office.microsoft.com/en-gb/excel-help/excel-functions-
alphabetical-HA102753227.aspx for a comprehensive listing of all functions.




34

Save and share files online
Excel makes it easier to save your workbooks to your own online location, like your
free SkyDrive or your organizations Office 365 service. It is also easier to share
worksheets with other students and teachers. No matter what device they are
using or where they are, everyone works with the latest version of a worksheet
and you can even work together in real time.
To share part of your worksheet on the web, you can simply
embed it on your web page. Other people can then work
with the data in Excel Web App or open the embedded
data in Excel.
New charting features
The new Recommended Charts button on the Insert tab lets
you pick from a variety of charts that are right for your data.
Related types of charts like scatter and bubble charts are
under one umbrella. Moreover, there is a brand new button for combo chartsa
favorite chart you have asked for. When you click a chart, you will also see a
simpler Chart Tools ribbon. With just a Design and Format tab, it is easier to find
needed functionality.
Fine tune charts quickly
Three new chart buttons let you quickly pick and preview changes to chart
elements (like titles or labels), the look, and style of the chart, or to the data that is
shown.
View animation in charts and see a chart come alive when you make changes to its
source data. Movement in the chart also makes the changes in data much clearer.
Powerful data analysis-Create a PivotTable to summarize data
Picking the right fields to summarize your data in a PivotTable report can be a
daunting task. When you create a PivotTable, Excel recommends several ways to
summarize your data, and shows you a quick preview of the field layouts so you
can pick the one that gives you the insights you are looking for.

Use multiple tables in data analysis
The new Excel Data Model lets users tap into powerful analysis features that were
previously only available by installing the PowerPivot add-in. In addition to creating
traditional PivotTables, students can now create PivotTables based on multiple
tables in Excel. By importing different tables, and creating relationships between
them, students can analyze data with results in new ways.




35

Connect to new data sources
To use multiple tables in the Excel Data Model, students can now connect to and
import data from additional data sources into Excel as tables or PivotTables. For
example, connect to data feeds like OData, Windows Azure DataMarket, and
SharePoint data feeds. Students can also connect to data sources from additional
OLE DB providers
Create relationships between tables
When students have data from different data sources in multiple tables in the Excel
Data Model, creating relationships between those tables makes it easy to analyze
data without having to consolidate it into one table. By using MDX queries, can
further leverage table relationships to create meaningful PivotTable reports.
Use a timeline to show data for different times
A timeline makes it simpler to compare PivotTable or PivotChart data over different
periods. Instead of grouping by dates, students can now simply filter dates
interactively or move through data in sequential times, like rolling month-to-month
performance, in just one simple click.
Use Drill Down, Drill Up, and Cross Drill to get to different levels of detail
Drilling down to different levels of detail in a complex set of data is not an easy
task. Custom sets are helpful, but finding them among a large number of fields in
the Field List takes time. In the new Excel Data Model, you will be able to navigate
to different levels more easily. Use Drill Down into a PivotTable or PivotChart
hierarchy to see granular levels of detail, Drill Up to go to a higher level for big
picture insights, or Cross Drill to navigate from one hierarchy to another to get
insights about data across one or more hierarchies.
Use OLAP calculated members and measures
Tap into the power of self-service Business Intelligence (BI) and add your own
Multidimensional Expression (MDX)-based calculations in PivotTable data that is
connected to an Online Analytical Processing (OLAP) cube. No need to reach for
the Excel Object Modelnow you can create and manage calculated members
and measures right in Excel.
Create a standalone PivotChart
A PivotChart no longer has to be associated with a PivotTable. A standalone or de-
coupled PivotChart lets you experience new ways to navigate to data details by
using the new Drill Down, Drill Up, and Cross Drill features. It is also much easier to
copy or move a de-coupled PivotChart.




36

New and improved add-ins and converters
PowerPivot data analysis is now built into Excel so that you students can build
simple data models directly in Excel. The PowerPivot add-in provides an
environment for creating models that are more sophisticated. Students can use
PowerPivot for Excel to filter out data when importing it, define their own
hierarchies, calculation fields, key performance indicators (KPIs).



Microsoft remains an industry leader in accessibility innovation and in building
products that are safer and easier to use. Accessibility makes it easier for students
and teachers to see, hear, and interact with a computer or phone. Moreover,
accessibility features allow students and teachers to personalize their computers in
a way that allows them to meet their own needs and learning styles, and
preferences. For many individuals with impairments, accessibility features are what
makes computer use possible. Microsofts tools use accessibility features that we
have developed and incorporates these features as part of our trustworthy
computer initiative (Accessibility in Education , 2013).

What is Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act?
"On August 7, 1998, President Clinton signed into law the Rehabilitation Act
Amendments of 1998, which covers access to federally funded programs and
services.
"The law strengthens section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act and requires access to
electronic and information technology provided by the Federal government. The law
applies to all Federal agencies when they develop, procure, maintain, or use
electronic and information technology. Federal agencies must ensure that this
technology is accessible to employees and members of the public with disabilities to
the extent it does not pose an 'undue burden. "
U.S. Access Board




37


Section 508 addresses various means for disseminating information, including
computers, software, and electronic office equipment (Section 508, 2013).
The Access Board is responsible for developing accessibility standards for such
technology for incorporation into regulations that govern Federal procurement
practices. The Access Board issued their Electronic and Information Technology
Accessibility Standards for Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act in the Federal
Register on December 21, 2000. The final standards help Federal agencies
determine whether or not a technology product or system is accessible (Microsoft
and Section 508, 2013). Many state and local governments defer to these federal
guidelines and require local education providers adhere to these same federal
standards in the practice and delivery of educational content to students.
Microsoft Windows is compatible with a wide variety of assistive technology
products such as screen readers, magnifiers, and specialty hardware that meet the
needs of computer users with all types of impairments and provide choices at every
price point. Microsoft endeavors to make Windows is an outstanding platform for
other companies to develop innovative accessible technology products.
Interoperability between assistive technology products, the operating system, and
software programs is critical for the assistive technology product to function
properly (Microsoft and Section 508, 2013).
Microsoft produces guidance regarding the
accessibility features found in Windows 8
and other Microsoft technologies.
Because Windows 8 RT tablets have many
of the same features as Windows 8, and
have tremendous battery life, schools may
explore using Windows RT tablets in the
classroom can support many instructional
requirements. Please note: It is important
to understand that Windows RT is a new
operating system that is optimized for thin, light PCs and only supports apps (and
the installation of apps) from Microsofts Windows Store. Moreover, Windows RT
has built in accessibility features built into the Operating System to help make the
tablet easier to use.
However, Windows 8, or Windows 8 Professional is required for individuals using
assistive technology software or devices. These third party tools require Windows 8,
not Windows RT. Validate the compatibility of software and devices before you
purchase new Windows devices.




38

Please explore the following resources to learn more about accessibility in
Microsofts technologies.

Microsoft Accessibility Site


Windows 8 Accessibility


Section 508 Voluntary Accessibility Templates







39



Students and teachers are able to create and evolve instructional and learning content and
participate in immersive learning with Windows 8 capabilities, such as using speech, keyboard,
mouse, digital ink (stylus), touch, multimedia, and predictive text. These OS capabilities
combined with hardware sensors (e.g., 3D accelerometer, 3D, 3D magnetometer, location, Near
Field Communication chips) deliver compelling academic experiences. These capabilities allow
students to engage with technology based on their preferences, needs, and environmental
situation and can do so in the context of their preferred learning style and associated outcomes.
Because Windows 8 delivers rich OS capabilities, there is flexibility and extended utility possible
in the instructional environment. That is to say that Windows 8 has the capacity to deliver a
wide range of interactions suitable to support educational standards and student
learning preferences and that hardware capabilities should be evaluated as
part of the hardware planning process. Certain hardware
could limit or enable a specific capability (such as using touch
requires a screen that is touch enabled). Because Windows 8
can scale to different current and legacy devices, hardware
capabilities are important when considering which device is
best for students given their learning objectives, instructional
requirements, and other needs such as IEP or assistive
device requirements.
Windows 8 and Microsoft Office provide capabilities suitable to
working with students learning styles and preferences when using
technology. Students are able to engage with technology using a
wide range of options. These options range from traditional mouse and keyboard to using
modern capabilities such as using digital ink, speech, touch, and predictive text features.

Preferences
Speech
Keyboard
Mouse
Digital Ink Touch
Multimedia
Predictive
Text




40


Education is about producing capable citizens who are workforce and college
ready. Part of getting students get ready for their future means allowing them
access to the tools they will likely encounter when they graduate high school.
Approximately 90% of the businesses around the world use Microsoft technologies.
In order to graduate globally competitive students, educational standards are
being aligned with this notion of college and career readiness as well. Windows 8
is able to support educational standards and allows students to be directed from a
consumer driven model to a creation model. With the power of a full OS, students
can enjoy the benefits of a lighter consumer device, but with the features and
capabilities found on a more powerful desktop or laptop. Students can take
advantage of the devices computing power to edit HD video, develop interactive
multimedia projects, run other modern apps, and capable older software.
Importantly, Windows 8 (and Microsoft Office as well) are cloud connected instead
of cloud reliant, so students can stay productive and continue working even if they
are not online. When students pick up a connection to the Internet, Windows 8
provides a fluid experience, connecting student to the Cloud. Additionally,
Windows 8 harnesses the power of the Cloud, and provides students with needed
sites for research, exploration, and instruction. Windows 8 embraces industry
standards, such as HTML5, and can deliver learning experiences with third party
technologies such as Flash.
Additionally, new academic workflows are possible using Windows 8 Enterprise. Students and
teachers have the ability to take advantage of USB ports including a new capability called
Windows to Go. This capability allows the desktop and files to travel on a USB stick and can be
securely accessed on capable Windows devices.
Windows 8 is about having a no compromise experience with instruction and
learning. There are options available with software and apps, and a large
ecosystem of Microsoft partners providing solutions built on Microsoft solutions
and technologies, with a host of devices and form factors to meet instructional
needs.
It is recommended that instructional technology, assistive technology, and line of
business apps and devices be tested prior to purchasing new Windows 8 devices




41

and during any upgrade process. In many cases schools will want to upgrade
existing devices from earlier versions of Windows to Windows 8 in order to
modernize the user experience and improve security. Microsoft recommends
running the Upgrade Assistant prior to upgrading to Windows 8. Scan or select the
following QR Code to get more information around upgrading to Windows 8 and
links to the Upgrade Assistant and system requirements.

Windows RT- This is a new version of Windows that provides
tremendous battery life and runs modern apps that are either built
in or installed directly from the Windows store. Windows RT runs
only on specific devices designed for this new Operating System.
Windows RT devices are typically tablet or convertible form factors that run a new,
specific and preinstalled version of Windows RT. Windows RT is a fast and fluid
version of Windows and is optimized for content portability, creation, and
consumption.
There is great instructional utility with Windows RT. Students and teachers are able
to explore, research, document, create and consume instructional content while
taking advantage of great battery life. The Schools have choice and control and
can select from various manufactures of Windows RT devices (such as Dell, Lenovo,
ASUS, Samsung, and Microsoft).
It is important to remember that Windows RT only allows users to install apps from
the Windows Store. Windows RT is not intended to be used with older versions of
software nor third party apps that are not built/preinstalled in or downloaded from
the Windows Store.
Finally, Microsoft does not recommend Windows RT for users who need assistive
devices. There are also limitations with Microsoft Office on Windows RT that should
be reviewed prior to purchase. These limitations may or may not impact
instructional tasks and should be reviewed as part of the evaluation process. Please
see also Window RT FAQ, Windows 8 RT Disclaimer and the site describing Office
Home & student 2013 RT.




42


In K-12 education, common and interdisciplinary academic workflows emerge from
codified educational standards and are incorporated into instructional technology
requirements. These workflows occur as necessary in support of Educational
Standards, such as individual state educational standards and Common Core State
Standards (MLTI, 2012). Microsoft has developed an academic workflow matrix that
provides insight regarding instructional utility with Microsoft tools and likely
workloads encountered in the instructional setting. This matrix is by no means
restrictive, limiting, or comprehensive. Indeed, it is likely that students and teachers
will continue to discover additional academic use cases and expand education
workflows, supporting future standards and instructional activities.


Workflows


Writing Reading Data Analysis
Computational
Thinking
Presentation &
Publishing
Multimedia
Creation
Information
Management




43






44









45





46






47







48





49






50



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