Expanded Learning Centers from Califone Allow
More Students to Participate

Six and eight position jackboxes offer cost-effective solutions
for classroom listening centers

San Fernando, Calif. (April 16, 2009) – Enhanced audio-based technology has created new ways for non-powered listening centers and jackboxes to strengthen differentiated group learning. Califone International, Inc., has upgraded and expanded its line of Monaural and Stereo Listening Centers, empowering educators to use computer-based small group learning to meet varying student needs.

Califone offers a variety of learning centers that feature either monaural or stereo headphones, and several systems have been upgraded. These learning centers are ideal for tutorials, literacy groups, language lessons, story time, and special education and ELL learning applications.

Stereo Listening Centers are now available with six or eight positions in addition to the existing four position listening center, which includes six or eight stereo headphones (2924AVPS). Each center is expandable to include additional students if needed with the 10-position jackbox with volume control (1210AVPS).
Monaural Listening Centers are available with six or eight positions, which include six or eight stereo headphones (2924AVP) and an 8-position jackbox with volume control (1218AVPY). The 1218AVPY is now standard for all monaural centers and replaces the 1208AVPY, which did not feature individual volume controls.

“Increased computer use in classrooms has been well documented,” shared Tim Ridgway, VP of Marketing for Califone. “This is the first instance of an audio-visual manufacturer focusing on the effect of computers on language learning.”

Based on results from a recent month-long survey on Califone.com, more than two-thirds of respondents use classroom computers for audio-assisted language learning or reading activities for more than 30 percent of their available time. “This demonstrates that computer-based learning centers have become an integral component in the classroom, substituting traditional media player-based centers. These 21st century listening centers allow teachers to create small group lessons around the computer – leveraging the power of educational software, online activities and edugames to engage students on their level,” said Ridgway.

In addition, Califone offers four other learning centers to aid classroom learning:

The first USB-based listening center is built around a USB-equipped jackbox, which has ports for connecting audio input for up to six students, enabling true two-way group podcasting. This makes it ideal for students to design and develop podcasts, practice language skills and discuss lessons with other students. Fairfax County Public Schools in Fairfax, Va., uses USB Jackboxes to engage students on multiple levels.
The Sound Alert™ Monaural Listening Center is an eight position listening center that warns the teacher and student through a bright red LED light when the audio is louder than the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s recommended 85-decibel level. This visual clue helps students learn safe listening practices. The center includes the Sound Alert Jackbox and eight 2924AVG monaural headphones.
The Listening First™ Stereo Listening Center is designed for younger students, featuring primary colors and child-sized headphones.
The Wireless Computer Listening Center is a flexible, computer-oriented learning center designed to increase the student-to-computer ratio. The expandable package includes four infrared headphones and a USB transmitter, which plugs into any computer and transmits wireless stereo to each headphone within its five-foot line-of-site range.

To order, contact a Califone dealer.

More Information

For more information on the full line of Califone products designed for the education market and safe for school and library use, call 1-800-722-0500, or visit www.califone.com to view and download the entire Califone catalog.

About Califone

Califone was founded in 1947 and continues to be a leader in the design, development and manufacturing of audiovisual and supplemental curriculum products for use in education, presentation and professional markets. The company offers a complete line of audio solutions, wireless systems and multimedia products for small, medium and large presentation needs. Califone serves millions of educators and children in the PreK through higher education school environments and has expanded to serve business and industry, houses of worship, parks and recreation, and other presentation markets as well.

Contacts

Califone^®, Inc.
Tim Ridgway
800-722-0500 ext. 428
timr at califone dot com
www.califone.com

C. Blohm & Associates, Inc.
Charlene Blohm
608-839-9800
charlene at cblohm dot com
www.cblohm.com