DyKnow Software Suite Expands Active Directory, Blackboard Integration

• By David Nagel
• 05/30/08

Interactive classroom technology provider DyKnow this week released an update to its DyKnow Software Suite. The new release, version 5.1, includes updates to both components of the suite, DyKnow Vision and DyKnow Monitor, along with general administrative enhancements.

DyKnow Vision is a tool for collaborative note taking, student response, and content access. DyKnow Monitor is a system for wireless networks that allows instructors to block applications from running on students' computers and blank out student screens when the instructor doesn't want the student to be distracted. It displays a thumbnail of each student's screen on the instructor's monitor, providing control over the student's computers.

While the previous 5.0 release added integration with Blackboard learning management systems, the new 5.1 release now allows admins to combine Blackboard rosters with Active Directory user IDs and passwords.

The new version of Monitor also includes real-time screen shots for displaying students' screens; a remote control feature for taking control of students' machines; and direct file transfers to students' computers.

The updates in Vision include an updated UI with a Microsoft Office-like look and feel; audio recording; the ability to store recorded audio on servers for playback by students later; new polling features, including the ability to log student answers; the ability to force save students' work; and the ability to customize thumbnail sizes.

The new suite also provides support for customizing grade cycles.

Further information about the DyKnow Software Suite 5.1 is available here. New server requirements (in light of the new audio recording capabilities) will be posted soon, according to the company.