As schools and learning institutions around the country close to lessen the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), school districts and teachers are implementing distance learning (or remote learning) techniques to maintain education continuity.
Students of all ages are now transitioning to learning from home, and the right tools can make all the difference.
Here, we’ve collected our top picks for equipping your distance learning setup, and for keeping kids learning and busy at home.
A powerful laptop:
All-day connectivity, live streamed classes, and virtual classroom interaction all require a powerful machine to work. With a 9th-Gen 8-Core Intel i9 processor, a retina display with True Tone technology, and an AMD Radeon Pro 5500M graphics, Apple’s 16-Inch MacBook Pro with Touch Bar is well-equipped to handle the task.
A learning-friendly tablet:
For a portable option, a lightweight Apple iPad mini 4 will do the trick. The 0.67-pound tablet is loaded with an A8 chip to power all necessary apps, fast and wireless connectivity for keeping you powered into class, and iOS 9 to keep the experience intuitive and easy to operate.
A tablet stand:
Make your setup even more mobile and convenient. Secure your tablet into a handy stand — like this Square Jellyfish Metal Tablet Tripod Mount — to display the screen conveniently and without hassle.
Noise-cancelling headphones:
Keep your focus on the learning with a pair of noise cancelling headphones that block out all outside distractions. The Bose QuietComfort 35 II‘s are a user-favorite, renowned for their comfortable over-the-ear earpiece cups, built-in Google Assistant, and, of course, acoustic noice cancelling technology.
A wireless mouse:
If you’re working on a laptop throughout the day, you know how significantly more comfortable a wireless mouse is to operate. Ease wrist and hand discomfort by investing in a comfortable mouse, like the Logitech M510 Wireless USB mouse, which features intuitive controls, laser grade tacking, all in a wireless and comfort-guaranteeing form factor.
A wireless keyboard:
Just like a wireless mouse, a wireless keyboard is essential to keeping a workspace efficient and cord-free. The Logitech K350 Advanced 2.4GHz Wireless Keyboard not only features instant media access and programmable keys to keep your controls at your fingertip, but also includes a curved profile and cushioned palm rest for comfortable hand placement.
A surge protector:
If a more-than-usual number of members in your household are learning or working from home, ensure that power disturbances are avoided with the help of a surge protector. This APC SurgeArrest 8-Outlet Surge Protector features two USB charging ports to power your devices, eight outlets, and guarantees surge protection and keeps your connected electronics safe from surges, spikes, and lightning.
A multimedia speaker system:
Upgrade your home office audio for improved listening. This Bose Companion 20 Multimedia Speaker System is loaded with the company’s TrueSpace technology to bring immersive, natural sound to your home. A built-in headphone jack allows for direct wired connectivity.