Educator demand for DVD products increase as more seek interactive course material

Califone International, Inc., the premier manufacturer of high-quality audio technology for the education market, today announced the introduction of five new DVD products: two DVD Learning Centers, DVD Writer/Player and Deluxe DVD Player.

Demand for DVD products in the education and library markets has steadily increased. According to Library Journal’s 2005 media survey, more than 50 percent of libraries will phase out VHS cassettes within the next one to two years. DVD circulation in libraries have increased by 91 percent over the past two years. For educators, the increased availability of textbook content and interactive course material on DVD formats is a key reason to switch. But, the DVD catalyst that may be the most promising for education innovation is the growing cadre of tech-savvy teachers creating educational films and “edited curriculum” by splicing content together to create unique lessons.

Now, Califone offers teachers, librarians and students the audiovisual tools they need to incorporate new media and exercise creative control in teaching and learning.

DVD50 Learning Center—portable DVD player with seven-inch screen and two multimedia stereo headphones and carrying case for small group instruction and for use with mobile carts
DVD105 Learning Center—portable top-loading DVD player, six multimedia stereo headphones, 10-position jackbox, and carrying case for convenient storage is suitable for classroom use, audiovisual carts and itinerant educators
DVD Writer/Player—full-size, slim-line recorder and player to provide educators with simple DVD creation capabilities with separate audio and video inputs to write from TV programming
Deluxe DVD Player—full-size single-disk player equipped with Progressive Scan function for optimal optical quality and six audio outputs for true surround sound compatibility

“Educators are increasingly using group multimedia learning in classrooms because it allows student to explore subject matter at their own pace,” said Tim Ridgway, vice president of marketing for Califone. “Plus, multimedia has the unique ability to awaken students’ intellectual curiosity and stimulate learning through compelling images and sounds.”

With the DVD Writer, educators and students can record news broadcasts for current events activities or capture TV programs to incorporate clips in multimedia presentations. The DVD Learning Centers offer educators the ability to enliven instruction in a variety of subjects from language arts to science while tailoring materials for individual students or group work.

Unlike most consumer brands, Califone offers a warranty on its DVD players that specifically covers school and library use. In addition, the products are CE approved safe for school and library use.