A lending library that specializes in tools, not books, is asking the public to help it relocate.
West Philly Tool Library has started a crowdfunding campaign to support its move from its home in Squirrel Hill. The nonprofit, which loans out over 4,5000 tools and other equipment to its members, says its lease was not renewed and it must leave by the end of 2025. It has operated out of a building at 1314 S. 47th St. for almost 15 years.
The library is now aiming to raise $20,000 to help cover “the significant costs associated with repairs and interior build-out at the new space as well as moving costs.” Staffers estimate they will need closer to $50,000 in total.
As of Friday morning, the campaign has generated a little over $5,000. Jason Sanders, the library’s executive director, said via email that the nonprofit has not received any other monetary donations yet. But several businesses, he wrote, have already pledged raffle items or food and drink donations for the West Philly Tool Library’s fundraiser on Saturday, Oct. 25.
“This is such a critical moment for the Tool Library and we are looking for support from the community,” Sanders said in a statement. “We are the only tool library in Philadelphia and it’s such an important resource to preserve — everyone deserves to have affordable and equitable access to tools and skills.”
The library’s inventory includes power and mechanical tools as well as ladders, drop cloths, gardening equipment, pressure washers, carpet cleaners and even a few books (mostly manuals). These items are available to all members, who pay annual dues. The library offers several membership tiers based on income, ranging from $20 a year to $1,000 for lifetime access.
The West Philly Tool Library also offers DIY classes on sewing, woodworking and painting, among other topics.
Welcome to The Editors’ Cut, our monthly column dedicated to all things beautiful and useful for the garden, patio, porch, and terrace. This month, as the high season wanes, the gardener turns toward quieter labors: maintenance, tidying, and other steadying tasks to prepare for the months ahead. Here, we’ve gathered the workhorse essentials for this moment, from sturdy basics to new classics. — The Gardenista Editors
Niwaki Galvanized Buckets
Above: These new buckets from Japanese tool manufacturer Niwaki have fast become our favorites. Use them to carry big drinks of water to plants the garden hose can’t reach or to gather yard debris. Shop now.
Andrée Jardin Ashwood Hand Broom
Above: Alexa bought this hand broom a few years back, and it’s proved to be an absolute must in her arsenal of garden tools: “It has super robust vegetable fiber bristles and is the only thing that really cleans up stair railings and fences around my garden.” Shop now.
A Resilient, Drought-Tolerant Seed Blend from Outsidepride
Sponsored by Outsidepride: Is there anything better than lolling on a lush patch of green grass? Just be sure that the grass you choose is durable, disease-resistant, and drought-tolerant, reducing the need for care and maintenance. Outsidepride’s specially formulated Fireball/Hattrick Ryegrass seed blend—with moisture-saving OptiGrowth seed coating—thrives in a variety of climates and grows a dense, carpet-like turf with a rich, green hue. Plant it this fall, and enjoy your dream lawn come spring. Shop now.
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape the educational landscape, teachers have a unique opportunity to model how to use it responsibly, creatively, and strategically.
Rather than viewing AI as a threat or distraction, we can reframe it as a tool for empowerment and efficiency–one that allows us to meet student needs in more personalized, inclusive, and imaginative ways. Whether you’re an AI beginner or already experimenting with generative tools, here are five ways to infuse AI into your classroom this school year:
1. Co-plan lessons with an AI assistant
AI platforms like ChatGPT, Eduaide.ai, and MagicSchool.ai can generate lesson frameworks aligned to standards, differentiate tasks for diverse learners, and offer fresh ideas for student engagement. Teachers can even co-create activities with students by prompting AI together in real time.
Try this: Ask your AI assistant to create a standards-aligned lesson that includes a formative check and a scaffold for ELLs–then adjust to your style and class needs.
2. Personalize feedback without the time drain
AI can streamline your feedback process by suggesting draft comments on student work based on rubrics you provide. This is particularly helpful for writing-intensive courses or project-based learning.
Ethical reminder: Always review and personalize AI-generated feedback to maintain professional judgment and student trust.
3. Support multilingual learners in real time
AI tools like Google Translate, Microsoft Immersive Reader, and Read&Write can help bridge language gaps by offering simplified texts, translated materials, and visual vocabulary support.
Even better: Teach students to use these tools independently to foster agency and access.
4. Teach AI literacy as a 21st-century skill
Students are already using AI–let’s teach them to use it well. Dedicate time to discuss how AI works, how to prompt effectively, and how to critically evaluate its outputs for bias, credibility, and accuracy.
Try this mini-lesson: “3 Prompts, 3 Results.” Have students input the same research question into three AI tools and compare the results for depth, accuracy, and tone.
5. Automate the tedious–refocus on relationships
From generating rubrics and newsletters to drafting permission slips and analyzing formative assessment data, AI can reduce the clerical load. This frees up your most valuable resource: time.
Pro tip: Use AI to pre-write behavior plans, follow-up emails, or even lesson exit ticket summaries.
The future of AI
AI won’t replace teachers–but teachers who learn how to use AI thoughtfully may find themselves with more energy, better tools, and deeper student engagement than ever before. As the school year begins, let’s lead by example and embrace AI not as a shortcut, but as a catalyst for growth.
Timothy Montalvo, Iona University
Timothy Montalvo is an educator passionate about leveraging technology to enhance student learning outcomes. With over a decade of experience in social studies education, he is dedicated to preparing students for active citizenship in the digital age. He currently serves as a Middle School Assistant Principal in Westchester, NY and an adjunct professor of education at Iona University in New York. He can be reached on Twitter/X @MrMontalvoEDU.
Latest posts by eSchool Media Contributors (see all)
This versatile gadget combines a number of useful measuring and drawing tools. The OMNI-R is a folding ruler with Imperial and Metric markings, and works as a protractor, compass, caliper, compass, and rollers for drawing parallel lines. In addition, it packs a long-lasting high-density graphite pencil, a bubble level, and a pop-out hobby knife.
When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Crowdfunded projects pose a degree of risk for buyers, so be sure to do your research before paying your hard-earned money.
This versatile gadget combines a number of useful measuring and drawing tools. The OMNI-R is a folding ruler with Imperial and Metric markings, and works as a protractor, compass, caliper, compass, and rollers for drawing parallel lines. In addition, it packs a long-lasting high-density graphite pencil, a bubble level, and a pop-out hobby knife.
When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Crowdfunded projects pose a degree of risk for buyers, so be sure to do your research before paying your hard-earned money.
Gadget maker MetMo dusts off a vintage vise design and turns it into a product you can buy. The fractal vice’s curved jaws slide on rails, allowing them to grip oddly shaped items with ease. MetMo’s miniature version is available with long (1.2″ max opening) or short jaws (3.2″ max opening), and is made from aluminum with stainless steel or brass jaws.
When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Crowdfunded projects pose a degree of risk for buyers, so be sure to do your research before paying your hard-earned money.
The global workforce is transforming, propelled by the dawn of the Fifth Industrial Revolution–commonly referred to as Industry 5.0. Unlike previous revolutions that focused solely on technological advancement, Industry 5.0 strongly emphasizes collaboration between humans and machines. While AI, robotics, and drones continue to push boundaries, this era also recognizes the importance of human creativity and problem-solving in conjunction with these tools.
As we prepare the workforce of the future, it becomes clear that we must rethink our approach to STEM education. It’s no longer enough to teach technical skills in isolation. Instead, we must create learning environments that foster creativity and adaptability–key traits that will help students thrive in an increasingly complex and tech-driven world.
The imperative for Industry 5.0 readiness
The rise of AI and automation is reshaping industries, creating an urgent need for students to develop technical competencies and think innovatively about how these technologies can be applied. The future workforce must be able to work alongside machines in ways we can’t even fully anticipate yet. Anticipating this demands an education system that evolves to meet future challenges–not just by focusing on coding or data analysis but by cultivating skills that will prove invaluable in navigating new, unforeseen challenges.
Hands-on STEM learning is key to this evolution. Rather than confining students to theoretical exercises, integrating real-world technologies like drones into the classroom can provide students with the physical experiences they need to better understand the evolving job market. As these young minds engage with advanced tools, they gain the technical know-how and develop the mindset required to succeed in Industry 5.0.
Why drones? Connecting STEM to real-world applications
Drones are among the most impactful ways to bring STEM education to life. Unlike traditional teaching methods, drones allow students to interface directly with technology, transforming their learning experiences from passive to active. In classrooms incorporating drones, students can experience real-world problem-solving scenarios that transcend textbook learning.
For example, drones are already playing a crucial role in industries such as agriculture, logistics, and environmental monitoring. By bringing these applications into the classroom, students are provided the opportunity to understand these technologies and explore their potential in solving pressing challenges across industries. Students can learn about everything from engineering and physics to coding and data analysis, all while working on projects with tangible, real-world implications.
Take, for instance, schools that leverage partnerships with drone providers to deploy curricula that include practical lesson plans, like surveying local farmland and analyzing soil conditions to help improve crop yields. These projects go beyond theoretical knowledge, teaching students to apply data analytics in meaningful ways. In another example, high school students can design drones to support healthcare initiatives, like delivering medical supplies to remote areas–projects that mirror innovations currently being explored in healthcare logistics. These experiences prepare students for real-world careers and illuminate career pathways that may not have otherwise been obvious or desirable options.
Bridging the skills gap with experiential learning
Verticalized skills gaps have become a significant barrier to innovation and economic growth, as many students are graduating without the technical and critical thinking abilities demanded by today’s employers. The gap is particularly evident in data analysis, programming, advanced manufacturing, and cybersecurity–fields that are essential for navigating the complexities of the modern digital economy.
This gap continues to widen as technological advancements outpace traditional education methods. In a world increasingly driven by data, students need to learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret information to make informed decisions. Introducing project-based learning centered around data analysis–such as interpreting data sets from environmental studies or designing experiments that involve data collection–gives students hands-on experience in this critical skill area.
As work becomes increasingly global and cross-functional, students must develop the ability to communicate effectively in diverse teams. Experiential learning projects, such as team-based STEM competitions or group technology builds, teach students the importance of working together toward shared goals while honing their communication skills, mirroring the collaborative environments they will encounter in the workforce.
Incorporating creativity and human ingenuity in Industry 5.0
Technical skills are essential, but the distinguishing factor of Industry 5.0 is the synergy between human ingenuity and machine precision. Our ability to innovate and collaborate with machines to solve complex problems will mark this era. Schools should focus on fostering creativity alongside technical training, as the future workforce will be called upon to design new solutions, lead teams, and tackle challenges that have yet to emerge.
Schools can consider integrating design thinking into their curriculum, where students engage in iterative processes to ideate, prototype, and test solutions to complex problems. In a classroom setting, students could use design thinking to create smart home devices that integrate human comfort with AI precision, focusing on user-centric solutions.
Entrepreneurship courses in schools will empower students to develop tech startups where they identify a societal problem, design a technological solution, and pitch their idea to judges, peers, and even potential investors. This encourages both creativity in coming up with new ideas and collaboration with technology to make ideas a reality.
The classroom as a catalyst for the future workforce
As we move deeper into Industry 5.0, the demand for a workforce that can blend technical skills with innovative problem-solving increases. Integrating hands-on technology like drones into educational environments offers a dynamic way to address this need. It allows students to connect with STEM fields practically and inspiringly. Educators have the crucial responsibility to provide students with the necessary tools and perspectives. By incorporating creative, physical, and project-based lessons into the curriculum, we foster the innovation, adaptability, and collaboration essential for the future workforce.
Rob Harvey, FTW Robotics
Rob Harvey is a brand builder with more than 20 years of experience elevating unique voices and guiding industry leaders to new technologies. His ability to identify gaps in the market led him to pivot to education, where he recognized a need for better STEM and computer science-based education technology. As executive chairman and cofounder of For The Win Robotics, he pioneered the Build | Fly | Code program and released a first-of-its-kind curriculum to schools across the United States.
Latest posts by eSchool Media Contributors (see all)
This gadget from the makers of the NeoRuler Go is a laser level that grabs onto vertical surfaces using vacuum suction. It even holds on bumpy surfaces, and its bright laser beams make it easy to hang pictures, install cabinets, and do other things that need precise alignment. The combo kit includes a measuring unit that piggybacks onto the level.
Crowdfunded projects pose a degree of risk for buyers, so be sure to do your research before paying your hard-earned money.
SAN FRANCISCO –Edthena is transforming the video coaching process for educators with the launch of VC3, the next evolution of the company’s award-winning video coaching platform. VC3 features new coaching tools that empower teachers and instructional coaches to collaborate more efficiently, gain deeper insights into instructional practice, and engage in more meaningful professional learning.
“Educators have one of the hardest jobs in the world and they deserve access to the most innovative solutions possible to support their work,” said Adam Geller, founder and CEO of Edthena. “With VC3, educators can more effectively reflect on their practice and access the high-quality coaching needed to ensure their success—and, ultimately, the success of their students—in the classroom.”
The reimagined video coaching platform draws upon Edthena’s 14 years of experience helping educators add more than two million comments to nearly seven million minutes of classroom video.
The core of the coaching experience happens within the video conversation page. This is where educators add timestamped feedback to videos of classroom teaching. Not only does the updated conversation page in VC3 make it easier to leave comments, but it also encourages teachers and coaches to deepen their reflections. One example of this emphasis is the Insights tab which helps jumpstart the video analysis process for both coaches and teachers.
The Insights tab includes several tools: open-ended questions that help inspire the observer for what to look for in the video; a student-to-teacher talk time graph to support a deep-dive into student engagement, language development, and confidence; and, a visual representation of the most frequently used words within the lesson to get a sense for the presence of academic language.
“With the help of Edthena, we are harnessing the power of video and innovative AI tools to level up our coaching practices,” said Amanda Maceo, professional development implementation strategist for Alief Independent School District. “We love the automatic summaries and closed captioning—they provide us with valuable insights. Plus, the talk time graph makes it easy to set clear and measurable goals for improvement.”
The VC3 experience is available to all new and existing users. This includes schools, districts, and teacher education programs from more than 20 states and multiple countries that use Edthena to make video observation an integral part of teacher induction, teacher mentoring, professional learning communities (PLCs), and peer observation.
“Video reflection and facilitative coaching play a pivotal role in the professional development process for teacher residents,” said Halley Maza, an instructor in the University at Buffalo Teacher Residency program. “By leveraging Edthena’s VC3 platform, our program empowers teacher residents to analyze and refine their instructional strategies, fostering self-efficacy through critical reflection and collaborative learning. This approach aligns with our goal of improving student outcomes and preparing educators to meet the diverse needs of their students.”
Edthena provides innovative technologies to support educator professional learning by streamlining feedback to teachers. The companyoffers the AI Coach platform, an artificial intelligence-driven solution to guide teachers through coaching cycles; VC3, the classroom observation and collaboration platform for video coaching; and Edthena Organization Libraries, a platform for schools and districts to curate and share best-practice teaching videos. Edthena is the recipient of numerous awards from organizations such as SIIA, District Administration, and Tech & Learning. For more information, visit www.edthena.com. For more news about Edthena, visit www.edthena.com/blog/.
eSchool Media staff cover education technology in all its aspects–from legislation and litigation, to best practices, to lessons learned and new products. First published in March of 1998 as a monthly print and digital newspaper, eSchool Media provides the news and information necessary to help K-20 decision-makers successfully use technology and innovation to transform schools and colleges and achieve their educational goals.
The right-to-repair movement has a catchy name, but before you can worry about the right to repair, you need the ability to repair. If you don’t know how to take your device apart, there’s no sense worrying about whether it’s legal to do so. Without basic repair skills and a helping of innate curiosity, the right to repair is useless.
This is where iFixit’s new Hub Soldering Iron enters the fray. iFixit, a longtime supporter of the right to repair, has thousands of tutorials online to help you actually repair things. Now the company has made a soldering iron to help you roll up your sleeves and get into the physical world of repair.
The Right to Solder
I grew up around soldering. My father built his own tube-powered ham radio gear, but for whatever reason I never actually did any soldering until rather late in my repair life. An electrician friend of mine was appalled that I didn’t solder on a regular basis and gifted me a bare-bones soldering iron, which was all I had for an embarrassingly long time. Later I bought a Pinecil, mostly for the small, portable form factor, but that cheapo soldering iron was all I had for years.
While a cheap soldering iron is better than no soldering iron, I’ve come to think the reason many people are intimidated by soldering, or have problems when they first try it, is due to cheap soldering pens. Cheap tools are the source of many a problem, but with soldering irons the big one is that they don’t get hot enough, which makes the solder stick to the tip rather than flowing nicely where you want it. Cheap irons also lack interchangeable tips, which make soldering easier by fitting exactly where you want them to go.
iFixit, which made its name in the repair world creating guides, tutorials, and more all designed to help consumers be more than consumers, has launched a new store called the Fix Hub. The first product is a portable USB-C soldering iron.
Photograph: Scott Gilbertson
iFixit’s new soldering iron is actually several products. The core is the Smart Soldering Iron for $80. It’s powered by USB-C and comes with a beveled, 1.5-mm tip. (There are six tips available, and iFixit plans to have more.) Then there’s the Portable Soldering Station for $250, which includes the iron and a battery pack designed for the iron. The final option is the Complete Toolkit for $300, which includes everything from the soldering station package, plus useful tools like wire strippers, flush cutters, solder, flux, a wire holder, cleaner, and more.
The thing that jumps out at you the most when first opening the kit is the magnetic cap. This is a thing of genius. It not only covers the tip, but you can put it on even when the tip is hot, and it will automatically power down to the idle temperature (which you can set in the app). Every soldering iron should have a cap like this. This feature alone makes iFixit’s soldering iron great for beginners. The cap also has a wire attachment that allows it to be mounted on the battery pack.
There are other user-friendly features, like an LED system that warns you when the iron is hot and motion sensors to detect when you set it down for a while (which cause it to automatically shut off). The motion sensors can also detect if you drop it and will shut it off automatically. I tested all three of these features, and they worked without issue.
I have a core childhood memory of standing in the expansive yard of a family friend who lived out in farm country, trying to get their old gas mower to start. I tugged the pull cord in vain for what seemed like hours, the engine rolling over lazily without ever spinning to life.
So there was no question I was going to be an early and enthusiastic adopter of electric lawnmowers, making the switch right around the same time I replaced my VHS tapes with Blu-ray.
I’ve had at least six electric mowers since—some plug-ins, some battery-powered. At one point I even hacked a Homelite mower I liked except for its underpowered proprietary battery, by soldering its connectors to a better lithium battery (I probably did my math wrong; the battery melted). Every one of those electric mowers felt like it sacrificed something you could get from a traditional internal combustion engine mower, trading an annoying extension cord or underpowered battery for instant start, less noise, and no smoke.
That is, until the Greenworks 60V 21-inch self-propelled lawn mower, which I’ve been testing on my lawn this summer. After four months of testing I’ve found this model from Greenworks does everything I need a mower to do to my Midwestern lawn, and does it with grace. If you’re a lawn enthusiast I’m sure there are mowers with more options and features to consider. But I don’t want to think too much about my mower—I just want to push a button, walk around my yard, chop a few inches off the top of my grass, then roll it back into the garage. This Greenworks mower is the first electric mower I’ve owned that does that.
Sixty Beats Forty
The first thing I want to know about an electric mower is how easy it is to handle the battery. I’m sure I’m not alone in being past corded electric mowers that, until a few years ago, still offered the best combination of power and price. The Greenworks has dual battery ports that will each hold a 60V battery, though I’ve only used one. That 5-Ah battery provides enough power to cut my small lawn two times with turbo on or three and a half times on standard. My lawn only has about 3,000 square feet of grass, though, and in the United States, residential lawns average about 10,000 square feet, according to Home Advisor. (If you live in Vermont or Montana you will probably want that second battery.) The advertised range is up to an acre, which is 43,560 square feet, but even with both batteries fully and freshly charged I would not expect to get there based on my range in testing.
Photograph: Martin Cizmar
Because it’s a 60V system, it has more power than the more common 40V systems, which makes a big difference when it comes to dealing with leaves. With a peak power output of 3200 RPMs (toward the top of the standard range for a gas mower) using the turbo mode, I’ve found the Greenworks has enough power to mulch leaves, though long wet grass drained the battery much faster than I would have expected—a leftover half-charge on a single battery wasn’t enough to finish my small yard.
The pace of the modern workplace can really pick up speed these days with all our digital ways of getting things done. Finding ways to work efficiently is more important than ever.
It’s important we take a look at the tools that can help make our jobs a little less hectic.
Let’s discuss some options that could help streamline how we work and boost our productivity.
Knowing what’s out there can really help us save time and energy for what matters most.
1. OnPay
OnPay helps with handling payroll and all things HR. It looks like it takes the complicated stuff, like payroll, taxes, and benefits, and streamlines it through solid automation.
Employees probably love the self-service portal too – it gives them easy access to their info and builds more transparency. As a business, it takes compliance worries off your plate since OnPay keeps up with changing tax rules. That’s a big relief!
I can see why HR loves OnPay. Connecting with other accounting and time-tracking tools lets them spend more time on growth plans versus paperwork.
Pretty cool that it pulls everything together in one handy place. If you’re looking for ways to simplify processes and comply with everything, OnPay sounds like it deserves a good look. If you want to learn more about this one, click here.
2. Respona
Respona is really helpful for teams doing a lot with link-building and PR campaigns. It automates the whole outreach process from finding new contacts to sending follow-up messages.
I like that it has a built-in search tool to efficiently uncover people to engage with. And keeping email addresses accurate as you communicate saves a lot of headaches later on.
The automation is probably a lifesaver for PR teams. Instead of spending hours on routine tasks, they can focus their energy on creative content and strategy. No wonder it boosts productivity and campaign success!
For agencies with multiple clients, Respona’s tools must be a dream come true. Being able to execute precise campaigns across the board with minimal manual work would save so much stress. Definitely one tool I’d recommend checking out.
3. ProofHub
ProofHub looks like it could be great for teams juggling lots of different projects at once. Having all your task and project management in one central place must streamline everything.
I like that it offers tools for delegating work, setting timelines, and tracking hours. That level of organization probably helps everyone stay accountable and on schedule.
Customizing workflows and visual task views seem perfect for managers to spot where things are backing up and redistribute work smoothly. Communication and file sharing features also keep important info flowing between team members.
Keeping all projects coordinated without overwhelm is so important. ProofHub sounds like it could really help project teams stay aligned on objectives without losing sight of the details. Definitely one tool worth checking and demoing if you want all your project management in one helpful hub.
4. Shift
The Shift is a real game-changer for the way we navigate the digital world. Instead of hopping between a million different sites and apps, it brings everything together in one slick interface.
I can see how the search and calendar tools would make tasks way more seamless without constant tab switching. Organizing your tools into focused “workspaces” probably cuts out a ton of clutter and prevents distractions too.
For folks who rely on various software daily, Shift’s centralization could be a huge timesaver. No more minutes wasted moving between programs – everything’s streamlined in one place.
It’s like Shift revolutionizes how we manage our online lives. Having all accounts and resources so neatly organized has to seriously boost productivity. For anyone drowning in tabs or apps, this sounds like it’s really worth a look.
5. Todoist
Todoist is one of the best tools for wrangling all your work into order. With it, you can build custom task lists, adjust priority levels, and categorize projects to stay on top of daily duties and long-term goals.
I know workflow is key – that’s why Todoist integrates with tons of other apps so well. Bounce between devices and programs without missing a beat. One place to manage everything is clutch.
Whether you’re working solo or on a massive team, Todoist’s intuitive layout and options make it extremely versatile too. The app speaks your language no matter what kind of tasks you face.
Complex schedules got you down? Todoist helps you break projects into bite-sized pieces that feel totally manageable. Finally getting organized is such a game-changer for productivity – and Todoist makes it a breeze.
6. Trello
Trello is such a cool way for teams to map out projects visually. With its boards and card setup, you can effortlessly track progress by dragging tasks between columns as milestones are hit.
I like that setting up boards keeps everything neatly organized by project too. The automation features are clutch – things like automatic reminders and status updates save so much time.
Can you imagine how much smoother meetings must go when issues are right there on the board? No confusion about where things stand. Collaborating in real-time has to make the process way more engaging.
If you want a simple, visual tool that streamlines project tracking without all the fuss, Trello is an amazing pick. I can see why it’s beloved by so many teams.
7. Slack
Slack has totally changed the game for how teams connect and share info. Instead of endless email chains and meetings, it pulls all your conversations into one handy place that’s simple to search.
I love how it lets you split into channels based on topic too. Direct messages are great for private chats. And wow, being able to connect apps must take collaboration to the next level.
No more digging for that snippet someone said last week. With Slack, important discussions and quick updates live right at your fingertips. That kind of accessibility has to streamline workflows like nothing else.
It’s easy to see why Slack is such a go-to in today’s workplace. Whether you’re debating details or sharing status checks, it supports natural communication in ways that boost productivity for good. An absolute must-have for modern teams!
8. Asana
Asana is a super helpful way for teams to stay synced on all their projects. You can craft detailed to-do lists, set timelines, and delegate work – keeping tabs on tasks is that much smoother.
I like that you can customize the workflows too. That level of flexibility probably helps projects run extra smoothly. Tracking progress is key for keeping everyone accountable.
Managers must love how Asana gives clear visibility into where things stand. No more guessing if delays are creeping in. Just make sure everyone’s on the same page.
Coordinating teams can feel like herding cats some days. Asana’s tools look perfect for maintaining that alignment and driving true collaboration. When you need rock-solid project management, this one is a no-brainer.
9. Google Workspace
Google Workspace is incredible for taking teamwork to the next level. With apps like Gmail, Drive, Docs, and Calendar all connected, collaborating is seamless.
Sharing files and scheduling meetings between teams is effortless. And I love that Workspace lets you access everything from anywhere – talk about flexibility!
The interface is super intuitive too. No learning curves there. And those collaboration perks have to seriously optimize how businesses operate.
When streamlining is the name of the game, Google Workspace is unbeatable. Foster that cooperative spirit while boosting productivity. Yes, please! If you want powerful yet easy tools for teams, this is the suite for you.
I love that you can capture any type of info from scribbles to web pages. Talk about an all-in-one brain dump! Having important stuff so easily searchable is such a time-saver too.
Maybe you’re someone who’s always scrambling to find that one note. Or always starting projects from scratch since your files are buried. Evernote puts an end to that madness for good.
Productivity and efficiency are within reach when you can rely on Evernote to be your trusted second brain.
The Bottom Line
This Image Is Generated by Midjourney
Picking the right work tools is so important these days when everything moves a million miles an hour.
The apps mentioned really do make adapting much easier.
Each one offers unique ways to smooth out processes, foster teamwork, and optimize how you spend your time.
Sarah writes about all things shopping for Apartment Therapy, The Kitchn, and Cubby helping you find the best deals and the best products for you and your home. A Brooklyn-born Jersey Girl, she loves a good playlist, a good bagel, and her family (but not necessarily in that order).
While the acronym AI continued to take up the most oxygen in the convention hall this summer in Denver, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies continue to evolve as a practical classroom application as well. I was happy to have my annual VR state-of-play conversation Chris Klein, vice president of education at Avantis Education, who is frank about the potentials and pitfalls of these tools. Have a listen:
Avantis is the creator of ClassVR, an all-in-one VR/AR headset and content platform designed specifically for K-12 classrooms. Used by more than 2 million students in 200,000 classrooms in 90 countries, it includes all hardware, software, tools, training, support and implementation services needed to deploy VR/AR in the classroom. It also provides access to the Eduverse platform, ClassVR’s library of content which gives teachers access to hundreds of thousands of pieces of VR and AR content and resources to enhance lessons and engage students more deeply in their learning.
Key Takeaways:
Evolution of AR and VR: From novelty to educational tool, AR and VR continue to integrate into mainstream education, enhancing engagement and learning outcomes.
Educational Integration: AR and VR serve as supplements to traditional teaching methods, enriching lessons without disrupting established curricula.
Future Hardware Development: Avantis teases a prototype of a device at ISTI, signaling a commitment to evolving hardware that aligns closely with educational needs and educator feedback.
Industry Standards: The arrival of major players like Apple and Meta in the AR and VR space is expected to set industry standards and improve interoperability across platforms, benefiting educators and students alike.
New this year: ClassVR is launching Eduverse360 –an expanded library featuring more than 300,000 360° images and videos from around the globe allowing teachers to take students on compelling, immersive field trips without leaving the classroom. Responding to increased demand for curriculum-aligned content across all subjects, new math resources are also being designed to make learning relevant, accessible, and fun. Popular English resources have been expanded to support English language teaching for K-2 and English as an additional language. While in biology students can shrink down to insect size to see pollination in action like never before.
Avantis also introduced software enhancements designed to improve the user experience. These updates include:
A redesigned homepage that features curated playlists and subject-based browsing for easier navigation.
ClassVR’ s teacher and student notes can now be viewed in a sidebar alongside the VR content, enhancing the educational experience.
Teachers will also benefit from the dynamic preview of 3D models, allowing them to quickly assess and view models with just a few clicks.
User and content management enhancements, including streamlined administrator management of playlists and updates to administrator controls.
New professional development options. Beginning July 1, 2024, all customers get free access to Avantis’ online continuing professional development (CPD) training materials to assist them with self-paced instruction on how to use ClassVR. New customers also have expanded options for training packages.
Kevin is a forward-thinking media executive with more than 25 years of experience building brands and audiences online, in print, and face to face. He is an acclaimed writer, editor, and commentator covering the intersection of society and technology, especially education technology. You can reach Kevin at KevinHogan@eschoolnews.com
Never be caught without it, this Pro Trucker’s Friend Multitool is a must have for when you are outdoors. It features a hammer, axe, pry bar and much more so you are never caught with your pants down outdoors. It’s designed and made to last and is perfect for camping, hiking, survivalists or any other outdoor activities.
Wickedgadgetry.com is a participant in the Amazon Associates Program, an affiliate program that allows sites to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
Keeping your kitchen tidy and organized is a constant struggle that — especially if you live in a small apartment like me — you’re probably very familiar with. There’s the endless pile of dirty dishes, the sea of different-size coffee mugs, and the dreaded junk drawer found in nearly every home. Of course, you probably have your own organizational methods specific to your space, but you can only tidy so much before you need to start investing in some hardware. Luckily, there are a ton of high-quality organizers out there that make the never-ending job of keeping your kitchen neat a whole lot easier. One of the places in your kitchen that gets the most jumbled? Your cutlery drawer. That’s why we’re so excited to share with you one of our favorite customizable decluttering products that is sure to instantly bring some order to your kitchen drawers: the Lifewit Expandable Silverware Drawer Organizer.
What Is the Lifewit Expandable Silverware Drawer Organizer?
This drawer organizer is perfect for drawers of all shapes and sizes, since you can adjust the size of the organizer to fit your particular space. When fully expanded, the cutlery box dimensions are 22.4x15x2 inches, and when fully folded, it reduces to 13x15x2 inches. It’s also made from sturdy and chic BPA-free material that’s easy to clean and matches any and every kitchen aesthetic. Plus, at just under $19, it’s a total steal.
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
I’ve always been a toaster guy — when I moved in with my girlfriend, the first hill I chose to die on was keeping my old two-slot toaster, since I have two pieces of multigrain bread with eggs every morning for breakfast. However, I’ve never been a toaster oven guy, since I always thought my regular oven could handle whatever I needed to toast or roast. Over the years, my position on that softened (I also moved into an apartment with a comically small oven that takes forever to preheat), so I broke down and got an air fryer, which turned out to be a great addition to my kitchen. Recently, though, I had my mind changed again by a very special appliance from Panasonic: the FlashXpress Toaster Oven. It’s sleek, cool-looking, and seriously effective — plus, it has a few features that set it apart from the rest of the competition. (And, it’s on sale right now!)
What Is the Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster Oven?
This compact, easy-to-use toaster oven from Panasonic lets you toast, bake, brown, and reheat — no preheat required. It features two infrared oven heating elements, a spacious design, and six preset cooking functions. The baking rack is also connected to the oven door, which pulls the rack toward you as the door is opened so you don’t have to stick your hand inside and risk burning yourself. Plus, the auto shut-off helps prevent overcooking and burning. And, at just 13x12x10.25 inches, it’s a dream for small spaces and apartment kitchens.
Why I Love the Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster Oven
I was immediately sold on this toaster oven after whipping up some sourdough toast. It was so quick, easy, and effective, I knew this was going to be a great addition to my apartment kitchen. It also helps that it’s cool-looking in a minimalist way, it’s incredibly easy to clean, and has a surprisingly deep cooking area. My favorite part is that when you turn the light on, whatever you’re toasting is strikingly visible because of the crystal-clear glass, which can help you keep an eye on the level of browning. It also tucks neatly into a corner since it’s not superwide like most toaster ovens. I’m not the only one who’s a fan, either. “I bought mine three years ago,” one reviewer wrote. “It is so accurate, and so useful I almost never use the full oven I have next to it OR the microwave. It uses infrared elements so there is no preheat required. Just instant on. It is just big enough to take an 11-cup Pyrex rectangular baking dish, so it can cook a meal for 4. The digital timed bake means you can set and forget. It is tiny but seems roomy on the inside … It honestly is all you need unless you have a big family.”
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
Now through May 27, Solo Stove’s Memorial Day sale features discounts up to 30% off sitewide. The one fire pit we’ve got our eyes on is the best-selling Bonfire 2.0, down to just $229.99 from the original $299.99 price tag.
The smokeless fire pit is safe for decks, patios, driveways, and even the beach, although you should always take necessary safety precautions and never leave it unattended. The Bonfire comes with a removable base plate and ash pan for convenience and easy cleanup, as well as a carrying case for portability. The fire pit comes in a stainless steel version, which is also the least expensive, as well as a handful of saturated colors, all of which are currently discounted.
While the Bonfire is still an investment on sale, it’s been a worthwhile one for a few editors here at The Kitchn. Former Deputy Editor Kelly Dawson has the Bonfire 2.0 and loves how it amps up the coziness factor in her outdoor space. Contributor Stephanie Ganz has an earlier edition of the Bonfire (aptly called the 1.0) and has been using it for about four years now. She writes that the fire pit has changed how she uses her backyard, especially during spring and summer when she and her family are eating and hanging outside often. Homemade pizza, s’mores — you name it, she’s made it over her Bonfire.
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
I was talking to a friend recently who serves as the CTO at a mid-sized company and was struck by his sudden change in perspective on AI. Despite initial skepticism, he now believes artificial intelligence (AI) will revolutionize his industry. Yet, his main challenge has been convincing the rest of his executive team to adopt an AI roadmap. This scenario isn’t isolated.
In the last year, we’ve seen a contracted hype cycle around AI, which has caused many leaders to question if an investment in AI can truly yield proportional returns. These concerns aren’t without merit. VC firm Sequoia Capital recently estimated the AI industry spent $50 billion on Nvidia chips to train AI models last year, yet only yielded $3 billion in revenue.
Despite that disparity in investment, Sequoia went on to hypothesize AI is likely “the single greatest value creation opportunity” mankind has ever known, comparing its impact on business to that of the cloud transition. Unlike the cloud, however, which replaced software, AI has the potential to replace services, which the VC firm estimated has a total addressable market in the trillions. It’s the reason tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon continue to double down on AI investment.
With so many competing narratives around the future of AI, it’s no wonder companies are misaligned on the best approach for integrating it into their organizations. The problem is most leaders are still looking at AI in its limited capacity as a software or tool rather than its ability to operate in a human-like capacity. Here are three common mistakes I see companies make when it comes to implementing an AI roadmap.
Underestimating and limiting AI’s potential
AI is widely viewed as a tool or software, but because it can create and reason, it has the ability to interact in a human-like capacity. Much like a junior employee who gets better at their job with experience, AI has the ability to learn from its interactions and refine its methods to improve its output and take on more work overtime.
For this reason, leaders who think of leveraging AI as “smart people” rather than software are better positioned to harness its full potential. Think about a company’s organization chart. If you were to write down the skills and tasks associated with each employee, then you can start to visualize where AI can be trained to augment or automate these tasks.
AI already outperforms humans in areas such as image classification, visual reasoning, and even English understanding, according to Stanford University’s recently published AI Index report. As of 2023, the report showed AI has surpassed human-level performance on several benchmark tasks, succeeding in helping workers become more productive and produce better-quality work. Another study out of the University of Arkansas showed AI outperformed humans in standardized tests of creative potential.
Unlike humans, however, AI scales up effortlessly as business demands increase, handling workloads without the physical and mental limits of humans. Adopting AI in this way means rethinking our team structures and workflows. It involves training teams to work alongside AI to enhance their roles and drive innovation.
This perspective shift is crucial because it allows leaders, who may not be accustomed to deploying technology themselves, to innately understand how to best leverage AI across their entire organization.
2. Trying to mimic another company’s AI use case
The more you start thinking of AI as smart people, the more you realize how individual every organization’s approach to building an AI roadmap should be. I like to think of AI implementation as the onboarding of new team members who need to fit within the specific dynamics of your company.
Take human resources for example — one company might have 10 people there; another only three, even if they’re the same size. This difference isn’t just about company size or revenue. It’s about how these companies have evolved.
Each business has its own unique structure, culture and needs. In order to realize generative AI’s full potential, PwC reported, businesses must take advantage of its capacity to be customized to a company’s specific needs and avoid the use-case trap.
Of course, general use cases for AI exist, particularly when it comes to enhancing customer service or sales. But, when you’re looking at a deeper integration of AI into a company’s operations, the approach needs to be custom-built, not copied and pasted from outside case studies.
3. Buying off-the-shelf products — not tailoring AI solutions to your needs
There are some great off-the-shelf AI products like ChatGPT, Dalle, and translation tools that solve specific problems within a company. The challenge with investing in a boxed solution for AI is that many leaders fail to see how AI can enhance operations at a systemic level.
The true power of AI lies in its ability to fundamentally transform your operations, not just perform isolated tasks. PwC’s 2024 AI predictions report states that many companies will find attractive ROI from generative AI. Still, few will succeed in achieving transformative value from it — the biggest barrier being the inability of leaders to think beyond boxed solutions and reimagine the way they work with AI.
When building an AI roadmap, leaders must first conduct a thorough assessment of their company’s processes. This means identifying areas with redundancies, recognizing outsourced tasks that could be automated, and pinpointing where the company invests heavily in human capital. By understanding these dynamics, leaders can tailor AI solutions to their company’s needs and transform how they work.
The more I talk to company leaders about integrating AI into their businesses, the more apparent it becomes that we leaders need to shift our perspective. When we view AI not just as a technological upgrade but as the onboarding of smart people, we’re better able to integrate it into our internal operations, enhancing performance and human ingenuity along the way.
This Nite Ize gadget makes quick work of tying down objects. It has a carabiner clip on one side and a ratcheting cam mechanism for tightening a length of rope. It can work in a fixed-end or looped configuration and has a working load limit of 250 lb. The kit includes 10 feet of smooth-gliding 1/4″ rope.
