How a Modest USB Will Change Learning Offline: Endless OS Launches the Endless Key
As communities prepare for long-term remote education, many new online platforms are emerging to augment student learning. But what about communities that have little or no access to broadband internet?
The Endless OS Foundation has partnered with Common Sense and Learning Equality to launch the not-for-profit Endless Key initiative to develop a high-performance USB Key that allows students and families to access educational resources offline. It provides a robust, universal and safe digital learning environment with high quality and engaging learning materials, resources and apps that can be accessed offline (without internet) by students using Mac or Windows computers.
The Endless Key comes loaded with pre-reviewed learning applications, including Khan Academy, Blockly, and the Kiwix reader, which provides a searchable offline Wikipedia. The 64-gigabyte Key also includes the parent and educator approved Endless OS, featuring the Hack playground where kids learn digital skills in a safe and autonomous environment, fun coding games, and open source applications for productivity and creativity. Packaged in a durable plastic pouch, the Key can be snapped into a student’s binder and integrated into regular learning activities.
The Key could not come at a better time: “The Endless Key project provides an immediate and practical solution to challenges of falling behind with a balanced and complete education in the face of school closures caused by the pandemic,” said Rob McQueen, CEO at Endless OS Foundation. “We are proud to bring our experience addressing these barriers together with these world-class organizations on this first-ever collaboration that will provide much-needed offline access to high-quality content for the 2020 school year.”
This first-ever USB project will initially distribute 500 Endless Keys to students and families in under-resourced schools in the USA for free. Keys are also available on Amazon at cost, which just covers production and distribution. Future updates to the Key will include content from forthcoming partnerships.
Beyond providing technology, the Endless OS Foundation is committed to changing peoples’ lives by providing access to learning; a USB that offers students and families access to educational materials without relying on an internet connection is another game-changer that will empower communities once overlooked.