Renaissance Learning 1954404 205039997 2008-04-12T00:56:22Z J.delanoy 2372780 Reverted edits by [[Special:Contributions/68.238.77.91|68.238.77.91]] ([[User talk:68.238.77.91|talk]]) to last version by 24.177.128.131 {{Infobox Company | company_name = Renaissance Learning | company_logo = [[Image:RLI_Logo.jpg||225px]] | company_type = Public {{nasdaq|RLRN}} | foundation = 1986 | location = [[Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin]] | key_people = Judith and Terrance Paul (founders) | area_served = International | industry = Educational software | products = [[Accelerated Reader]], [[Accelerated Math]] | revenue = $120.82 million (2005)<ref name="Yahoo key stats">[http://finance.yahoo.com/q/ks?s=RLRN Key statistics for Renaissance Learning Inc.]; Yahoo!Finance; retrieved September 30, 2006.</ref> | operating_income = | net_income = $19.1 million | num_employees = 956 (February 1, 2006)<ref name="2005 10-K">[http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1030484/000095013706002577/c01592e10vk.htm Renaissance Learning 2006 10-K], retrieved September 30, 2006.</ref> | parent = | subsid = [[AlphaSmart]]; Humanities Software, Inc.; Renaissance Learning UK Ltd.; Renaissance Corporate Services | homepage = http://www.renlearn.com | footnotes = }} '''Renaissance Learning''' Inc. (RLI) is an [[educational software]] and [[educational technology|hardware]] company, publicly traded on the [[NASDAQ]] exchange under the ticker symbol '''RLRN'''.<ref name="CNN">[http://money.cnn.com/quote/quote.html?symb=RLRN CNN profile] of RLRN</ref> It is an international company, headquartered in [[Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin]], USA, with offices in Australia, Canada, India, and the United Kingdom. The company creates educational software (see [[:Category:Renaissance Learning software|list]]) and hardware for [[K-12]] schools (primary and secondary), and over 67,000 schools in the USA use their software.<ref name="RLI_Profile">[http://biz.yahoo.com/ic/53/53143.html Yahoo! Finance] profile of Renaissance Learning, Inc.</ref><ref name="NWREL">[http://www.nwrel.org/scpd/catalog/ModelDetails.asp?ModelID=48 Northwest Regional Education Laboratory] description of the "School Renaissance" system.</ref> The company's software includes applications for reading, math, language acquisition, and early literacy. Most of the software are [[progress monitoring|progress-monitoring]] tools of the practice of various skills (e.g., math practice).<ref name="NCSPM">[http://www.studentprogress.org/progresmon.asp National Center for Student Progress Monitoring] webpage</ref> Several of the software programs have been localized to various countries (e.g. UK, Australia, Canada, Germany).<ref name="german">[http://research.renlearn.com/research/pdfs/192.pdf Math research in Germany] (PDF)</ref> With the recent acquisition of [[AlphaSmart]] and the release of the [[#Hardware|2Know! Classroom Response System]], the company now provides hardware to assist with teaching, scoring tests, and other educational purposes. == History == [[Image:Renaissance_Learning_Logo.png|thumb|right||Corporate logo of Renaissance Learning, Inc., used until 2005.]] [[Accelerated Reader]], the company's flagship product, was created in 1985 by Judith "Judi" Paul. Judith and Terrance "Terry" Paul founded the company in 1986 under the name "Advantage Learning Systems" (ALS). The company's name changed to the current "Renaissance Learning, Inc."<ref name="2001Balance">[http://sec.edgar-online.com/2001/08/13/0000950124-01-502785/Section2.asp Consolidated Balance Sheet] Form 10-Q, filed 8/13/2001.</ref> (RLI) in 2001. The couple own about 75% of RLI.<ref name="RLI_Profile"/> For more information about the company's history, see the [http://www.answers.com/topic/renaissance-learning-inc#Company_History history profile] from the ''International Directory of Company Histories''. ==Subsidiaries== * Advantage Learning Systems India Private Limited, India* * [[AlphaSmart]] * Humanities Software, Inc. * Renaissance Corporate Services * Renaissance Learning Australia Proprietary Limited, Australia* * Renaissance Learning of Canada Co., Nova Scotia, Canada* * Renaissance Learning UK Limited, United Kingdom<ref name="UK">[http://www.renaissance-learning.co.uk/about_us/ Information] regarding the UK division</ref>* * RL Investments, Inc., Nevada, USA* * RL Asset Management, Inc., Nevada, USA* <nowiki>*</nowiki> Source: Annual Report, Form 10-K, 2005<ref name="AnnRep">[http://www.secinfo.com/dsvRm.v2Gu.a.htm Annual Report, Form 10-K] from 2005</ref> ==Assessment philosophy== [[Image:RLIPyramidIcon.gif|right|frame|Renaissance Learning's Assessment Tiers]] Renaissance Learning, Inc. believes that there are three types of [[progress monitoring|progress-monitoring]] assessments, listed below in "Tiers". Most of the software created by the company fits into these three "Tiers." The company's pyramidal logo (see graphic) is a metaphor for the purpose and use of its software. '''Tier 1: Daily Progress Monitoring'''<br> "Tier 1" assessments are daily progress-monitoring assessments. This type of software is designed to monitor skills practice and provide feedback on the impact of instruction. This software provides the most information, often on a daily basis; thus, the associated tier is larger than the other tiers. For example, Accelerated Reader monitors reading practice, and provides information concerning how well students are reading (like reading rates or amount of reading). Tier 1 software include [[Accelerated Reader]], [[Accelerated Math]], Accelerated Vocabulary, Accelerated Grammar & Spelling,* and Accelerated Writer.* '''Tier 2: Periodic Progress Monitoring'''<br> "[[STAR (software)|Tier 2]]" assessments are periodic progress-monitoring assessments. This type of software is designed to provide information about student achievement two to ten times per year with at least monthly intervals. Basically, these assessments fit in between daily and high-stakes annual tests (Tier 3). Tier 2 software include [[STAR (software)#STAR Reading|STAR Reading]], [[STAR (software)#STAR Math|STAR Math]], and [[STAR (software)#STAR Early Literacy|STAR Early Literacy]]. (See [[STAR (software)]] for an overview of the STAR Assessments.) '''Tier 3: Annual High-Stakes Tests'''<br> "Tier 3" assessments are [[high-stakes testing|high-stakes assessments]] like state tests. The company provides a Tier 3-type assessment called AssessmentMaster,* but Tier 3 assessment usually appear in the form of state tests (not provided by RLI). <nowiki>*Product discontinued as of May 2006.</nowiki><ref name="EER">[http://www.simbanet.com/publications/news_eer.htm Electronic Education Report] article (subscription only): Renaissance Learning will streamline product line and organizational structure. (2006, May). ''Electronic Education Report, 13''(8), pp. 1, 6-7.</ref> ==Software platforms== ===Desktop software=== Desktop versions of Renaissance Learning software were designed to run in client-server or standalone environments, using Renaissance Learning proprietary databases, on Macintosh, Windows or Novell networks, to Macintosh or Windows clients. In the case of the client-server environment, the database was installed onto a server, and the client software was installed on any and all machines required to access the database. For a standalone installation, database and client software resided on the same computer. In these older software versions, the databases consisted of one unified student list, per licensed school building, with classroom and teacher assignments unique to each program, but easily duplicated between their software packages, to minimize redundant data entry. Thus for example, STAR Reading, STAR Early Literacy and Accelerated Reader could all use one master list of students, with customized classroom organization per program. Further, Accelerated Reader quizzes and Accelerated Math libraries, also licensed to a single school building, could be installed into their respective databases (in either the stand-alone or network setups). ===Client-server software=== '''Renaissance Place''', a newer, web-based system, runs on a Windows server platform, using MSDE 2000 or SQL Server for the database, and Internet Information Services (IIS) to deliver a front end to any computer, on any platform, with only a web browser required to be installed (except for some packages, which have further requirements). Renaissance Place hosts most of the software and all three [[#Assessment philosophy|types of assessment]] created by Renaissance Learning. Once a school purchases the software, students, teachers, and administrators can access the purchased software online by entering a user ID and password. Renaissance Place provides a number of benefits over the traditional desktop versions. Instead of installing software on each computer, students, teachers, and administrators can access all of the purchased software in one place. Teachers and administrators can access reports and data from any computer, and data is consolidated in one area. Just as with the client-server model for the company's older desktop versions, the Accelerated Reader quizzes of any type and Accelerated Math libraries are all still installed to the server, as these are still licensed to individual school buildings. Additionally, Renaissance Learning offers to host the school's data for a fee, reducing the time required of the school's technical specialist for maintaining a server. Renaissance Place versions of Renaissance Learning's software are compliant with the [[Schools Interoperability Framework]] (SIF). ==Reading software== ===[[Accelerated Reader]]=== <!-- Note: The Accelerated Reader article may be moved here. Please do not add any more details to this section at the moment. A discussion is still taking place regarding merging the articles. Thanks! --> [[Image:Read logo.gif|frame|right|Reading software logo]] Accelerated Reader, the company's flagship software created in 1985 and defined as "reading management software," is intended to help "teachers guide students' independent reading practice and motivate students to read more books."<ref name="RLI1">Renaissance Learning. (2006). ''Daily and periodic progress-monitoring assessment systems.'' Wisconsin Rapids: Author. (This is a new advertising pamphlet.)</ref> Essentially, "AR" is an assessment that primarily determines whether a student has read a book, with more efficiency, speed, and accuracy than a book report because it is computer-scored. The software provides additional information to teachers regarding reading rates, amount of reading, and other variables related to reading. In May 2006, the company announced [[Accelerated Reader]] Enterprise positioned for use for entire school districts. This version offers the entire library of quizzes.<ref name="AR_ent">[http://renlearn.com/AR_AMbanner/AR_Enterprise.pdf Accelerated Reader Enterprise] information on PDF.</ref> See [[Accelerated Reader]] for more details. ===[[STAR (software)#STAR Reading|STAR Reading]]=== [[Image:SR logo.gif|frame|right|STAR Reading and STAR Early Literacy logo]] STAR Reading is a [[computer-adaptive test|computer-adaptive]] reading test and database. It assesses students' reading levels and provides norm-referenced<!-- There are two norm-referenced articles. They need to be merged. --> reading scores for students in grades 1 through 12.<ref name="RLI1"/> ===[[STAR (software)#STAR Early Literacy|STAR Early Literacy]]=== STAR Early Literacy, a computer-adaptive diagnostic assessment, is an assessment of early literacy skills of students in grades Pre-K through 3. It assesses phonemic awareness, phonics, and other readiness and literacy skills. Additionally, it identifies specific strengths and weaknesses in these skills.<ref name="RLI1"/> ===English in a Flash=== English in a Flash is a language acquisition tool for grades K through 12 intended to be used with [[English language learning and teaching|English Language Learners]] (ELLs) and [[English language learning and teaching|English as a Second Language]] (ESL) students.<!-- Can we find any links to those phrases? --> It helps students build vocabulary and grammar.<ref name="RLI1"/> ===''Read Now Power Up!''=== <!-- I'm not sure why the company put the title in italics, but they did. --> ''Read Now Power Up!'' is a reading intervention program for students in grades 5 through 9. It combines Steck Vaughn's [[Power Up!]] with Read Now.<ref name="readsoft">[http://renlearn.com/reading.htm Reading software] webpage lacks "Read Now" alone.</ref> It features lessons, activities, and reading materials that are intended to motivate students and provide teachers with information to address individual needs.<ref name="RLI1"/> ===Fluent Reader=== Fluent Reader allows for students to practice reading texts out loud, into the computer, to diagnose their reading and pronunciation capabilities.<ref>[http://www.renlearn.com/fluentreader/Overview/default.htm Fluent Reader overview page]</ref> The package also comes with Audio CDs, so that students can listen to reading passages. The passages are available at several grade levels, and optionally include phonics practice.<ref>[http://www.renlearn.com/fluentreader/Software/Passages.htm Fluent Reader reading passages page]</ref> Fluent Reader uses the [[#Client-server software|Renaissance Place]] framework, along with other required software for its recording capabilities.<ref>[http://www.renlearn.com/ProductSystemRequirements.pdf Renaissance Place] system requirements (PDF). Fluent Reader client requirements are listed at the bottom of page two, under "Other."</ref> ==Math software== ===[[Accelerated Math]]=== [[Image:Math logo.jpg|frame|right|Math software logo]] Accelerated Math, a "math management program for grade 1 through calculus," is designed to work with any curriculum or textbook. It generates "personalized math assignments at each student's level," and it scores the assignements via scanner. Additionally, it provides reports and record-keeping functions to monitor student progress and address individual needs.<ref name="RLI1"/> In May 2006, the company announced [[Accelerated Math]] Enterprise positioned for use for entire school districts. This version offers the entire math library, from first grade math to calculus.<ref name="AM_ent>[http://renlearn.com/AR_AMbanner/AM_Enterprise.pdf Accelerated Math Enterprise] information on PDF.</ref> See [[Accelerated Math]] for more details. ===[[STAR (software)#STAR Math|STAR Math]]=== [[Image:STARmath.gif|thumb|right||STAR Math logo]] STAR Math, a computer adaptive math test and database, provides norm-referenced math scores for students in grades 1 through 12. Like other software provided by the company, it provides data regarding individual progress.<ref name="RLI1"/> ===MathFacts in a Flash=== <!-- The company merges the two words "math" and "facts". --> MathFacts in a Flash is software intended to enhance the mastery of computational fluency, and it is similar to math flash cards on a computer (thus the name "in a Flash"). It provides practice with addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and other math facts. It allows students to work at their own pace and provides immediate feedback on areas of difficulty. It includes timed tests and reports of individual progress.<ref name="RLI1"/> ==Other software== * [[#Client-server software|Renaissance Place]] (see above) * The 2Know! Classroom Response System comes with software called 2Know! Toolbar, which assists with receiving and scoring response from the 2Know!<ref name="CRS">[http://www.renlearn.com/2know/ 2Know! Classroom Response System] webpage</ref> * Accelerated Vocabulary, now part of Accelerated Reader Enterprise Edition.<ref>[http://www.renlearn.com/ar/overview/vocabulary.htm Accelerated Vocabulary page], as part of Accelerated Reader Enterprise Edition.</ref> * AccelTest, software for creating quizzes and tests<ref>[http://www.renlearn.com/acceltest/default.asp AccelTest] webpage</ref> ===Discontinued software=== The following software were discontinued as of May 2006:<ref name="EER"/> * Accelerated Writer * Accelerated Grammar & Spelling * AssessmentMaster (formerly StandardsMaster) ==Hardware== [[Image:AS Neo.jpg|thumb|150px|right|[[AlphaSmart]] Neo]] Renaissance Learning recently began providing educational hardware with the acquisition of AlphaSmart in 2005. For information on the AlphaSmart product line, see the [[AlphaSmart]] page. The company has recently created the '''2Know! Classroom Response System''', which is intended to aid classroom participation and assessment. Each student uses a wireless handheld device that looks like a cross between a cell phone and a calculator. The device has a small LCD screen with a number of buttons, including a phone-type number pad, ABCDE voting buttons, True/False buttons, and other miscellaneous buttons.<ref name="CRS_Image">[http://www.renlearn.com/renresponder/rrLarge.htm Image of the CRS]</ref> Using wireless technology, teachers can post questions and receive student responses without using paper-and-pencil quizzes or disruptive raise-your-hand techniques. The system can use built-in assessments or teacher-made assessments. The hardware also comes with the 2Know! Toolbar, software to help receiving and scoring information from the 2Know!.<ref name="CRS" /> ==Independent support and popularity== A number of independent agencies have found Renaissance Learning products to be technically sound. For example, the Comprehensive School Reform Quality Center ranked Renaissance Learning's comprehensive school reform model as third of 22 models.<ref name="CSRQ">[http://www.csrq.org/documents/ESCSRQReport-Full_000.pdf CSRQ Webpage] See page 208.</ref> "Sharing Success," a project that is "publicly funded by the New York State Legislature and the Governor's Office to identify and disseminate successful educational programs and practices statewide,"<ref name="Share1">[http://www.sharingsuccess.org/ SharingSuccess.org]</ref> has favorably reviewed the research on Renaissance Learning's products.<ref name="Share2">[http://www.sharingsuccess.org/code/eptw/profiles/es60.html SharingSuccess.org Research Review]</ref> In August and October of 2006, eSchool News conducted an online survey asking readers which reading and math software were the best for various categories. Accelerated Reader, Accelerated Vocabulary, English in a Flash, Fluent Reader, STAR Early Literacy, and Read Now Power Up! were among some of the best reading software.<ref name="eSch1">[http://www.eschoolnews.com/resources/surveys/editorial/rca/eSNOct06RCA.pdf Best Reading Software]--the 2006 Reader's Choice Awards from eSchool News.</ref> Accelerated Math was among some of the best math software.<ref name="eSch2">[http://www.eschoolnews.com/resources/surveys/editorial/rca/RCAAug06.pdf Best Math Software]--2006 Reader's Choice Awards from eSchool News.</ref> RLI itself maintains a research webpage, covering uses of its products for support of various curriculum.<ref name="research">[http://research.renlearn.com/ RLI Research Page] Find research studies on RLI products.</ref> Its products have also been covered by the [[Education Resources Information Center]] (ERIC).<ref name="ERIC">[http://www.eric.ed.gov/ ERIC] Go to [[Education Resources Information Center]] to find studies on RLI products.</ref> ==References== {{reflist|2}} ==External links== *[http://www.renlearn.com/ Renaissance Learning, Inc.] *[http://www.renaissance-learning.co.uk/ Renaissance Learning UK Ltd.], the United Kingdom website *[http://www.answers.com/topic/renaissance-learning-inc#Company_History Company History] from the ''International Directory of Company Histories'' at Answers.com *[http://www.conferenceboard.ca/elearning/Downloads/Industry_Analysis/WIT_Capital/Building_Knw_Econ.pdf Description of Advantage Learning Systems] in an equity research review of the company (see pp. 147-164). [[Category:Educational software companies]] [[Category:Companies based in Wisconsin]] [[Category:1986 establishments]]