Luzia Research have started working with plusCONNECTTelecom on a system to manage the distribution and billing of the Sums Mobile range of mobile software.

The proposed system will allow two methods of distribution - one sponsored by individual schools which will allow students free access to programmes in the Sums Mobile range, with the school paying a fixed fee for all their students.

The second method will allow parents or students to directly access the software and pay directly - as standard mobile games and software is currently distributed.

The distribution system is planned to launch with Sums Mobile later this year.

Working with Sums Online Luzia is developing a range of mathematical tools for mobile phones.
These tools are aimed at primary school students and feature exercises to build up key concepts in numeracy, shape and space, calculations and handling data.

The software supports Key Stages 1 & 2 and is designed to supplement classroom based learning with engaging exercises, that feedback to the student on how to correct mistakes. Benefiting from the mature and widely used Sums Online product range (in 700 schools) this set of programs helps parents engage children in new ways.

The programs will be available via text message and downloaded directly to the phone, this is to give parents an easy route to get the software to their children. Luzia are investigating ways to help schools encourage usage of the software.

Sums Mobile will be launched later in 2006.

Results of primary teachers survey indicate positive future for mobile educational tools.The results of a survey of teachers attending the the Early Years and & Primary Education Exhibition Manchester 2006 show that 80% of teachers think there is a role for mobile phone software in primary schools. Overwhelmingly teachers felt it was only suitable for students in years 5 & 6, stating up to 90% of students in this age range had mobile phones.

When asked about the areas that students find most difficult 70% of teachers identified problem solving and mathematics.

The most popular reason for this was lack of parental support, teachers stated that when parents found maths difficult themselves it was a challenge to support their children.

Luzia Research are planning a product targeted at the Year 5 & 6 students that will help parents support children with maths, an announcement to follow soon.