The launch of Windows 10 brought relief to users who weren’t so welcoming when the company released Windows 8. Now, the new software is getting such high regards that it could be considered as a necessary tool in the classroom.

“Users upgrading to Windows 10 will immediately notice the dramatic overhaul Microsoft's designers have given the operating system's user interface, including the return of the Start menu, which was removed from Windows 8,” said D. Frank Smith of EdTechMagazine.

“But dig a little deeper and you'll find features that could help educators organize, present and conduct research more efficiently.”

Smith went ahead and outlined four big reasons that classrooms nationwide might want to upgrade to the Windows 10 operating system. His reasons included Cortana, Edge and Web Note features, Windows Hello and the ability to carry PC ability in the palm of your hand with Continuum.

Smith’s case for Cortana, the Windows assistant who rivals Apple’s Siri, was her ability to help students and teachers with research projects. Cortana can be used to quickly and vocally search the web for information necessary to complete classroom projects from scavenger hunts to research papers.

Another one of the new features that comes with Windows 10 is Edge, a new way that Windows is helping users browse the web. But it’s not just the new browser that Smith says is attractive, in fact, Edge contains a feature called Web Note, which combines the editing and note taking ability with web-browsing. Students can use this feature so that they can affectively save research, study and outline information they will need in the classroom.

Eliminating or reducing the log in time and problems that arise with them has been heavy on the discussion for EdTech in the classroom and Smith thinks that Windows Hello will be the solution to that problem.

“Using a 3D camera, Windows Hello allows users to log in using just their faces,” said Smith.

“The feature authenticates users by verifying that the person in front of the computer matches a 3D image of approved users. However, this special feature requires devices to be equipped with RealSense 3D cameras, which are new to the market.”

The final reason why educators and administrators should consider making the move to Windows 10 lies within Continuum.

“With smartphones and tablets everywhere today, schoolwork doesn’t always begin — or end — on a desktop,” said Smith.

“Use of Windows 10 across devices will allow users to experience seamless transition through Continuum, a new feature that comes built into the new operating system.”

The move might not be feasible for schools with limited budgets but according to Smith’s report, Windows 10 has some serious advantages in the classroom when it comes to its predecessors like Windows 8 and Windows 7.

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Article by Navindra Persaud, Education World Contributor