While Blio appears promising for schools, Layman said, it also holds promise for independent learners.

For example, the software’s read-aloud function “can be used to check pronunciation of unfamiliar words as well as for listening practice, and multimedia features allow for deeper comprehension of the material. Study tools such as sticky notes, highlighting, and bookmarks provide more functions for learners to engage in student-centered learning.”

The Blio “looks incredible and feature-rich; however, without the context of a device, it is hard to compare,” said Anthony David Adams, founder and editor of DetentionSlip, an education blog. “For example, I love my Kindle 2 because it is simple, easy on the eyes, and reads like a book. On a PC, however, this looks to be a superior product for reading books.”

Links:

Blio

Kurzweil Educational Systems

DetentionSlip

For more news on recent developments in eReader technology, see:

Educators intrigued by Apple’s iPad

Can Apple’s tablet spark a textbook revolution

New electronic devices could interest schools