Encore Data Products Identifies Four Headsets for Amira Learning Assessments

Encore Data Products has identified four classroom headset options for schools preparing for Amira Learning assessments: the AVID Products AE-36, the AVID Products AE-15 USB-C, the HamiltonBuhl ST2BK Smart-Trek and the Cyber Acoustics AC-204. The recommendations are intended to help school technology teams evaluate audio equipment based on device connectivity and classroom testing conditions.

Amira ISIP Assess is a browser-based reading assessment that listens as students read aloud and analyzes their oral reading. Because the assessment depends on student speech, a working microphone is a required part of device preparation. Amira supports modern PCs, Macs, Chromebooks and tablets, with browser and device requirements that vary by platform.

Amira does not require students to use headphones. Its published setup guidance describes headsets and testing dividers as optional but helpful for reducing background noise, and advises spacing devices apart so microphones do not pick up multiple voices. Amira also notes that headsets with microphones are encouraged in noisier classrooms and can help capture the voices of students who speak softly.

"Schools preparing for digital assessments have to consider more than whether a headset makes sound," said a representative for Encore Data Products. "Tech teams need to know what connection their devices use, whether a microphone is required and whether the equipment suits the environment where students will be testing. Having multiple options gives schools a starting point to match their existing devices with classroom audio equipment."

Among the models identified by Encore is the AVID Products AE-36, a longstanding classroom testing headset. Encore lists the AE-36 among its headset options for standardized school testing, including WIDA and TELPAS. The model pairs stereo headphones with a noise-canceling boom microphone and is available in 3.5mm, USB-A and USB-C versions to fit different school device fleets.

Encore is also highlighting the AVID Products AE-15 for schools using newer USB-C devices. The AE-15 is a USB-C classroom headset with an omnidirectional microphone on a 270-degree rotating boom, an adjustable headband and on-ear cushions. Its native USB-C connection gives schools running compatible Chromebooks, tablets and laptops an option that does not require a separate 3.5mm audio adapter.

USB-C is especially relevant as school device fleets evolve. Amira’s current iPad setup guidance supports either the built-in microphone or a wired Lightning or USB-C headset, and requires Safari for assessment use on iPads. Across every supported platform, including iPad, Amira lists a minimum of 4 GB of RAM and at least 10 Mbps of internet bandwidth per student.

For fleets built around a single combination audio port, the HamiltonBuhl ST2BK Smart-Trek is a 3.5mm option. Encore describes the model as a durable student headset with an adjustable headband, leatherette ear cushions, noise isolation, in-line volume control and a steel-reinforced gooseneck microphone. The headset uses a single TRRS plug, so it works with devices that combine headphone and microphone into one jack.

The fourth option, the Cyber Acoustics AC-204, has an over-the-head design and a flexible, noise-canceling boom microphone that rotates 180 degrees for left- or right-side wear. Encore includes both the AC-204 and the ST2BK among its popular school testing headsets. The AC-204 connects with a single 3.5mm plug and ships with a Y-adapter for computers that have separate headphone and microphone jacks.

"Device compatibility becomes more important when districts are managing multiple generations of Chromebooks, laptops and desktop computers," said a representative of Encore Data Products. "Checking the device connection and testing the microphone ahead of the assessment window helps tech departments catch compatibility issues before students sit down to test."

Encore Data Products notes that these four options are its own recommendations and not an official list of Amira-approved or Amira-required headsets. Schools should review Amira’s current technical requirements and confirm compatibility with the devices they are using before buying in volume.

The headset recommendations are part of Encore Data Products’ broader focus on helping schools prepare audio technology for digital instruction and assessment. The Lafayette, Colorado-based company supplies school headphones, headsets with microphones, earbuds, audiovisual equipment and technology accessories to educational and other institutional customers.

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