Learning - Thinking - Playing

iPhone Augmented Reality - Changing the playing field

Late last week my podcasting partner (Darrel aka the ICTGUY) pointed me to a video clip for a beta iPhone application. I had held of on buying the new iPhone simply because i could not see enough enhancements to make me want to switch - well the following clip changes that. The potential future for the iPhone and other similar products, especially in education when the price point is not an issue is amazing.

You can hear more about our discussion on the Ed Tech Crew.

Tags: augmented reality, ictguy, darrel branson, edtechcrew, iphone, app

Toy Blocks - new learning objects?

Whilst trying to help out with domestic chores (namely the ironing) I was able to catch up on a few of the latest TED Talks videos from the recent 2009 event and other past events that I have missed. One that caught my eye right of the bat was the clip about "Siftables" by David Merrill an MIT graduate student.

The video shows a new way to look at how people can change current tools/toys and make them more than something you stack. I really like the thinking behind the idea and with the ability to simply program and add your own content, this concept could really help engage young learners or older learners for that fact.

What other objects that our children use that have a current simplistic application could be enhanced - would that enhancement make a major difference or would it just add a layer of technology. I like being challenged with these questions after watching these video's, it helps make my mind tick and makes the ironing go much quicker.

Project Siftables Link