While sifting through the World Wide Web for something technology related that assists in educating. I thought I stumbled upon a perfect product, but it turns out it was just a potential good idea that bubbled up. The Microsoft Surface.
The Microsoft Surface is multi-touch computer in the form of a table. Unfortunately it seams as if this product is drowning with the price point being near $10,000, the unit being on bulky wheels, and being a pc driven by windows. It was unveiled in 2007 but has been sinking in popularity ever since.
It was recently announced by Microsoft researcher Bill Buxton that in three more years the Microsoft Surface would become the size of a sheet of glass. Along with the sleek new design the price would drop to a more economical level. Still no price range has been given. With a competitor like Apple who already has the successful ipad out it makes seeing this product float even more unlikely.
For a moment imagine the possibility of a touch surface the size of a table. My favorite image is a class of elementary students gathered around a table navigating around on it with their hands flying everywhere. It could be a useful product used by artists to design, tables for group work, or interactive desks for the students to sit at. Interactive surfaces have definite appeal for education I just don’t believe the Microsoft Surface will be the one that rises up.
References:
http://www.tomshardware.com/news/Bill-Buxton-Microsoft-Research-Microsoft-Surface-Touchscreen-Table-surface,11280.html
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