Story by
Ernst-Jan Pfauth
Ernst-Jan Pfauth is the former Editor in Chief of Internet at NRC Handelsblad, as well as an acclaimed technology author and columnist. He a Ernst-Jan Pfauth is the former Editor in Chief of Internet at NRC Handelsblad, as well as an acclaimed technology author and columnist. He also served as The Next Web’s blog’s first blogger and Editor in Chief, back in 2008. At De Correspondent, Ernst-Jan serves as publisher, fostering the expansion of the platform.
While Nicolas Negroponte tries to find an affordable solution for e-learning in developing countries, some educational institutes try to find one for the western world.
I know it’s not a Touch, but hell, what a funny pic
A class of year 8 students at Shepparton High School in central Victoria in Australia is currently participating in a global mobile learning project. They’re not using the XO laptop as their gear, but an iPod Touch. First results – whatever they’re worth, as it’s test group of 8 persons- show that school work has increased attendance and increased enthusiasm for homework.
After some time of getting used to – students weren’t as savvy as the initiators expected – kids used the shiny devices for searching the web, downloading music, participating in quizzes, submitting assignments and collaborating with a school in Singapore. Yeah! I’d have come to school for that too.
Founder of the project, Louise Duncan, says that the iPod is a lot cheaper than your average laptop. Plus it allowed students to tailor information and stay focused in class. I think it’s a brave and good step to find new ways that might appear scary – the thought of using an entertainment device -, but in the end make class more attractive for kids.
And it’s great promotion for Apple…
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