Thursday, November 20, 2008

Kindle: Amazon's Wireless Reading Device


The Kindle is a portable reading device with the ability to wirelessly download books, blogs, magazines, and newspapers. Amazon introduced the Kindle just last year. It is designed to provide an exceptional reading experience. Thanks to electronic paper, a revolutionary new display technology, reading Kindle’s screen is as sharp and natural as reading ink on paper—and nothing like the strain and glare of a computer screen. Kindle is also easy on the fingertips. It never becomes hot and is designed for ambidextrous use so both "lefties" and "righties" can read comfortably at any angle for long periods of time. Kindle is completely mobile and simple to use for everyone, it is wireless. No PC and no syncing needed. Using the same 3G network as advanced cell phones, it delivers your content using Amazon’s own wireless delivery system, called Whispernet. Unlike WiFi, you’ll never need to locate a hotspot. There are no confusing service plans, yearly contracts, or monthly wireless bills—no hassles so you can just read. With Whispernet, you can be anywhere, think of a book, and get it in one minute. Similarly, your content automatically comes to you, wherever you are. Newspaper subscriptions are delivered wirelessly each morning. Most magazines arrive before they hit newsstands. Haven’t read the book for tomorrow night’s book club? Get it in a minute. Finished your book in the airport? Download the sequel while you board the plane. Whether you’re in the mood for something serious or hilarious, lighthearted or studious, Kindle delivers your spontaneous reading choices on demand. Kindle lets you download and read the beginning of books for free. This way, you can try it out—if you like it, simply buy and download with 1-Click, right from your Kindle, and continue reading. Want to try a newspaper as well? All newspaper subscriptions start with a risk-free two-week trial. Kindle’s paperback size and expandable memory let you travel light with your library. With the freedom to download what you want, when you want, you’ll never again find yourself stuck without a great read. Read about the Kindle on the Amazon website http://www.amazon.com/Kindle-Amazons-Wireless-Reading-Device/dp/B000FI73MA, watch the videos and look at what’s available and the pricing. Do you think this technology might be useful in the classroom or other educational setting? How would you use it both personally and professionally?

Thursday, November 13, 2008

SMART Table




Meet the world’s first multitouch, multiuser table for primary education. The SMART Table interactive learning center lets students get hands-on with collaborative activities – and the more hands the merrier.
The SMART Table is a versatile learning center where groups of students can create, explore and discover together on the durable screen. The interface is so intuitive that even the youngest child can play games and plunge into learning activities in no time.


Watch the video to get some ideas about how the SMART Table could be used in the classroom. How long do you think it will take for this technology to be integrated into classrooms? How would you use this with your students?