I just can’t let go of surface computing…

NewScientist has an article on how LEGO-like blocks might be used to bring a third dimension to touch or surface computing. The checkers example was pointless, but the photo editing application was actually useful!

The only problem I see with physical blocks is that the surface computer must be table-like. The concept doesn’t apply to surface computers that hang like pictures or are inclined like some desks.

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I no longer dabble with multitouch/surface computing, but I continue to admire the efforts of those who do!

Ideum’s video showcases a fair bit of exploratory work. But I can see the surface computer used to greater effect for collaborative learning!

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I no longer have the resources, support or energy to develop our multitouch surface prototype at the MxL.

But I am glad that others like 10/Gui are developing solutions for what is the not-too-distant future of human-computer interaction. Don’t believe me? Check out what companies like HP and Sony are up to in this TechCrunch article.

What would I learn without RSS? Very little! RSS is one of my personal PD (professional development) tools and with it I learn or get something reinforced every day!

One blog I follow is Chris Dawson’s. He recently asked how important is 1:1 to literacy? He doesn’t have all the answers (no one does), but he asks some pretty good questions. He has a follow-up today on getting your teachers started with 1:1.

On his blog today was a feature on virtual autopsies via surface computing. Another of my favourites! Surface computing, that is, not autopsies! Alas, I have practically abandoned my efforts in surface computing due to a lack of support.

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I think that surface computing is not only more intuitive, it also promotes other literacies because you must be able to manage, manipulate and create with digital media. These might include the interpretation of various types of images or the creation of videos or screencasts to illustrate ideas and processes.

I wrote about BumpTop in April. It is in the news again now that Windows 7 nears release.

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I was excited about the possibilities BumpTop offered then and am more excited about it now. The iPhone and the iPod Touch transformed the way we interacted with mobile devices. I think that BumpTop (or something like it) will do the same thing for the way we interact with current computers.

I’ve blogged about multitouch surfaces before. Now here is a link to a video that reveals how surface technology is being used in intelligence agencies, medicine, air-traffic control, crime management, etc.

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It was only a matter of time for someone to come up with a proper multitouch game.

Ooh, a demo of surface computing using the Touch Pack.

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The screen had an LED array, much like the prototype that we have at the MxL. Sadly, we do not have the support or momentum to develop it further.

From Gizmodo: Windows 7 Touch Pack Multitouch Apps Let You Fondle the Globe or Play Death Pong.

We need to create a Windows 7 partition in the MxL’s surface computing prototype and try these apps out!

Surface computing aka multitouch has already started to establish itself. This time it is with an educational game. Make that “educational” game.

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I am all for integrating technology meaningfully, so I have to ask: Wouldn’t the kids be able to do the same thing with pieces of paper or blocks?