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Smart desks bring sci-fi to the classroom

Schools are set for a Star Trek makeover thanks to the development of the world’s first interactive classroom by experts at Durham University.

Researchers at the Technology-Enhanced Learning Research Group (TEL) are designing new learning environments using interactive multi-touch desks that look and act like a large version of an Apple iPhone.

The team observed how students and teachers interact in classes and how Information Communications Technology (ICT) could improve collaboration. They then set about designing an interactive classroom solution called ‘SynergyNet’. The team has linked up with manufacturers to design software, and desks that recognise multiple touches on the desktop, using vision systems that can see infrared light.

SynergyNet will integrate ICT into the fabric of the classroom. The new desk with a ‘multi-touch’ surface will be the central component, and the desks will be networked and linked to a main smartboard.

Dr. Liz Burd, Director of Active Learning in Computing at Durham University said: “Our vision is that every desk in school in 10 years time will be interactive. IT in schools is an exciting prospect - our system is very similar to the type of interface shown as a vision of the future in the TV series Star Trek!

“The system will also boost equal access in school. In IT, we have found that males have been the dominant actors - interactive classrooms will encourage more females to take part in lessons. It will also enable more disabled students to participate in lessons and allow more personalised learning.”

A single workdesk can operate as a set of individual work spaces and/or a large screen allowing students to cooperate on a task. The software will be used to link everything together in a fully interactive classroom system of desks and smartboards.

After testing the system with students of all ages, the software will be available to schools for free as open source code.

An example of the new desks at work can be found at the TEL website.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .