What is a Tablet PC? (source)

The Tablet PC is the next-generation in mobile computing. It is a fully functional PC with a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen that allows you to use a stylus to create handwritten entries. The Tablet PC runs Microsoft Windows XP Tablet PC Edition and uses handwriting recognition technology. Tablet PCs are exceptionally lightweight with long-lasting battery life. This lightweight mobile technology provides both teachers and students mobility and flexibility in deciding when, where and how they want to complete their work.

How to use a Tablet PC?

The Tablet PC runs Microsoft Windows XP, so it will run very much like the PCs many students, teachers and administrators are used to using. The user will open the Tablet PC and fold over the LCD screen, transforming what would look like a laptop into something looking like a notebook. Then using the stylus (a specially designed pen shaped device created for the use on an LCD screen), write like you would if you were using pen and paper. The handwriting recognition technology transforms your handwritten information into standard text. Transforming handwritten information into text is not a requirement. The Tablet PC has the ability to search thru and save handwritten text just like computer text. Tablet PCs also have the ability to be used with a keyboard and mouse. The versatility of the Tablet PC also allows the user to use a keyboard and/or mouse if preferred.

Why use a Tablet PC?

• Tablet PCs allow teachers and students greater flexibility in learning environments. Students and teachers no longer have to be in computer labs or classrooms.
• They allow for mobility in the room to enable you to assist in student collaborations.
• Tablet PCs can be used anywhere in or out of the school building.
• Stay mobile in or out of the classroom but still have access to the information you normally have on your desktop or laptop PC.
• Tablet PCs remove the barriers that are created from the screens of laptops and desktops to allow you to maintain eye contact and interaction with your students.
• Saves schools money on paper.
• Greater communication between students and teachers.
• Add enthusiasm to a lesson.

How are educators using Tablet PCs?

Teacher use:

• To grade papers. Tablet PCs provide teachers with the ability to insert comments right into a students work in Microsoft Office.
• As a whiteboard or chalkboard connected to a projector. Teachers are able to have students brainstorm in class by writing their thoughts on the Tablet PC and save their work without having to give up chalkboard space or worry about someone erasing it. Tablet PCs also allow teachers to provide notes to students typed so they are easy for students to read.
• Create integrated assignments for the students use.
• Create worksheets students can fill in and submit electronically.

Student use:

• Create and use integrated assignments. Students or teachers can combine reading assignments, class notes and other learning material into one document or multiple documents at hand without the hassle of fumbling through books for the materials.
• The ability to take notes in their own handwriting and also search through those notes.
• Collect and share web sites and information for research.
• Allows students to submit assignments but also retain a copy.

Tablet PC Resources

Microsoft Windows XP Tablt PC

Toshiba

Hewlett Packard


References

Evans, Sarah (2006, January 22). New, low-cost tablet PCs can revolutionalize schoolwork. Retrieved July 15, 2006, from Columnist Web site: http://159.54.226.83/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060122/COLUMN0203/601220321/1064

Herrera, Chris (July 10, 2006). tabletpctalk. Retrieved July 12, 2006, from Tablet PC Talk Web site: http://www.tabletpctalk.com/

Roblyer, M.D. (2006). Integration Educational Technology into Teaching. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Pearson Education, Inc.

(May 13, 2004). About Microsoft Tablet PC. Retrieved July 12, 2006, from Microsoft Web site: http://www.microsoft.com/Education/TabletPCAbout.mspx

(June 2, 2004). LCD. Retrieved July 12, 2006, from Webopedia Web site:

http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/L/LCD.html

Picture Sources

http://www.departments.dsu.edu/news/spotlight/photogallery/Howard.htm

http://blogs.brophyprep.org/mt/blogs/Blair/images/Tablets1.jpg