--- Forwarded Message from "Doug Worsham" <[log in to unmask]> --- Subject: Re: #7727 Tablet PCs We use Compaq tc1100 Tablet PCs when instructors need a mobile wireless computer lab set up in a classroom (see - http://lss.wisc.edu/facilities/labs/mobilecomp.htm ). The small size of this device allows us to use it even in classrooms with very limited desk space or with table-arm chairs. We've used these tablets for a variety of Internet and AV activities, and both instructors and students have been pleased with the results. We provide tutorials for the instructors and students to get used to using the devices, and we've found that both groups find the stylus, mouse, and keyboard easy to use. Recently we've started experimenting with using the Tablets to teach non-Roman scripts. We'll be piloting this over the next few semesters with Tibetan and Urdu instructors. Our initial tests had the instructors very excited about the possibilities, so we're looking forward to developing some lessons and trying this out in the classroom. We're also experimenting with using the tablets in discussion/lecture classes. We're currently testing them out in a science class, and looking for more opportunities for experimentation next semester. As for the cons, the tablets are a bit slower than comparably priced laptops, but his speed difference doesn't seem to be enough to impact regular classroom tasks. We've found that the small size and the possibilities for developing new teaching techniques like those above have made up for the sacrifice in speed. Doug --- Doug Worsham Foreign Language Technologist AV Services Coordinator L&S Learning Support Services 246 Van Hise Hall, UW-Madison Madison, WI 53706 608/262-4965 [log in to unmask] *********************************************** LLTI is a service of IALLT, the International Association for Language Learning, and The Consortium for Language Teaching and Learning (http://consortium.dartmouth.edu). Join IALLT at http://iallt.org. Otmar Foelsche, LLTI-Editor ([log in to unmask]) ***********************************************