Ideation Alternative: Proposed Device

Kinect
Kinect’s camera is powered by both hardware and software. And it does two things: generate a three-dimensional (moving) image of the objects in its field of view, and recognize (moving) human beings among those objects.

diagram of the technologies in Kinect

Kinect Hardware Basics

The Kinect Sensor consists of the following:

• RGB Camera – A regular video camera that has a resolution of 640x480 at 30 frames per second
• 3D Depth Sensors – This is a combination of a depth projector (left reticule) and sensor (right reticule) to calculate distance. For more information, see the Tech behind Kinect video
• Motorized Tilt – The motorized tilt enables you to adjust the camera up or down 27 degrees to ensure that the camera has the best possible view of you
• Multi-Array Microphone – A four-microphone array that is mounted as a single microphone in Windows

Why I Chose Kinect

1. Seamlessly Integrate Technology

- Technology integration is most effective when it disappears, meaning that users are so engaged in the content, that thinking on the actual technology is minimal.

- Kinect, is seamless; user awareness of the device is rare.

2. Embrace Cultural Diversity

- By combining a virtual lobby with full facial and body tracking, users can globally connect with others from around the globe. (Avatar Kinect)

- Microsoft is piloting Kinect in Africa, a sure sign this device can reach learners from all demographics and socioeconomic statuses.

3. Establish Content Relevancy

- Virtual labs that integrate gestures and Kinect will bridge the gap between virtual labs and true-to-life labs.

4. Explore New Environments

- Explore the universe (WorldWide Telescope, a collaboration with NASA)
- Explore the human body (Augmented Reality Magic Mirror)

- All of this can be done within a standard classroom. 

5. Facilitate Research-Supported Learning

- Active learning increases academic performance.

- Kinect can overcome the parameters isolating active learning from classrooms. 

- The Horizon Report reveals that gesture-based learning is an upcoming trend that will be integrated in the field of education over the next few years.




Link to KinectEducation