More on Microsoft Surface

The current product is essentially a coffee table with a computer screen. What sets this computer apart is the use of multitouch technology, meaning that the computer responds to multiple inputs from fingers, hands, and external devices. Can you imagine this type of product being the classroom desktop of the future? I sure can.

Below is a list of additional links related to this product. Of particular interest to me was the responses to the description of David Pogue from the New York Times. Some people complained about how impractical the current device is. Others argued that the asthetics of the table are lacking any grace or style. As usual, there were those who are anti-Microsoft zealots who claim that this is nothing more than another stolen technology. What each of these people are missing is that this is the first project that portrays a vision for computing in the future -- a product to be refined, enhanced, and tweaked any number of times in the years to come. This is certainly not the final version that will make a difference in our lives and in the lives of our students, but rather the first step in the evolution of a new type of computer -- a trend which we would be wise to closely watch.

Here are some other links sharing information and commentary on Microsoft Surface:

• The Official Microsoft Site for Surface
• Microsoft Scratches the Surface
• Much Ado about Microsoft's Surface Computer

What do you think? Does this type of product have the potential to add value to the education of our children? Or is this just a temporary toy or fad? Let me know what you think by leaving a comment.