AUSTIN, Texas - Sept 16, 2003 - Motion Computing today announced that Brookfield Zoo near Chicago is using Motion M1300 Tablet PCs to enhance educational field trips by school children, including students with Disabilities.
Microsoft and Quilogy, a Microsoft Managed Regional Systems Integrator, are sponsoring the Institute of Museum and Library Sciences grant-driven Brookfield Zoo project, and software developed by both companies is integral to the leading-edge use of tablet PC technology.
Brookfield Zoo is working with the Chicago Public School System to bring a tablet PC-enabled educational experience to students, including students with disabilities in inclusion classes. At the zoo, students use Motion M1300 Tablet PCs, the company's most advanced product participate more fully. The Quilogy software system was created to address the needs of students with hearing, visual and physical disabilities.
The first phase of the program has the students using zoo curriculum that involves animal observations and gathering data to analyze back in the classroom. Students typically work with pencil and paper, and are limited only to the information their own class gathers.
With this innovative project, teams of sixth- through twelfth grade students arrive at the zoo and learn how to use the Motion M1300 Tablet PC. They then conduct animal behavioral observations entering the data they gather on the tablet and upload results using Quilogy's Web-based software. Animal observations compiled during the field trip are saved on each student's tablet, replicated on the zoo's server, and then backed up onto a third-party server so teachers and students can use the information back in the classroom.
Because data are readily available online, teachers can look at their classroom's and other schools' aggregate data in different slices to identify trends and apply the information to other activities.
Students make accessibility choices on their M1300 Tablet PC based on special visual or audio needs. The software includes a Microsoft Magnifier, speech software and a customized narrative audio program delivered by a Cyberbuddies agent. Based on any special accessibility choices the student makes, the program will magnify the text displayed on the tablet PC, read that text aloud, or convert audio portions of the program to text. "Because our students must carry their supplies as they walk through the zoo to complete their assignments, ultra mobile technology is important to the success of our program," said Ann Roth, Brookfield Zoo's Access Coordinator and the Every Student is a Scientist project manager. "Motion's large12.1-inch display and rugged, lightweight design make that goal a reality. The tablet PC is a fun, practical tool for the students, and the custom-built software engages them and makes their zoo experience even more valuable."
"This is a great example of tablet PC versatility and people using our systems in new ways and places," said David Altounian, Motion Computing's chief product officer. "Brookfield Zoo's innovative use of technology exemplifies how institutions are fundamentally improving the education process."
Motion has won acclaim for its innovative 12.1-inch display and three-pound product design, and is at the forefront of second-generation tablet PC development. The company delivered the first slate models based on Intel Centrino mobile technology and has developed patent-pending accessories such as its space-saving hardtop keyboard.
About Motion Computing
Motion Computing - a Tablet PC market leader - combines world-class innovation and industry experience, enabling people to use computers in new ways and places. Marketed directly through its Web site and an experienced international reseller network, each Motion product is built to customer specifications. The company's M1200 and M1300 Tablet PCs and accessories are designed for users who need a combination of true mobility, power and versatility.
For more information, visit www.motioncomputing.com
About Brookfield Zoo Brookfield Zoo is known throughout the world for its innovative, naturalistic, multi-species exhibits, its international role in animal population management and wildlife conservation and its devotion to helping people develop a sustainable and harmonious relationship with nature. Hailed as America's first "barless zoo" when it opened in 1934, Brookfield Zoo sits on 216 acres just west of downtown Chicago, and is home to more than 2500 animals.
| Media Contact: | Tricia Traeger Motion Computing (512) 637-1153 ttraeger@motioncomputing.com |
Erin Maher The Alliant Group (512) 437-4306 emaher@thealliantgroup.com |