Tech in the Classroom: Brookstone Laser Projection Virtual Keyboard

What is it?  It’s a little box that projects a virtual keyboard onto any surface. The keyboard can work with tablets, smartphones or other devices that lack traditional keyboards. Of course, it could also work with a traditional computer in place of a normal keyboard (if your computer has Bluetooth).

How does it work?  A small box connects with your device over Bluetooth. The box projects a “laser” virtual keyboard onto any surface.

How hard is it to use?  It’s easy to use, but it does not feel like a traditional keyboard. Because the keyboard is virtual, there is no physical interaction when a key is pressed. Put simply, it works well, but it feels a little odd and takes some getting used to.

How well does it work?  Writing a novel on it might be a little challenging, but as a data entry tool for a tablet, the device works really well. There is a bit of a learning curve in getting used to the non-traditional keystroke feel (or really, lack of a feel), but once you play with it a little, the device works fine.

How do I use it in the classroom?  It’s a novelty more than a useful tool. There are certainly cheaper tablet keyboards, but none that seem quite so futuristic and just plain cool. There is no particular reason to use this in your classroom, but students will line up for a chance to try the technology.

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Read about other products featured in the Tech in the Classroom series.

Tech in the Classroom is a recurring feature that examines widely available technology, software and gadgets and how they might be used in a school setting. 

Article by Daniel Kline, EducationWorld Contributing Editor
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