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Tech in the Classroom:

Penveu
 

What is it?    This is a small, handheld tool that has the functionality of a mouse and can digitally write on any surface, from almost any distance. It can write in different colors, erase and highlight anything in a presentation.

How does it work? The device uses technology previously used for satellites, cruise missiles and smart bomb navigation systems. The handheld boasts a high-speed camera, three gyroscopes, 12 accelerometers and three magnetometers. And that is just to let the Penveu know exactly where it is pointing.

The image shown on the screen or TV, or on the wall (via projector) has more than 200 targets embedded on it. The Penveu’s camera sees them and then targets specific pixels, allowing the user to write or draw in the precise location he chooses, from anywhere in a room.

penveu

How hard is it to use? This literally is a “point-and-shoot” device. There is no OS or any complicated interface. The associated Penveu box just needs to be connected to a projector, monitor or TV via a VGA connection. Once it’s set up, teachers can jump right into any presentation.

How well does it work? Considering the copious amount of next-level tech crammed into such a small device, it should work amazingly well. This is amplified by the fact that it is being marketed as a replacement to interactive whiteboards, which can cost upwards of $3,500. The Penveu is slated for a $500 price point for the education market.

How do I use it in the classroom? This is a presentation tool, and presenting is a good portion of a teacher’s job. The Penveu can be used for any lesson on any topic.

Related resources

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 Jason Tomaszewski, EducationWorld Associate Editor
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