New Technology Literally at our Children’s Fingertips
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Posted: 2nd September 2013
Category: General Blog Posts
OK hands up – who finds it somewhat embarrassing, that sometimes our children know how to work the latest technology better and quicker than we do? Mum or Dad provide the gadget and the kids almost instinctively know how it works.
But do they know how it's made? Maybe not. And let's be honest, do they need to know? Maybe not.....well, not until now that is...
A DIY digital camera ‘Bigshot' has been designed and created with this very idea in mind. Its creators wanted kids to learn about the hardware involved in technology, and the concept behind how it all works.
It has been compared to the Raspberry Pi; another educational technology project.
The design has been focussed around making technology and concepts that are normally only encountered at college level, understandable at some level, to younger children. The theories are accessible even to a child as young as 8. The image processing, electronics and display technology have been made comprehendible and fascinating to the younger user.
The parts must be assembled in the correct sequence, in order for the camera to work. It's supported by an interactive guide which explains the science behind its components, and helps and guides the user to assemble the camera.
And here's where new technology meets old-school - it even has a cranking handle to allow pictures to be taken when the battery runs out!
It's seen as a whole experience – from learning how to build it, to building it, to eventually using it to take pictures.
Bigshot's creator Prof Shree Nayar, plans to use part of the cash to send Bigshot cameras to underprivileged children around the globe.
From a personal point of view – as a buyer and distributor of electronic components, but not too au fait with how it all works, forget the kids - I would find this a fascinating project to undertake!