TimeMaps

 Over the last few months TimeMaps have been working with Durham University Computer Science Department to look at how single user programs can be adapted to multi-touch environments in an educational setting to enhance social learning.

Through One North East funding, Charles Adams, studying for an MA in Computer Science, has been looking to establish a set of principals that allow software previously designed for single users, such as our Dynamic History Maps, to be adapted using the University technology, to let them easily be turned into multi-user programs.

Multi-touch tables are becoming more common in schools and have the advantage of engaging students into learning socially - through debate, conversation, brainstorming, team work etc.

“One of the clear differences between multi-touch interactive tabletops is that it facilitates collaborative working. Rather than having individuals using individual computers, groups of learners can gather around a single computer table. They can be aware of how each other is working, and more easily interact. What is exciting is the process of uncovering what happens around the table; perhaps even seeing a change in the way people learn.” says Dr Hatch.

Charles is keeping a blog of his musings which can be found at http://charlesadams.wordpress.com.

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