Using the Neo with Students
by Cheryl Dobbs
Review of Neo (manufactured by AlphaSmart, Inc)
Reviewed by: Cheryl Dobbs, Independent ICT/SEN Consultant, Melbourne
Having used the Neo keyboard, the latest in portable technology from AlphaSmart, over a period of time with a wide range of students of varying abilities, it has been interesting to observe their reactions and use. The Neo is considerably lighter and sleeker looking than its’ predecessor the AlphaSmart 3000 and possesses a larger and, infinitely clearer, screen display. Importantly, however, it is still as simple to use for both an individual and a class setting.
Why use the Neo?
Using a portable system for activities which only require basic word processing e.g. note taking, writing reports, stories etc is more cost effective than using the desk top, which is then kept available for other uses. Further editing etc can be undertaken when the text is transferred to the desktop at a later stage, if necessary. Printing is easy through USB or infra red eye direct from the Neo or the computer. The Neo is truly portable; using three AA standard batteries which last for up to 700 hours (in our situation a term of daily use). This means it can be used anywhere, taken on excursions, field trips etc and is robust enough to survive them!
Setting it up
As with the AlphaSmart, the structure for eight files is extremely useful for organisation. Students with their own machines can keep each file for one subject e.g. English, History etc which has made a significant difference to simplifying organizational difficulties. Since the machine does not require a lengthy opening process loading an operational system and then finding relevant files, it is instantly available the moment it is needed and writing is saved as soon as the machine is turned off. For students who have tried to use a laptop around school and given up because of the time it takes to set up, close down etc this can make a considerable difference to them deciding to use technology regularly. In addition, the vital necessity of filing (and retrieving) work accurately is no longer quite so critical!
Ease of Use
The keyboard is much smoother to the touch and more stable. The font size is now able to be configured to suit different users and the screen size more comfortable for displaying a number of lines of text. AlphaWord Plus is available with a spell check and thesaurus and other applets are available. The NEO Manager also makes file transfer much easier. The students found this machine as easy and as quick to use as the 3000
For students who only need a basic word processing or keyboarding facility, the use of the Neo may offer an affordable and more realistic option. Some of the secondary students I have worked with have resisted using technology which would have certainly made their lives easier because of the logistical problems of using a laptop around the school i.e. regarding portability, security and management issues so this may well fill that need.
Recommendation
Students of all abilities have learned to use the Neo (and the AlphaSmart 3000) quickly and easily. Their availability in schools as class sets would reap dividends for students of all abilities. Even in the limited time and situation of my observations, it has been interesting to see students ask to use the Neo as simply and as selectively as if they needed a pair of scissors. I find this heartening, as even from a young age, they are making choices selectively from a range technology of available to them, choosing tools to suit the purpose as and when it is required.