The Magic Carpet interactive projection system is just one of their new technologies. The system projects interactive games and images onto the floor so that users can play with and control the images simply by moving on or over the projected image – even with the slightest of movements. Its multi-user interaction supports group activities allowing for collaborative play with able-bodied peers. Add in the Tobii PCEye, (a clip-on eye control device for a computer) and Sensory Eye FX software, and students with even the most significant physical disabilities can actively participate in games with their peers. They can join in by controlling the fun Magic Carpet activities by eye control alone. A great way to build competence in eye control before moving on to more demanding applications too.
Mmm … it’s hard to convey how cool these tools are with words alone. Click here to watch a short video to help to bring it all to life for you!
To see some of the other truly innovative multi-sensory environment installations being created by the Sensory Guru team in the UK, visit their website or join their active Facebook Group. Their inspirational catalogue of options and ideas is also wonderful to flick through.
The great news just in this week is that these technologies are now available across Australia and New Zealand from Bas Tijdhof at Link-AT Assistive Technology in Adelaide. Bas will also be displaying the Magic Carpet and EyeFX at the Inclusive Learning Technologies Conference 2012. It will be a popular (and fun) exhibit for sure!
How cool! I have seen these in some of the shopping malls but never applied to education. I wonder if smaller, more affordable versions might come up for idevices to enable families to take advantage of this cool technology!