Kids and Technology
- daisypope
- Jun 29, 2019
- 5 min read
We are always warned of the damaging effects of technology on our kids... But this week we have some new releases that embrace technology and improve children's' learning. From a build you own lap top to an intelligent magnifier. It's a tech heavy week with the debut of a robotic duck and 3D printed soft robotics to add in the mix too!
Spot Bug Magnifier
One of the best things about being a kid is getting muddy. It is acceptable to play in the dirt and discover all the little critters crawling through the dirt. San Fran Design studio New Deal Design have married physical and digital play through their latest concept Spot. Spot is an artificial intelligent magnifier that identifies bugs when a child points it at them. The device uses object recognition to identify the object or bird and then uses speakers to mimic their sounds as if it is saying hello to the child. Spot records all of the creatures that the child finds during their adventures. At the end of the day the child can use a small projector that is embedded in Spot's head to project images of all their findings on the wall. Then Spot will create an age appropriate story for the child using the bugs they have collected during the day. The narrative will provide much more detailed information about the bugs and birds that have been seen for children to learn about. Although just currently a concept it is hoped that the technology to create Spot isn't too far off. Spot is a great example of using technology away from phones. Many companies have created learning tools for kids that use their phone, but not many have eliminated the need of a phone all together. It is a great step away from screens in such a digitally reliant age and will encourage kids to go outside more and discover what's out there in nature. See the video at https://www.fastcompany.com/90367567/want-your-kids-to-put-their-screens-down-heres-how-ai-could-help.
Build your own Laptop
I didn't have too much experience of computers when I was at primary school. We had a few clunky laptops that we had to share in pairs when I was 11, and I learnt how to create cool word art and slide transitions on Powerpoint.. but that was as technical as it got. However with technology ever evolving and the need for tech genius' ever expanding children are learning more technical stuff from younger ages. This week we have the release of a build your own laptop from the collaboration of Kano and Microsoft. The laptop comes in a box, with story book like instructions to make building the laptop easier to understand. When the child starts connecting parts to the circuit board LED's light up to indicate the connection. A magnifying glass is included so kids can really look at the intricate detail of the technology. The wires and connections are colour coded to help further and the back of the PC is transparent so kids can see what happens when the computer is being used. As well as learning about the hardware the computer has apps that teach kids about coding, data and other technicalities. The idea is to make a building a computer as fun as building Lego for kids. The PC kit is a great introduction for kids into the world of technology, They might use computers everyday at home, but it would be fascinating for them to learn about what actually makes the computer work. The kit could also inspire kids to think about engineering and technology jobs when they get older. It is certainly a great kit to get them thinking about the future of technology whilst also having fun learning. See more at https://www.dezeen.com/2019/06/26/microsoft-kano-build-your-own-pc-technology/.
Robot Duck
One thing I love about writing this blog is that it has introduced me to problems that I never knew existed, but to some people it can be devastating. In Japan a Nissan Engineer has invented a robotic duck that will reduce the need for Rice Farmers to use herbicides and pesticides. The duck will paddle around and kick up the weeds which mimics what real ducks would do. It will also eat insects that will turn into manure and act as a natural fertiliser for the rice plants. The robot uses Wifi, batteries, solar power and GPS to navigate through the flooded rice fields. The idea behind the project is to help protect rice farming in Japan which is under threat due to the ageing population. Underneath the robot are two rotating rubber paddles that mimic the duck's feet. The paddles oxygenate water and prevent weeds from rooting. It's a great idea and I can imagine would be of a huge help to Rice Farmers. My only question is... What happened to the real ducks? I'm sure there is a reason why they are not being used. I guess I'll have to do some more research to find out. For now see the video at https://www.designboom.com/technology/nissan-robot-duck-rice-fields-farming-weeds-06-24-2019/.
FLXO Soft Robotics
When I think of Robotics hard metallic objects come to mind. However Designer Arnav Wagh has create FLXO which it a 3D printed soft robotic. FLXO are interlocking flexible pneumatic muscles that work a little like origami. The muscles can be easily created an 3D printed so that they are readily available to any budding technologists who enjoy building robotics at home and can bu customised to meet their needs. Where as currently soft robotics are much harder to get hold of. The soft robotics are squishy so can adapt to many environments, which also makes them safer for collaborative human and organic work. FLXO is designed to be interlocking with existing robotic kits, so you will not need to buy a whole new kit to fit the muscles they can just be a great addition. I think this is a great product to make robotics more available to everyone and make it seem more fun, With the bright colours and versatility of FLXO I can certainly see this being used by children to learn about robotics. As with the build your own laptop, it is important in our technological age children lean about different technologies young so they are aware of is possibilites, which could inspire them to be great technological entrepreneurs as they get older. The release of FLXO has certainly peaked my interest in making robotics and made me want to give making robotics a go, something I never thought I'd say!.... See more at https://www.designboom.com/design/arnav-wagh-flxo-soft-robotics-combines-3d-printing-and-origami-06-28-2019/
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