Portable Handheld Keyboard

For every technology there is a new and better technology up and running that makes the old one obsolete. When it comes to hand held devices in the classroom, such as cell phones, IPods, computers, etc. it is difficult to decide how to incorporate them into the classroom. Although i-pads and laptops are useful and limitless I fear that the changing technology is also hard to control. If a child is given a laptop to research and write a paper, the teacher runs the risk of constant redirection from inappropriate school sites and distractions. These are awesome resources but difficult to use in a large group setting. The portable handheld’s are efficient and create fewer distractions to the student.

The portable hand held keyboard is functional for any aged student. They provide an easy distraction free way to type papers, practice typing, and assist children with special needs. Although this hand held does not offer the internet they are an affordable substitute that can be used in a classroom or at home when a computer lab is not available. The portable keyboards have an LCD screen that display two lines of text. They also only weigh 2lbs and can be stored easily due to their durability. Since they only cost $169 they are affordable for classrooms or parents that may want their younger children to be able to type papers without access to the internet.
This hand held device has many uses in the classroom and for parents at home. This device does not require electricity, only batteries, and therefore it can be used in places other than a table or a computer lab. These devices can be given to students who can then find a quiet place in the room to focus on their writing with minimal distractions. They can also be used in cars or at home in a play space for a child that doesn’t want to work at the table. This creates a fun new atmosphere where a child can have their own space while creating something of their own. In the classroom they also have many uses such as a program called, Text2Speech, which converts the written words into spoken words (NEO, 2010). This is really functional for students that write and don’t like to re-read their work. This program will read your text back to you and students will be able to see where there are awkward parts, run on sentences or phrases that need tweaking.
For students in the classroom with special needs, it has many practical features. First of all, it is very simple to use, it has an instant on/off auto save feature (NEO, 2010) that makes it easy for the student to stay focused and on task without becoming impatient or frustrated with to many features and too many choices after start up. Some of its features include sticky keys which, “allow you to type combination keystrokes without pressing the keys simultaneously” (NEO, 2010). This is valuable for students with dyslexia who may type wrong letters and have trouble typing a word. Another feature is the slow keys which “help children with unsteady hands or difficulty in key targeting” (NEO, 2010). Lastly, it has options for large display font for children who struggle to see the screen. Overall this device is great for children just learning to use a computer or for children that struggle with the fine motor skills necessary for writing.
If I had to choose an age demographic it would be pre-k through 3rd grade. For children these ages some struggle with handwriting and often fall behind due to dyslexia or lack of fine motor skills. This is also the age before classrooms really start to use computers in the classroom. This gives students a jump start in learning.
This device is compatible with all Windows and Mac operating systems. It is also easy to send written text directly to your PC, Mac, or USB printer (NEO, 2010). It is compatible with windows XP, and vista, as well as Mac operating systems. Using only batteries it has a battery life of 700 hours. There is also a page with accessories to purchase along with your NEO if needed or wanted. Overall I thought it was a pretty cool device.