Hi-tech table helps children learn math well

Math is always one of the hardest subjects for students. To help them alleviate some of the pressure in their studies, experts from the University of Durham have conducted a research project called SynergyNet. After three years of research, they invented NumberNet multi-touch tables, which support the user to learn math.

Using more than 400 8-10 year old students at 12 schools, NumberNet tablets are capable of receiving commands made by multiple users at the same time through the infrared light detection system. These tables allow groups of students to solve math problems together. In the meantime, teachers will look at the results directly from these tables and may intervene if they find that a group of students is doing the wrong thing. They can also present new challenges to specific groups, send the group's answers to other groups or view them on the main board in front of the class for discussion.

After a period of experimentation, the team found that compared to the start of the study, 45% of NumberNet students improved on math learning, while this percentage on the paper-based learning group was only 16%. "Our goal is to encourage students to be more proactive in their studies, because knowledge is derived from sharing, problem solving and creativity rather than passive listening." Says Liz Burd, lead researcher. However, the limitation of this type of smart desk is that its cost is quite expensive and installation techniques are complex, so it is unlikely that it is widely used in schools.

References: Gizmag