DISABILITY INFORMATION SESSIONOCTOBER 25, 2011

Can a Pen Make You Smarter?

What is a Smartpen?

Video of pencasts (www.livescribe.com)Pen interacts with custom paperComputer applicationsPurchase price starts at $100

Functions of Smartpen

Records lectures and meetingsAllows users to “select” parts of recordings to

access instead of having to listen to the entire file

Has capability to transfer written notes into digital text

Features of Smartpen

Extensive support library onlineTraining opportunities through webinars and

videosOnline communities specific to

ESL/Reading/Higher Education, etc.Fairly inexpensive compared to other

assistive technology

Benefits of Smartpen

Lecture – can record everything that is said during lecture. Can also capture symbols, diagrams, etc.

Homework – can playback entire lecture or parts of lecture. Can transfer notes to computer and create custom searches for key material

Exam Prep – can review key material and custom notebooks

Smartpen Applications

Musical instruments (guitar/piano)Language capabilityDictionaryCalculatorDownloads of educational applicationsGamesTransfer to portable devices such as Ipad

and IphoneShow video

Benefits for Students with Disabilities

Ideal for students who cannot listen to the instructor and write notes at the same time as they can jot down key words and spend more time listening to the lecture

Improves self-esteemPromotes a sense of independenceCan assist students with a range of

disabilitiesCapability to develop audio-tactile graphics

for VI

Livescribe Desktop

Free download to computerExample of archived materialShow video

Livescribe Connect

Allows user to send interactive notes and audio as pencasts to other people as a PDF

Show video

Implications for Education

Research with NotetakingStill a new product so there is limited

researchAvailable research does show that the use of

the pen does enhance student learningMajority of students report high satisfaction

levels (some find it too distracting)Teaching applications (use of Smartpen in

lieu of overhead)

How UCC is Using Smartpens

Inform students who may benefit from use at intake

Some students will purchase their own (or have them purchased by ORSC or the VA)

Received a grant to purchase 20 Smartpens which allow students to try them out and purchase for themselves for permanent use

Smartpen is usually indicated on accommodation form

Demo

Lecture (use document camera in place of overhead)

Show video of “featured pencast” on the digestive system

Participants can try individual pens

Student Testimonial

FAQ’s

• How does it record? Through a microphone or headset (adjustable settings).

• What is the memory capability? Depends on model. Ours are 2GB (about 200 hours of recording). Once full, info can be archived to the computer and the pen can be re-set.

• How do lectures get played back? Tap pen on notebook or access archives in Livescribe Desktop. Can also be used by portable devices.

• Can notes be shared? Yes, using Livescribe Connect.• Does it require special paper? Yes, can be purchased or

downloaded for free.• Can notes be organized? Yes, on Livescribe Deskstop.• How do I transcribe notes in digital text? Must

purchase Myscript software.

Resources

www.livescribe.com