An exploratory research project by Brock Craft, Phillip Kent and Richard Noss

This research is investigating how learners may understand 3-D and non-Euclidean geometries by using Sun SPOTs as a digital extension of their bodily movements, to serve as an interface to connect learners’ capacity for kinesthetic thinking with digital learning environments. We build on 40 years of previous research with technologies such as Logo and programmable “Turtles”, but using Sun SPOTs to explore going forward to the next generation of educational IT tools in mathematics and science.

Research started in February 2008 and is currently combined with our research in the SPOT ON project:'Exploring the new potential for embodied and kinaesthetic learning, using programmable objects and robotics in mathematics education'.

To find out more, please contact Phillip and Brock.

The Sun SPOT is an experimental 'Small Programmable Object Technology' being developed by Sun Microsystems. It is a small device containing a range of sensors (3-axis accelerometer, temperature and light sensors), which can communicate via wireless with other SPOTs, computers and other devices. The hardware is fully programmable and expandable via a set of digital and analogue input/output connectors.

We are very grateful to Sun Microsystems for providing to us the Sun SPOT hardware, as part of its Project Sun SPOT research programme.

Website last updated: 27 May 2008 by Phillip Kent