One of Obama’s major ideas behind his education platform, is implementing technology into the classroom. As we draw closer to the end of the first decade in the 21st century, it is vital that our children have access to more modern technologies.

Intel looks to be feeding off that same spirit, as they announced a new line of tablet PCs, specifically designed for children. These kind of computers have been released in the past, but usually they’re just a fraction of what normal PC or notebooks can accomplish. Instead, Intel has actually evolved the tablet PC, all the while having children as their main focus for their design.

The ‘Classmate PCs’ will release with two different models; Clamshell Classmate PC, and Convertible Classmate PC. On the surface they both are very similar, in design and size. They both have a hard, clam-shelled surface designed to withstand impact that children could put on it. Both of the models have a built-in camera. The models run from the Intel Atom processor as well.

They’re both very lightweight, and have a carrying handle for easy transportation around school. In the video that I’ll provide, both units run Windows XP with ease.

The two models start to differ when you start mentioning more advanced features, and options. The Clamshell Classmate PC is basically just a standard tablet PC with the features I mentioned above.

The Convertible Classmate PC has some unique features which really add to the functionality of a tablet PC. All of which start with the 180 degree swivel screen. The screen can twist, and be laid flat to where only the screen is exposed. This is where the touch screen interface comes in. The screen interacts with a stylus, which adds all sorts of functionality in the classroom. With their touch screen, Intel is boasting what is called “palm rejection”, so when you rest your palm on the screen to write, it won’t be recognized. This can keep unwanted marks from being made on the touch screen.

Intel is trying to find vendors to create some software for the PC, and with its use of Windows XP should have an easy search.

It’s refreshing to see Intel take the initiative to release this new line of PCs. Too often, children are working with sub-par computing systems at school. Or PCs for children are dumbed down to such a state that they really aren’t that useful compared with adult versions.

Here’s hoping that Intel’s Classmate PCs take off, and perhaps we can start seeing them around in some classrooms.

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