PaperChains: Dynamic Sketch+Voice Annotations

In this paper we present a novel interface for collaborative creation of evolving audio-visual documents. PaperChains allows users to sketch on paper and then augment with digital audio, allowing both the physical and digital objects to evolve simultaneously over time. The technique we have developed focuses on affordability and accessibility in its design, using standard cameraphones and telephone connections, which allow it to be used in regions where literacy, technological ex-perience and data connections cannot necessarily be taken for granted. The main use-case that we focus on in this paper is for collaborative storytelling, an area which has been well studied and previously proven to be of value in resource constrained environments. To investigate the relevance of the approach in these contexts, we undertook two usability evaluations in India and South Africa. Results from these investigations indicate users ’ ability to both create and interpret stories using the software, as well as demonstrating high overall usability and enjoyment. We end with a discussion of the implications of our design and opportunities for use in other contexts. Author Keywords Sketching; audio; photographs; cameraphones

Design possibilities for the e-Schoolbag: addressing the 1:1 challenge within China

There is widespread enthusiasm for 1:1 computing in education. Recognizing that secure innovation of educational practice should be built upon contextual sensitivity, this article reported two case studies anticipating the potential development of 1:1 classes in the particular cultural context of China. The first case described how the new technology of e-Textbooks could align with a tradition where the textbook is central to teaching practice. A science teacher used the e-Textbook to design his pedagogy to accommodate the contextual learning needs of the classroom. Students reported a positive reaction. They understood that new learning possibilities were crafted through this engagement with diversified media formats that content fitted their class, and this gave them increased confidence in relation to both student–computer and interpersonal interaction. The second case study described how a social app could align with the local tradition of practice whereby a student’s performance in front of class is an important part of instructional practice. In this case, students who were learning native Chinese were offered the opportunity for performing within a novel “digital stage”: revealing high levels of engagement and a strengthening confidence with language performance