I was very excited today to learn that My work around Kinectimals, using the Kinect device made the Horizon Report as an example of Natural User Interfaces.
http://www.nmc.org/publications/2012-horizon-report-k12
The project is described on p. 34 (p. 38 in the pdf):
Microsoft Kinect in Grade 1:
go.nmc.org/microki
Alberta Education is exploring the use of Microsoft Kinect in developing young students’ motor skills
while encouraging active learning. In the experiment, students will use the unit to interact with baby wildcats
and learn all about wildlife.
Unfortunately it is mislabeled, as the project was completed when I taught in Scotland, for Midlothian Council. I do work for Alberta Education now which is where the confusion came from, but it was still a really fun early years project.
The Horizon Report focuses on the post about using Kinectimals for Inspiring Active Play and Motor Skill Development. I really like the post because it details how the kinect is really different from other technology as it uses the natural gesture technology to aid in the development of motor skills such as throwing and catching.
http://www.trailsoptional.com/2011/04/kinectimals-inspiring-active-play-and-motor-skill-development/
I’ve also written about Literacy, Science, and Art connections with Kinectimals:
http://www.trailsoptional.com/2011/05/kinectimals-literacy-science-and-art-connections/
It was part of a larger project all about Cats and Dogs using Kinectimals and Nintendogs:
http://www.trailsoptional.com/2011/05/kinectimals-and-nintendogsa-games-based-learning-project/
And a summary of using Kinectimals in the Classroom – please add to it!!
http://www.trailsoptional.com/2012/01/interesting-ways-to-use-kinectimals/
