Kapil Sibal, India's Human Resource Development Minister, unveiled a touchscreen device with internet browsers, PDF readers and videoconferencing abilities this week. The device, which officials hope to put into mass production over the next year, costs only $35 to produce and has stimulated hopes that educational technologies can be brought to poor and rural areas.
Though it is doubtful that Steve Jobs has any huge concerns about competition from the Indians, this would be a tremendous step towards increasing the education levels of a huge population. The potential globally is enormous as well; if a functioning device that facilitates long-distance learning and access is available cheaply, it could benefit African states, Asia and even rural areas of more developed states. Maybe a bit forward looking, but exciting nonetheless.
The device was developed by teams at the Indian Institute of Technology and the Indian Institute of Science.
No comments:
Post a Comment