Schools find the pen mightier than the mouse

As usual, schools are leading the way, evidenced by the “Tablet PC Rapid Adoption program” at the University of Texas at Austin.

Nineteen Compaq PC 1000 model Tablet PCs were given out and incorporated into architecture courses at the university during the fall 2002 semester. The Tablet PC tested was the Compaq Tablet PC TC 1000, a “clamshell” model. Software used included Autodesk’s Architectural Studio.

Architecture courses involved in the Tablet PC RAP included Introduction to Geographic Information Systems Physical Planning Studio, Urban Environmental Analysis, and Advanced Design, Europe.

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School of Architecture faculty said they were interested in experimenting with Tablet PCs because they felt more natural tools like a pen and slate could foster more creativity. The tablet also allows for a more informal approach than that of a mouse and keyboard. As one designer put it, using a mouse to design is like “drawing with a bar of soap.”

Because the tablets were easily transportable, and wirelessly connected via a LAN network, students were able to take their information into the field and perform mark-ups on-site. The tablet PC pen, students said, allowed a more intuitive interaction with design programs such as Photoshop and AutoDesk Architectural Studio.

One student commented that the “pen is almost perfect.” Another student, who has carpal tunnel syndrome, was astonished that she could “write for hours without pain.” Many were excited because the tablet’s format enhanced collaboration in an informal setting.

Outside of designing, students found the tablet PCs especially helpful for note taking. Microsoft’s Windows Journal allows students to write in freehand on their tablets, as if writing on a spiral notebook. They can search the text for certain topics, highlight or convert to typed text, provided they have decent handwriting (which many do not).
Sam Lubell