Teaching laboratory classes for the Human Computer Interaction course has its advantages. For example I get to experiment with different tools & technologies/recently I played with MaKey MaKey. It's fun and here's why:
It's simple
MaKey MaKey is an invention kit where you can map keyboard keys or mouse clicks to daily objects around you. Just connect the objects to the board using alligator clips and you are all set to go. No programming required.
It's creative
Honestly you can map everything. I saw demos for a piano played using bananas (or the staircase) or a Dance-Dance-Revolution controller using buckets of water (Yes! You can depict water). Here's the official video:
I myself experimented and made a very basic MP3 controller using coasters shaped like vinyl discs (to go along with the theme). I just hit play/pause/next by taping on the coasters.
It's for everyone
You don't have to be a tech genius to make fun uses out of it. Even a four year old child can handle it. Switch from a simple controller for playing Mario Bros to a proper gamepad for Call of Duty or other more complex games and scenarios. Just flip it over and discover more options for you to expand your creative freedom.
There are a bunch of ways to improvise and create fun experiments with the MaKey MaKey. I invite you take it for a spin. As a final thought here's an experiment that caught my attention. It's my favorite. Check out the Screaming Carrot down below:
Final Rating ★★★★☆
From now on all my reviews will feature a five-star rating system.
★★★☆☆ - OKish. You won't regret it.
★★★★☆ - It's worth every penny!
★★★★★ - Awesomedary!
☆☆☆☆☆ - Better off buying a Shake Weight.
★☆☆☆☆ - Again, buying stuff I don't need.
★★☆☆☆ - Good... to give it as a gift.
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