I must admit I sorta kinda have a leg up on this. I'm currently working in an IT department where RFID, handhelds, and needs-based software are developed. That's not what I do, but what I'm exposed to. I remember going to Ellis Island and enjoying the audio tours (my first exposure to this concept) back in 1996. It clearly enhanced the experience. This would simply take it a step further up the technology ladder. My favorite exhibits as a child at our then Museum of Science and Industry--now California Science Center--were the interactive ones. Give me something that "gives back," and I'm a lot happier. I understand, too, the problems of the public and sensitive technology. But they are currently making a new kind of laptop that is supposedly rugged and can be banged around without a lot of hassle. If they can do it for that, they may well do it for an IPAQ or comparable device. Now, if you can package it as education and say it will be used for school field trip education, you may be able to approach Gates or one of the other computer magnates (I know they get hit all the time, but that doesn't mean don't try, just be innovative in your packaging) to provide a supply at little or no cost. Next, how do you get the seniors to use the technology without having to do Computer 101 classes. Get a sophisticated senior, a docent or two, to do the equipment instruction. You'll have a lot less resistance. --- Pamela Silvestri <[log in to unmask]> wrote: > > > LOVE it that would be fabulous! This is innovative > -how clever you are to > think of this. > > It's pretty neat how most of us, while working > hands-on everyday can have > ideas like this come to mind so seemingly quickly > (of course it's our > experiences and education that allow this to > occur)...and we don't have to spend hours > brainstorming! > > Sometimes it can be the most simple detail that can > make a difference. So I > am reminded of an occurrence in an archaeology lab I > worked in. A student was > sorting a soil sample for iron scale (unaided -no > magnifier). > > Indigo Nights [log in to unmask] ========================================================= Important Subscriber Information: The Museum-L FAQ file is located at http://www.finalchapter.com/museum-l-faq/ . You may obtain detailed information about the listserv commands by sending a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "help" (without the quotes). If you decide to leave Museum-L, please send a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "Signoff Museum-L" (without the quotes).