Microsoft Surface Pro

Microsoft Surface Pro

The Surface Pro from Microsoft is an ultra light weight tablet/laptop hybrid. It features a detachable keyboard, touch screen with stylus (sold separately) and a stand. It comes in a variety of different models, such as the Surface Laptop Go, Surface Laptop 4, Surface Go 2, Surface Pro 7, Surface Pro X, Surface Book 3 and Surface Studio 2.

With such a range of Surface Pro devices, knowing which one might such an individuals needs can be tricky. To find out which model might suit your purposes try this website - https://www.microsoft.com/en-au/surface/devices/help-me-choose.

The Surface Pro, as long as it is running a full version of Windows, will run high level assistive technology software such as JAWS, ZoomText and Fusion.

Classroom Applications

Surface Pro's can be used in a huge variety of ways in the classroom. They can be used to create content in software programs such as Microsoft Word, PowerPoint or Paint. They can be used to access the internet, emails and school software management systems. Laptops allow students to have digital access to files in formats and sizes that suit their needs and via auditory methods. They can be very useful tools in a plethora of different contexts and are mainstream devices that are used throughout the world in workplaces and higher education settings.

Surface Pro's can also be used as a tool to learn to touch type, a vital skill that the student will use throughout their life. Use of software such as the online TypingClub platform or TypeAbility (in conjunction with JAWS) are good examples of programs that help students to learn how to touch type effectively.

Ongoing monitoring of posture when using a device such as a laptop, and especially a Surface Pro is vital, both at school and at home. If a student is leaning in towards the screen to access the visual materials, this can be the start of poor posture which can have some negative consequences later in life. An increase in font size, use of magnification software or a slope desk may help to improve posture.

Generally, laptops, including Surface Pro's are not recommended for students under the age of 8, except in some specific situations.

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