nintendo ds as a learning tool

The Nintendo DS arguably already has the distinction of being the console with the widest variety of "game" software including fitness programs, photography manipulation and language teaching tools, along with actual games, of course. Now Nintendo is taking the DS one step further towards education. Nintendo announced today in Japan that it will partner with Sharp to develop a new educational tool called Nintendo DS Classroom, which will allow a teacher's PC to communicate with DS or DSi units in a classroom using special DS cartridges. Sounds like DS Classroom can be used to give tests and receive real-time answers as well as conduct classroom surveys over the connection. It seems like an obvious plan to eventually integrate math and vocabulary games and other learning software into the usage of this system, which could really keep kids more focused on learning in the classroom. Plus, just as many girls are into the DS as boys (possibly more even) so teachers wouldn't even need to worry about gender and teaching effectiveness. I say bring it on!

IGN: DS in the Classroom