Osmo – A Interactive Educational Tool for the iPad

Posted on July 5, 2014 by Carol Leynse Harpold, MS, OTR/L, SCLV, ATP, CATIS

Osmo game system logo

I can’t believe that I have not posted about the Osmo Game system – a truly interactive device for the iPad. The Osmo Game system was demonstrated by Lisa Reas, Professional Development Extraordinaire  at an edcampMKE this past May.  I was really WOWED by her virtual education activities including this iPad game system. The Osmo Game activities provide interactive, manipulative activities using real blocks, markers or tiles as a learning activity. As an OT, the games provide true fine motor, manipulative and visual perceptual engagement using the iPad and real manipulatives! (I want one!)

How does the Osmo Game system work?

Imagine blocks manipulated in front of an iPad that are sensed for their position in space using a device attached to the iPad. When blocks are manipulated and positioned appropriately according to the design presented on the iPad screen, visual placement is recorded by the device and app associated with the Osmo Game system. Visual feedback is given to the user on their production.

A little hard to imagine? Here is a video showing how the Osmo Games work to help you wrap your brain around the system …

Here are the activities or games that come with the Osmo Game system at present:

Newton is a problem solving drawing activity

Osmo Newton pic

Tangram Puzzle
Osmo Tangram pic

Tiles for Spelling
Osmo Words pic

 

 

 

All apps associated with the Osmo Game system are available for free.

Seem a little much for just completing a block design? Yes, perhaps, but consider the possibilities and engagement by students or adults for that matter. Our students are so used to electronic game systems and attaining engagement with our tech-savvy kids just isn’t what it used to be. So here is a mix of electronics, visual perception and manipulation! Further, just think of the potential if this could record and give feedback for letter formation, spacing perhaps handwriting, or better yet give feedback for tasks performed for individuals with visual impairments?  No, it is not there yet, but think of the potential. It certainly is beyond me!

Currently, the Osmo Game system can be pre-ordered for a reduced cost of $49. + shipping. The next shipping is projected for October (I am so sad I missed the August order date!!). Pre-orders can be made at the following link:

https://www.playosmo.com/?r=5022660920606720

Will this be in your OT mTool Kit? I can’t wait for mine to come…

Carol

About Carol Leynse Harpold, MS, OTR/L, SCLV, ATP, CATIS

OTR/L with more than 35 years experience in pediatrics, school based therapy and adult rehabilitation. Masters of Science in Adaptive Education/Assistive Technology with 20 years experience in AT in education of elementary, middle school, secondary, post secondary students and work environments for adult clients. A RESNA Assistive Technology Practitioner with ACVREP CATIS credentials, AOTA Specialty Certification in Low Vision, USC Davis Executive Certificate in Home Modifications, servicing adults and students with disabilities in employment, education, and home environments. A 2020 graduate of the University of Alabama Birmingham Low Vision Certification Program.
This entry was posted in Accessories, App Reviews, Apps for OT's, Apps for Special Needs, Drawing, Education, Fine Motor Development, Game, iOS, iPad, Virtual reality apps, Visual Perception. Bookmark the permalink.

2 Responses to Osmo – A Interactive Educational Tool for the iPad

  1. Patty Soldner says:
    July 5, 2014 at 8:59 pm

    This looks to be an interesting way to interact with the iPad in a new way~ a teacher in my district mentioned that all the kindergarten classrooms will have Osmo for their iPads this fall. I am curious to see how the kids will use this. I may have to join in!

    Patty Soldner, MOT, OTR/L

    Reply
    • Carol Leynse Harpold, MS, AdEd, OTR/L, ATP says:
      July 14, 2014 at 7:02 pm

      Hi Patty,
      How exciting, I agree that this is an interesting way of motivating students to work on visual perceptual skills with real manipulatives. How fortunate for the kindergarten classrooms. It will be interesting to see what student responses are to the Osmo activities! Please let others know, when school starts!
      I am looking forward to getting mine, unfortunately it may take a while.
      Thank you for your comment.
      Carol

      Reply

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