My pros & cons so far by DD-edited 4/15/09

[patrisha w.]

Adding to the "not so crazy about it" list - the 5-way is a little difficult to control. I can't maneuver it accurately with my thumb flat.  I have to use my fingernail along the edge to move in different directions or I find myself pushing down on it instead.  Not such a problem for me but for someone without long enough fingernails it could be difficult.  Wonder how some of you are getting around this.  

I guess it is practice because I have VERY short fingernails and I move the 5-way with no problem. What I do have a little problem with is the wake-sleep switch. I actually let the nail on my right hand index finger grow a bit to help me with this!

[happyblob]

actually thats a good point DD, i never thought of the learning benefits by using two sensory channels at the same time.

It certainly sounds good in theory, but for me it doesn’t hold up in practice. The speech distracts me and slows me down.

[kyliedork]

It certainly sounds good in theory, but for me it doesn’t hold up in practice. The speech distracts me and slows me down.

“Use the Force, Luke.”

[DD]

I guess it is practice because I have VERY short fingernails and I move the 5-way with no problem. What I do have a little problem with is the wake-sleep switch. I actually let the nail on my right hand index finger grow a bit to help me with this!

Come to think of it, I do use my right index finger nail for that too, patrisha.

I've gotten used to the 5-way controller with time.  In the beginning, I had heard it described as a joy stick and I guess I thought I was going to be able to place the flat of my index finger on it and easily move it in any direction.  That is not the case.  It's more like a 5-way clicker and I have to use the edge of my index finger or thumb or a fingernail to push and pull it in different directions.  But, as I said, it's second nature now.

[DD]

It certainly sounds good in theory, but for me it doesn’t hold up in practice. The speech distracts me and slows me down.

I only use it on the treadmill, where I read a little more slowly than when I'm at rest.  I use it on the fastest speed.  That helps.

[Kind]

Regarding the speech ... I think it's good for kids who can't read ...and you wanna get them off to sleep quickly but don't wanna do the reading!!   

[kyliedork]

Kind, that sounds like K2 parenting syndrome