Some things just naturally go together¾like peanut butter and jelly, bees and honey, and Ball State and technology.

That's why Microsoft is working with the university to develop code and content for potential educational applications for the Microsoft Surface, called the "coffee table that will change the world." The Surface computer provides effortless interaction with digital content through natural gestures, touch, and physical objects.

The partnership furthers Ball State's national prominence for it use of technology and emerging media as innovative teaching tools, both inside the classroom and collaboratively with industry professionals.

Microsoft Surface and other technologies were on display during Tech4U, an event designed to introduce some of these emerging technologies through interactive demonstrations and seminars with technology leaders and nationally recognized faculty from Ball State.

"Technology never stops changing. It's always improving and evolving in some way," says Phil Repp, Ball State's vice president for information technology. "This university has the reputation, expertise, and industry partnerships to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to uses of technology and emerging media in higher education, and this is a fantastic venue to showcase our efforts."

The event also featured other demonstrations including the use of iPhones and iPod touch, Blackboard, and Second Life in higher education.