In the learn-something-every-day department, from Rug Hooking Online:

Q:I recently saw a program on TV that featured someone hooking with a tool that looked like an egg-beater. What is this technique and where can I find information on it?
A: The tool you described is often called a Speed Hook, which is used in a rugmaking technique called punch-hooking (the speed-hook is one punch hooking method). In punch hooking, the rug's loops are made by pushing material through the backing, instead of pulling the fabric up with a hook.
http://www.rughookingonline.com