The use of mobile wireless technology in higher education generates questions regarding what advantages this new technology generates. Studies (Kim, Mims, & Holmes, 2006) talk about the efficiency and effectiveness in teaching and learning created by mobile technology. But what does this mean? Certainly we can be more mobile, but how does this benefit learning? First, mobile wireless technology lets us communicate more easily. This allows us to collaborate more easily with other students and with faculty. Discussing topics of study with others allows us to come in contact with other ways of viewing a problem and its possible solutions. The phrase “two heads are better than one” can be expanded through collaboration to “many heads are better than one”. This collaboration can be real time or asynchronously, whichever is more convenient at the time.
Second, creating documents in digital form allows us to transmit and share information more quickly. We can take notes online, create reports, and transmit this information to other students and faculty because it is not in hardcopy form. Third, students see the importance of time management as learning and other environments become more and more seamless. Fourth, there is faster access to information as much of it is online. We can even read books online. We have access to this information through a wireless device; we do not have to visit a library. And fifth, we can take courses completely online, saving travel time and simplifying scheduling. In addition, there are indirect benefits to wireless technologies. We can have Internet access in areas where wired technologies can not economically and otherwise provide access. Within classrooms and on campuses the lack of wiring allows more flexibility for meeting locations.
This technology is in its infancy. As the technology matures and we become more comfortable with it, we will find more uses for it and more benefits.
Kim, S. H., Mims, C., & Holmes, K. P. (2006). An introduction to current trends and benefits of mobile wireless technology use in higher education. AACE Journal, 14(1), 77-100.
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2 comments:
When you discuss mobile technology are you referring to cell phones, laptop computers, pocket PC's, GPS receivers, or others, individually or collectively?
gdbear,
All forms of wireless technology can be used to support educational goals. The capabilities and power of cell phones as one example continues to improve to the point where lectures, searches for research materials, collaborating through chats and texting are now available.
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