PDAs: Revolutionizing The Way We Learn and Teach
Abstract
Miniature handheld computers called PDA’s are not only bombarding corporate America, but they are also noticeably making their mark on college campuses. The question is, how much impact are they making on the way students learn and instructors teach. These devices were born from a simple calculator and over two decades have transformed into a walking computer complete with Internet access. This paper identifies how PDAs have transformed over the years as well as their benefits and limitations. Although there are many pros and cons to using PDAs, it was clear that they can be used to enhance both learning and teaching if used and accepted in the appropriate manner. With the advancement in technology and data speeds it is evident PDA’s will continue to add value to education in the future.
Keywords
PDAs (personal digital assistants), using PDAs, Instructional Design Methods.
References
- Alexander, B. (2004, September/October). Going nomadic: Mobile learning in higher education. EDUCAUSE Review,39(5), 28-35. Retrieved on October 20, 2005 from http://www.educause.edu/pub/er/erm04/erm0451.asp.
- Brady, A. et al. (n.d. n.p) Dynamic composition and personalization of PDA based elearning-personalized m-learning. Retrieved on November 21, 2005 from http://m-zones.org/deliverables/d234_3/papers/brady-dx3-v1.pdf.
- Deviney, N. & Von Koschembahr, C. (2004, February). Learning goes mobile. Human
- Resource Executive Magazine. Retrieved on October 20, 2005 from http://www.workindex.com/editorial/train/trn0402-02.asp.
- Dominick, J. (2002, September). Ready or not—PDAs in the classroom. Retrieved on
- October 31, 2005 from http://campus-technology.com/article.asp?id=6705.
- Fallon, M. (2002, November). Handheld devices: Toward a more mobile campus. Campus
- Technology. Retrieved November 4, 2005 from http://campus- technology.com/article.asp?id=6896.
- Heebner, J. (2004). University of Maryland b-school gives Nextel 7510 handhelds to MBA students. Retrieved on November 19, 2005 from http://www.rhsmith.umd.edu/news/releases/2004/082704.html.
- Koblentz, E. (2005, May). The evolution of the PDA. Computer Collector Newsletter