January 2010 - Distractions in a mobile classroom

This month we are examining how technology can be a distraction in the classroom. How do we as instructors deal with distractions? Are there other options? There's no doubt that the classroom learning environment is changing and in turn, teaching must change. How can we assist our faculty members in the development of new skills?

Podcasts - Educational Networking

An podcast interview with Berlin Fang by Dr. Maureen Wideman

Play it / hear it - MP3 - 15 minutes

From Distraction to Engagement: Wireless Devices in the Classroom

by Berlin Fang

This article discusses how technological distractions can become technological engagement in the classroom, such as making wireless devices part of instruction, from cell phones as clickers to laptops for on-the-fly web research.

Wireless Laptops as Means for Promoting Active Learning in Large Lecture Halls

by Miri Barak, Alberta Lipson, and Steven Lerman

This paper reports on a study that examined the use of wireless laptops for promoting active
learning in lecture halls. Class observations showed that the use of wireless laptops enhances student-centered, hands-on, and exploratory learning, as well as meaningful student-to-student and student-to-instructor interactions. However, findings also show that wireless laptops can become a source of distraction.

Good Intentions and Unanticipated Effects: The Unintended Consequences of the Application of Technology in Teaching and Learning Environments

by John Nworie and Noela Haughton

This article reflects on the Theory of Unintended Consequences as it applies to the use of technology in the classroom.

Available from the UOIT Library.

Other Resources:

Laptop Enabled Active Learning in the Software Engineering Classroom: An Experience Report

by D. Port and R. Kazman

The University of Hawaii has been moving towards an "active learning" approach to software engineering education by replacing passive slide-show lectures with a series of short lectures followed by in-class exercises, enabled though the use of wireless networked laptops. The results suggest that students like this approach more, do better, and evaluate the courses more positively.

Available from the UOIT Library.

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