Using Wireless Tablet Personal Computers To Extend Engineering Technology Classrooms And Enhance Learning

Abstract NOTE: The first page of text has been automatically extracted and included below in lieu of an abstract Using Wireless Tablet Personal Computers to Extend Engineering Technology Classrooms and Enhance Learning Introduction The Engineering Technology Department is using wireless tablet PCs to expand its just-in-time education initiative, dual credit program with high schools, and its one year technical certificate programs. The department is using the wireless tablets and classroom management software to enhance classroom technology on various under-served off-campus locations. By incorporating them into its courses, the department is able to create distance education courses and improve teaching methods. To take advantage of the power of the tablet PCs, classroom presentations are converted to PowerPoint presentations and more problem-based case studies that support critical thinking, interactive learning, and team/peer instruction are added. The Engineering Technology curriculum has many problem-based courses and laboratory exercises that can be used to support active and collaborative learning while using the wireless tablet PC. The wireless capability of the tablets allows for the quick conversion of a regular classroom to a computer lab. All that is required is the wireless tablets and an access point connected to the Internet if Internet access is desired. The instructor can use the tablet PC and projector to make presentations. Using the pen input, the instructor can easily annotate PowerPoint slides during the presentation and can create and solve new problems in real time. The tablet PC and projector eliminate the need for a blackboard. Having the flexibility to teach courses with minimal facilities allows the Engineering Technology Department to move its classrooms to appropriate off-campus sites near the students. Rationale Historically the Engineering Technology programs have been available only at the main technology campus. Students knew what field they were interested in, were very mature, working, and advancing their careers. To attract more students, the Engineering Technology Department has developed a just-in-time initiative. The department is offering a seamless education that starts with a technical certificate and progresses to an associate’s degree and beyond. The department is developing the capability to offer the certificate programs at locations throughout the local area, including the urban campus. As the course offerings expand, the student population consists of a broader range of students with multiple commitments and a wider range of socioeconomic circumstances. To keep these students interested, the department is incorporating new technology and teaching methods. The new technology and teaching methods also support the Engineering Technology Department’s commitment to accreditation and employers. Its graduates must be able to apply creativity to the solution of problems and effectively communicate their solutions orally and in writing. Using the tablet PC and adding more problem solving exercises and presentations to the courses help develop those skills. Figure 1 shows students collaboratively working on a problem. Figure 2 shows one of the student’s classroom presentations. Wireless tablet PCs are a