Use of Smart Phones and Tablet PCs in the Learning Process

CHAPTER 1

Introduction

The technology has improved a lot in today's world that has significantly affected the level of the learning process. The learning process is an effective procedure that provides new and unique information to the individuals.

The learning process is an effective procedure of getting known about new and unique things. The learning process is mainly done for the purpose of introducing usually processes that would help the individuals in their future in one way or the other. The intervention of technology in the learning process is a new aspect in the educational environment that would help the future generation for their development (Bailey, 1983).

The non-wireless laptop computers have proven to be similar to desktop models in terms of the potential to interfere with these interactions; requiring stationary positioning to provide the Internet connection. Even the wireless laptop still presents the physical barrier of the lid and is not tailored to students' learning needs of interacting and collaborating with others in their learning. The recent re-introduction of the Tablet PC may transform how learners work and learn and become the catalyst that increases students' interest in technology (Attewell, 2004). A Tablet PC, a personal laptop computer, was designed to be even more compact than a laptop and to have additional features that mimic pencil and paper activities and utilize cutting-edge PC technology. The Tablet PC is a portable, wireless, lightweight (i.e., approximately three and a half pounds) laptop with a rotating screen that allows users to write directly on it, while holding the computer in their arms. The Tablet PC also has voice and handwriting recognition features that typically are not available in traditional laptop computers and as noted in the past studies “the Tablet PC has sparked renewed interest in electronic texts or e-books,” and they continue by saying “the Tablet PC provides intriguing opportunities for collaborative and classroom use” (Godwin, 2003, 4).

The Problem

The new technology has improved to great extent that it has altered the learning process for the students. The invention of smart phones and tablet PCs are the examples of the advanced technologies that have changed the way of learning and has largely improved the learning process by making it more feasible and understandable for the students. The application of these devices is also aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the learning process in the present learning environment of the world.

Students' interest in computer games typically designed for the students of higher education is lacking; their access to computers at home and school, oftentimes located in their room at home and surrounded by the students all the time that affect their educational activities. Thus, the technological role of these Tablets PCs and Smart phones is benefitting the students at one hand while creating difficulties for them on the other hand. Students are typically not drawn to computers and when their computer interests, skills, and abilities are compared to boys' computer interests, skills, and abilities, ...