Mobile Technology Integration in Modern Classrooms

Benefits of Mobile Technology in Education

Statistics concluded that 20% of laptops will be mobile in the next 10 years. 40% of children aged 6-8 years old have used a smart device. Smart devices allow access to large amounts of information and feature quick boot times, wireless capabilities, portability, and long battery life.

Desktop vs Mobile Devices: A Comparison

Although mobile is continuously increasing its capabilities, it still has limits when using intense resource applications (e.g., AutoCAD).

Mobile Devices

• Instant on
• Portable
• Longer battery life
• Built-in cameras, video cameras, and microphones
• Touch-enabled, engaging content
• Wireless capabilities

Desktop and Laptop Computers

• More storage and more processing power
• Larger screen and full keyboard
• Easier to manage files and storage
• Existing resources and websites can be used

Disadvantages of Mobile Devices

• Management and configuration issues
• Possibility of privacy leak: the phone has a lot of personal information and there is a possibility of someone else accessing your phone
• Security concerns
• Distraction
• Affects real interaction
• Cost increases with newest versions

Disadvantages of Desktop and Laptop Computers

• Not portable
• Use more space
• Energy life limitations
• Software is more expensive
• Dependent on power sources

Device Ownership and Management Models

Personal Ownership Model (BYOD)

The institution does not manage the configuration but does manage the data on the device. In the BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) deployment model:

1. The institution may configure the device at an initial stage.
2. Users manage their own apps and content.
3. Users opt in to a cloud-based service.
4. Institution and users can own the actual device.
5. Institution can give apps or content as users require them.

Institution Ownership Model

The institution has full ownership of the device and is responsible for all device configuration and content.

1. Institution configures all devices.
2. Institution manages the purchases and download of resources and apps.
3. Users cannot purchase apps and must requisition them from the host.
4. Suited for shared or 1-to-1 deployment models.
5. Centralized computers will be used for syncing, updating, and backup.

Layered Ownership Model

A combination of previous models.

1. Initial configuration by the institution.
2. Some apps are preloaded on the device by the institution.
3. Users can add to preloaded content through a personal store account (e.g., App Store).
4. Users can opt into external clouds for backup and upload of material.
5. Sync stations can be used that allow users to connect for backup, restore, and updates.