Executive SummaryThis paper explores the integration of tablets, such as the Apple iPad, in university classes and provides recommendations for other instructors to consider when adopting tablet technology. During the trial conducted in the summer of 2011 using iPads, we found that tablets had both academic and social uses, which should be considered when using this technology.The key to successfully adopting tablet technology was to ensure that students remained academically engaged with the device on a regular basis so that they became accustomed to its use. We found that the most useful ways to encourage academic engagement with the device included taking notes during lectures and conducting research during class. The connectivity associated with the devices allowed for enhanced interaction and collaboration among the students. We also found that tablets posed much less of a distraction to students than laptops, i.e., students who used tablets were less likely than laptop users to engage in off-task activities such as instant messaging, social network usage, and watching videos during a lecture.We make five recommendations for faculty who are considering adopting tablets as a mandatory component in their classrooms: 1) Know "everything" about the tablet operating system prior to distributing tablets to your students. 2) Decide early on how you would like to use the tablet in your class. 3) Ensure that you work closely with your institution's Information Technology department. 4) Make the tablet an integral component of your class. 5) Describe the features and benefits on the first day. 6) Carefully consider how to distribute the tablets.
We explore smartphone utilization by tourists from 24 countries visiting either Rome, Italy or Athens, Greece. By extending a standard technology acceptance model, we identify common travel uses for smartphones, which include taking photos, social networking, viewing maps, finding transportation and searching for shops and restaurants. Younger cohorts utilize their phones more than older cohorts, but there is no difference in utilization between females and males. The most important factors affecting behaviour are how often the tourist normally utilizes their smartphone when at home, and whether or not the tourist has non-WiFi data access. We conclude with recommendations for future research.
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