Laptops in class: What are they good for? What can you do with them?

Abstract

This chapter describes Clemson University's LaptopFaculty Development Program and its assessment, offering the program as one model for designing faculty development to successfully implement laptop mandates. The chapter also acquaints readers with the many types of in-class, laptop-based activities that meet best-practice criteria for effective teaching.

Postural risks and musculoskeletal discomfort of three preferred positions during laptop use amongst students

“…Research results emphasise the increased presence of laptops in higher education to enhance the learning process 16,17 . Literature provides ample evidence that report on the effect that the use of laptops has on musculoskeletal function of the human body.…”

Requiring Laptop Computers: Aviation Student Perceptions

“…As with any new innovative pedagogy, it is vital to provide training and incentives to the faculty who are expected to participate in Student Laptop Perceptions a new laptop initiative. Weaver and Nilson (2005) state "with the appropriate training in laptop technology and pedagogy, faculty could make innovative and intelligent student active use of laptops" (p. 4). Through this successful training, a survey found both faculty and students saw an increase in student engagement and learning while utilizing laptop computers in the classroom (Weaver and Nilson, 2005).…”

“…Weaver and Nilson (2005) state "with the appropriate training in laptop technology and pedagogy, faculty could make innovative and intelligent student active use of laptops" (p. 4). Through this successful training, a survey found both faculty and students saw an increase in student engagement and learning while utilizing laptop computers in the classroom (Weaver and Nilson, 2005). Likewise, Salinas (2008) proposes that there must be a major shift in the way faculty view technology in the classroom in order for successful integration to occur.…”

Mobile Computing Initiatives Within Pharmacy Education

“…Access to electronic resources within the classroom, perception as an ''advanced'' institution, and ability to increase interaction and collaboration are just a few of the touted benefits of ubiquitous computing. 1,3,4 The potential advantages, however, do not always result in satisfied faculty members, staff members, and students, particularly when usage and/or ownership are mandated. Measuring the effectiveness of these initiatives in creating learning gains is difficult, which furthers the debate on the value of such requirements.…”

“…Successful implementation of a mobile computing initiative requires that administrators, technical staff members, and department faculty members support the initiative. 12 Professional development for faculty members 4,9 and their buy-in to the purpose and benefits of the initiative 13,14 are 2 of the most prominent issues to address. Without faculty members who are supportive of the initiative and/or who have been adequately trained on how to utilize mobile computing within the curriculum, the initiative will not reach its full potential.…”