Towards life long learning: three models for ubiquitous applications

Abstract

SummaryIn this paper, we present three experimental proof-of-concepts: First, we demonstrate a Ubiquitous Computing Framework (UCF), which is a network of interacting technologies that support humans ubiquitously. We then present practical work based on this UCF framework: TalkingPoints, which was originally developed for use at trading fairs in order to identify each participant and company via transponder and provide specific information during and after use. Finally, we propose GARFID, a concept for using advanced technologies for teaching young children. The main outcome of this research is that the concept of UCF raises a lot of possibilities, which can bring value and benefits for end-users. When one follows the Working-is-Learning paradigm, it can be seen that the implementation of this type of technology can support Life Long Learning, thereby providing evidence that technology can benefit everybody and make life easier.

Facilitating Role of 3D Multimodal Visualization and Learning Rehearsal in Memory Recall

“…The notion that optimal learning depends neither on visual nor auditory modalities, but rather both, reveals the bidirectional connection between sensory integration and memory dynamics. Findings not only add insights to the existing research on ubiquitous technology, but further elucidate the sensory integration theory which predicted that sight and acoustic resonance converged to facilitate learning and guide subsequent knowledge transfer ( Holzinger, et al ., 2010 ;Koedinger & Roll, 2012 ). It was found that performance accuracy was at least partly due to the overlapping of bimodal visualizations, which reinforced the existing literature on sensory integration ( Easton, Srinivas, & Greene, 1997 ;Amedi, Malach, Hendler, Peled, & Zohary, 2001 ;Amedi, Jacobson, Hendler, Malach, & Zohary, 2002 ;Ernst & Bulthoff , 2004 ;Millar & Al-Attar, 2005 ).…”

“…The historical roots of these fi ndings can be traced back to the traditional theory of observational learning ( Tomasello, 2000 ;Ashcraft & Radvansky, 2010 ). Observing interactive 3D visualizations in a multimodal environment enhanced learning acquisition and abstract concept formation (e.g., Holzinger, Kickmeier-Rust, & Albert, 2009 ;Holzinger, Kickmeier-Rust, Wassertheurer, et al ., 2009 ;Holzinger, Nischelwitzer, Friedl, & Hu, 2010 ;Mujacic, et al ., 2012 ). Findings suggested a slight advantage in learning acquisition when the students had access to both visual and audio immersion compared to either modality alone.…”

Effects of 3D Virtual Simulators in the Introductory Wind Energy Course: A Tool for Teaching Engineering Concepts

“…It was also important that virtual learning had the ability to take place independent of location, especially today in our knowledge-based e-society. Students should learn from other sources besides a regular PC (Holzinger, Nischelwitzer, Friedl, & Hu, 2010; Larsen, Soerensen, & Grantcharov, 2009; Sanchez, Rodriguez, Gutierrez, Preusche, & Casado, 2012). Hence, the simulator in our research project will be integrated into relevant curriculum and used extensively by students both inside and outside of their classroom (i.e., approximately 10% of in-class activities will utilize the simulator as well as substantial usage outside of class for homework and study).…”

“…While a number of early efforts have been made to develop MR learning materials in various fields (Abawi, Dörner, & Haller, 2005; Behringer et al , 2007; Christian et al , 2007; Mujacic, Debevc, Kosec, Bloice, & Holzinger, 2010; Holzinger, et al , 2012), cost and technological limitations have prevented wide-spread adoption. Advances in mobile computing provide great potential to continue these early efforts and develop materials that are easily accessible and distributable on popular consumer-level mobile devices (Holzinger, et al , 2010; Mujacic, et al , 2010; Holzinger, Lehner, Fassold, & Holzinger, 2011a).…”

FouSE: An Android Tool to Help in the Teaching of Fourier Series Expansions in Undergraduate Education

“…In (Mujacic et al, 2012), Modelling, Design, Development and Evaluation of a Hypervideo Application for Digital Systems Teaching is presented and discussed. The process of life-long learning, in conjunction with three different models for mobile/ubiquitous applications is discussed in (Holzinger et al, 2010).…”