Tablets in CS101

Introduction

CS 101 is a three-credit-hour, hands-on introductory course in application software. In the past, CS101 was held in one of the computer labs.

This year will be quite different because we will be using the Enhanced Learning Experience Via Advanced Tablet-PC Environment (ELEVATE). It is much more conversational, more collaborative, and certainly different.

Class A: regular PC room (24 students)

Class B: Tablet PC room (15 students)

Implementation

• A total of 28 students (out of 38) in two classes (Class A and B) volunteered to participate in the pre-survey during the first week. The result shows that 96% of participants had not had any learning experience using a Tablet-PC. However, student feedback indicated that many of them were excited to learn how to use a Tablet-PC.

• The major use of the Tablet PC in the Class B was to replace writing/drawing on paper with using the Tablet PC pen. Although writing on the screen of the Tablet PC often takes more time than typing with a keyboard, Class B students could complete all class activities as easily as Class A students could do with regular PCs.
• In general, the Tablet PC allows the instructor to have more direct interaction with students during a presentation. For example, the instructor could write answers quickly and easily with the pen on MS Excel application when students asked questions.
• The instructor could also write comments on MS applications such as Word and Excel with the pen when students submitted their projects through the Desire2Learn system. Although uploading files created extra work for the instructor, doing so delivered the comments correctly on the D2L system.

• “Using the Tablet PCs allowed the instructor to move  students from a computer lab to a more relaxed classroom.”

Challenges

• Learning new technology is not always fun because it often takes effort and time.
• Limitations in the hardware and software (i.e. screen size).
• Need more man power (I.T. help).

 

The Enhanced Learning Experience via Advanced Tablet-PC Environment (ELEVATE) program was made possible by a generous award by HP. Thank you HP!

CLASSES WITH TABLETS
Tablet Home
Intro Computer Software
Business Finance
Chemistry

OPEN-HOUSE CELEBRATION
Photos of Open-house

MORE INFORMATION
The Woods Newspaper Article on the Tablet PCs
Tablet Video
Photos of Tablet Delivery
Our Grant Proposal (PDF)