Sustainability Solutions ? Appendix V Sample Courses for Rural E ...

Appendix V ? Sample Courses for Rural E-Learning 300-Level Pt. 3

RLS 303 ? Mobile Computing

As rural communities become more technically literate, it may be advantageous to offer a free course on mobile computing. Portable computing devices are more common than ever, including smartphones, MP3 players, eBook readers, laptops, and tablet devices. There may not be as significant a demand in rural communities for these mobile computers now, but the introduction of high-speed broadband into these communities will serve as a potential gateway for other information age devices to make headway in these markets. It will be important for individuals to understand the benefits and the limitations of these devices. The course will delve into the different types of mobile computing devices, including a historical look at what once constituted a mobile computer, and explore what the future of mobile computing holds, taking a look at new technologies such as iPad. The course will explore how to synchronize these technologies with their home computer, with a specific technical analysis on Bluetooth and the added functionality synchronization provides. This course will also explore consumer needs regarding mobile computing; it will answer questions such as if mobile devices are right for the end user and what specific type of mobile device best meets their needs. The course will give individuals tools on how to evaluate mobile computers for purchasing decisions, and explore what tools are necessary to get the most out of the mobile experience.

Objectives:

1. Introduce the concept of mobile computing.

2. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages inherent to mobile computing:

-????????? Examples include having the ability to access electronic information from anywhere on the global network for advantages, and the limitations created by battery life for disadvantages

3. Provide a historical background for mobile computing

4. Discuss the types of mobile computing devices:

-????????? Talk about portable players such as MP3 players, personal digital assistants (PDAs), eBook readers, smart phones, tablets, and laptops

-????????? Investigate the standard capabilities of each option as well as their relative prices

-????????? Elaborate on advantages and disadvantages of mobile computing as each relates to the respective devices

5. Introduce Bluetooth and provide a technical background

6. Provide a demonstration of synchronizing a wireless device to a home or business computer

-????????? Demonstrate the added functionality this creates

7. Give individuals the tools they need to evaluate mobile devices as well as the necessary background to decide which mobile device best suits their individual needs

8. Have a discussion about the future of mobile devices and the new possibilities created by technology such as the iPad and Android OS for mobile phones.

Source: http://bilodeau.org/?p=276

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