Work in progress: Analysis of mobile technology impact on STEM based courses; Specifically introduction to engineering in the era of the iPad

Abstract

This paper will demonstrate the impact on students' academic performance utilizing new technology (iPad) on a subset of course objectives within an Introduction to Engineering course - UNIV 1301. This paper inherently focuses on student perceived value and learning impact (comprehension of learning outcomes). An iPad was provided to students along with focused activities to gauge differences in comprehension of learning outcomes and student perceived value. Student perceived value was measured via a student attitude survey (Likert scale) prior to and after technology was implemented. For the assessment of comprehension assessment the following methodology was followed: both cohorts of student were taught the same way with the same technology tools up to the first semester exam to limit and account for the variance of the classes grades. Starting on week seven iPads were provided for the second cohort of students. Variances between the cohorts were again assessed on the second and again at the final class average. The results of this analysis show an increase in learning impact for exam II but show no change in the final class average. The results from the attitudinal survey show a very positive attitude towards the implementation of the iPad in the classroom and this yielded a very positive classroom environment. © 2011 American Society for Engineering Education.