ACU Researchers Explore iPhone in Higher Education

Abilene Christian University in Texas is launching a research project this fall to explore the potential uses of Apple's iPhone mobile device in higher education. The pilot study will involve faculty and educational technology developers to research "innovative applications for smart phones and media players in deepening learning in the 21st century."

ACU has been researching the possibilities for higher education that mobile devices have presented for years. But the iPhone stands out from the PDAs and other handheld devices of the past, according to Kevin Roberts, ACU’s chief information officer.

"The creation of Apple's iPhone--which offers many popular services in one device--has made what we see as the first really compelling solution," he said.

Faculty and staff at ACU had submitted more than 50 proposals for researching the topic. The pilot project will involve a small case study group to "analyze ways to use the iPhone as a learning tool--both in and out of the classroom--and as a way to enhance the university community," according to ACU.

The university is a private institution serving more than 4,800 undergraduate and graduate students in Abilene, TX.

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About the Author

David Nagel is the former editorial director of 1105 Media's Education Group and editor-in-chief of THE Journal, STEAM Universe, and Spaces4Learning. A 30-year publishing veteran, Nagel has led or contributed to dozens of technology, art, marketing, media, and business publications.

He can be reached at [email protected]. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidrnagel/ .


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