That's an interesting one. We've faced similar questions to answer when we were looking to pilot an in-class response system that would ideally use students' own mobile devices as opposed to dedicated clickers. We were lucky with this because the system we haven chosen to use interfaces with the University's existing TurningPoint handsets, so students objecting/unable to use their own device (aside from being able to use uni wifi as opposed to their 3G data connections), also had a backup of using the clickers that we still provide a small number of in lectures. So with that we were able to in some way answer questions in this area. Of course the technology I'm talking about is aimed at on-campus use.
When we started with the pilot we were pretty sparse with advice about using the 3G/wifi. We just said that depending upon contract 3G charges may apply and instead to use wifi. I had considered at the time that the data used by the response system was very low, however with mobile phone companies absolutely cracking down with their fair usage policies (T-Mobile I frown on you), and instructors intending their students consume rich media via Bb Mobile, students could very quickly run out of their monthly allowance. T-Mobile policy at moment is internet surfing is unlimited, but things like Youtube and possibly app downloads max out at 250mb/month. For my wife an average smart phone user, Youtube stops working after two days of her contract month. So I think it's a good point.
Will Moindrot
Learning Technologist, University of Manchester
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From: Blackboard/Courseinfo userslist [[log in to unmask]] on behalf of BLACKBOARD-USERGROUP automatic digest system [[log in to unmask]]
Sent: 08 November 2012 00:05
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Subject: BLACKBOARD-USERGROUP Digest - 5 Nov 2012 to 7 Nov 2012 (#2012-146)
There is 1 message totaling 30 lines in this issue.
Topics of the day:
1. Advise on Blackboard Mobile Learn
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Date: Wed, 7 Nov 2012 10:28:59 +0000
From: Dom Gore <[log in to unmask]>
Subject: Advise on Blackboard Mobile Learn
Good Morning All,
We are reviewing the potential questions that could arise from our pilot projects of Mobile Learn, and one of the questions asked by Senior Management is, what can we offer students who object to using their own 3G data allocation on their own personal contracts. We have considered the options for Mifi systems, although this could prove to be an issue with using pay-as-you-go systems and the allocation of these devices for students going on placement and trips abroad.
After receiving advice from Blackboard's mobile division directly, I thought it would be best to ping this question to the user forum to see if anyone had any advice or experienced the same issues when implementing Mobile Learn in their Institution.
Any input to this would be greatly appreciated.
thanks
Dom
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End of BLACKBOARD-USERGROUP Digest - 5 Nov 2012 to 7 Nov 2012 (#2012-146)
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