British Project Sees UMPCs As Key To 21st Century Science Education

Is the classroom going mobile? This interesting project by British educators seems to think so. Researchers have forged a project that targets students between 11 and 14 providing them with handheld computers to be used both in the classroom and at home.

The ultimate aim, researchers say, is to encourage students to take a more scientific approach to their daily lives. “We now have the opportunity to guide children in doing 21st century science beyond the classroom,” said project co-leader Mike Sharples, Director of the Learning Sciences Research Institute in the University of Nottingham’s School of Education.

“They will be able to explore issues that matter to them, such as how to understand their bodies and keep fit, by carrying out explorations in their homes and discovery centres,” he said. “Their mobile computers will coordinate the activities and help them to debate with their peers and experts.”

Read more at PCWorld