Introducing Tablet PCs into Synchronous Distributed Learning Environments

Distributed education is becoming an integral part of the programs at Georgia Tech. However, the traditional mode of synchronous distributed learning (DL) classes has typically suffered from several challenges that hinder effective teaching and learning practices. This paper is a case study that outlines work on a project to implement Tablet PCs into the design of DL courses to enhance their effectiveness in synchronous deployment. Feedback from students and faculty were collected as a means of assessing the potential impact of the Tablet PC modality in synchronous DL environments. Results indicate that this modality has several distinct advantages over more traditional DL modalities from the perspective of both students and faculty.