Characteristics of Pedagogical Models in the Mobile Teaching Studying Learning (TSL) Environments: Preliminary Findings of the I-Trace Project

This article discusses the use of pedagogical models and pen-based information and communication technologies (ICTs) as means of designing mobile teaching, studying, and learning (TSL) environments. The specific goal of this case study was to test the educational benefits and usability of the Web-Trace software application, and of a mobile tablet PC with the digital pen. The particular focus of the research was the cephalometry study module, arranged at the Helsinki University during the Spring 2007. The objects of the study were 12 dental students. The study sought to combine qualitative and quantitative approaches within an ethnographic research design. Data were collected using a network-based questionnaire. In addition, 11 students were interviewed. The data will be analyzed by using content analysis and statistical analyses. This article explores background of the study and highlights some preliminary findings of the research.