On the design of interactive classroom environments based on the Tablet PC technology

Nowadays, the widespread adoption of the Bologna Process in Spanish universities, is demanding to put into practice innovative proposals. There is no doubt that methodologies must move from traditional style and concept-based teaching to student-centred and competency-based instruction. A novel approach to design interactive classroom environments supported by mobile Tablet PC technology is presented. It is focused on integrating formative assessment into classroom practices and providing students with immediate feedback. We describe the six steps of the proposed approach and how they are implemented in a first-year Computer Engineering course. Initial results have showed that the dropout rate in the experimental group has been reduced more than 50%, while the number of students passing the course has almost doubled over the control group. Our approach has also promoted the students' autonomy and motivation, thereby improving their academic performance and enhancing their self-confidence in the learning process.