Using Mobile Devices to Foster Social Interactions in the Classroom

Abstract

This paper reports about the development of a system supporting problem-based learning in the classroom. Its principal design principles are the combination of computer mediated and face-to-face interaction and mobility to ensure a high level of motivation. The main contributions of this solution are: a) being a full peer-to-peer application it can be used in any situation, inside the classroom, in labs, museum or even in the open air; b) the teacher can create new problems "on the fly" and send them to the students anytime; and c) provides the teacher with powerful assessment and feedback possibilities. The paper also reports about a first evaluation of the system called MCI-Supporter.