Incorporating tablet portable computers into the classroom

Universities are constantly updating to keep up with changes in the student's future profession. That is why Penn State Harrisburg's engineering technology classrooms and laboratories emphasis is placed on integrating modern technology with practical experimentation. The complexity of accomplishing various learning environments has become enormous. Therefore, integrating a multifunction lecture/laboratory/wireless computer room at Penn State has allowed this combination of learning into one environment. This multifunctional room comprises of wireless tablet portable computers which are hidden and secured in mobile work stations. Each wireless tablet portable computer houses various programs, instructional aids, document resources, and has access to the university network for lab and lecture use. The mobile tables, which tablet portable computers are housed in, are flexible and can be reconfigured to meet students' need for working in groups. This facility provides faculty and students the flexibility through lab and/or lecture use and interaction through multi-platform user interfaces. This paper will discuss the potential benefits and challenges encountered by students and faculty members at Penn State Harrisburg when using the tablet portable computers in the multifunctional classroom. This paper will also discuss some applications and functions that improve teaching, learning, and research initiatives through using tablet portable computers in a classroom environment for both laboratory and lecture use.