How has handheld technology multiplied the ways in which you connect within your institution?
Coordinator of networks and security Damian Doyle examines how many devices are connected inside UMBC’s library’s main study room. There are 120 people in the room with more than 300 active connections. 70% of downloaded content is video. Many students use YouTube to listen to background music. It’s no question that students are using handheld devices now more than ever. It isn’t just students. Professors often have two or more mobile devices on hand at work.
Faculty and students are becoming increasingly aware of the indispensability of connected devices. From higher education marketing to prospective students on handheld devices to reaching out to non-traditional learners seeking highly accessible online education, and from using tablets that enhance classroom participation to requiring RFID-enhanced student IDs to monitor attendance, everyone is becoming increasingly connected by phones, tablets and PCs.
If you meet people where they are you can leverage their use of mobile devices to inspire them. Not only do connected devices provide personal convenience among faculty and students, it has been proven to help educators improve learning outcomes. Global leader in youth research and insights TRU finds that one in four students use smartphones for homework, yet 66% of students aren’t allowed to use tablets in class and 88% of students must turn off smartphones.
Connected devices are changing the way we live. As of June 2014, more than 76 billion apps have been downloaded to enhance our daily lives. Nearly 500 million mobile users subscribe to mobile video services to take closer looks at our connected world. By 2020, it is predicted that the primary Internet connection around the world will be via mobile phones. Imagine incorporating these connected devices in your higher education marketing strategy, your extended learning environments, and your ability to stay connected with students and alumni.
As we strive to access data and engage each other without delay or disruption, designing and developing web assets with connected devices in mind may help you stay ahead of the curve.
Imagine using connected devices to ensure higher education institution success in new ways, such as implementing mobile-based programs, developing mobile applications that facilitates department-wide interaction, or creating social network-enhanced communities that connect special populations, such as veteran students, athletic teams or medical school candidates.
Discuss how connected devices has already changed your institution. Let’s team up to explore new ways to reach out to faculty and students on the devices they use to reach out to you.
