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MobileU This is the newest project underway in R&D, as we develop a broad range of applications
for Windows Mobile devices, designed to meet the needs of our increasingly mobile student population. MobileU combines links to study aids with links to student life applications in one device (which we call MobiDeac) that's both a wifi-enabled PocketPC and a cell phone. Want to check on the availablilty of washers and dryers in your residence hall's laundry room? Mobi can do that. Want to make sure your Mobi doesn't ring during class? Download your class schedule to your Mobi through Mobile WIN and you're all set. Get a directory for the building you're in--Mobi uses its location awareness to show you exactly the right information automatically. Search the library catalog real-time while you're in the stacks, and more! Learn about MobileU and watch video demos here!
Faculty Support The R&D staff supports many projects for academic departments or individual faculty members through providing equipment, programming services, general technical support, or a combination of the three. Current and recent projects include the following:
- Roomba! Computer Science students modified a Roomba vacuum cleaner, equipping it with Bluetooth capability and controlling it through a laptop computer. Watch the video
- Data collection in Europe Since 2003, R&D has provided mobile devices and training in their use for the Eurotour classes. We developed the DataInHand™ software for this class in order to enable them to collect data digitally rather than on paper. We provide a software load on the mobile devices that includes language dictionaries, transportation schedules for trains and busses in most European countries, wifi capabilities, a companion keyboard for composing required essays, and other travel necessities. Beginning in 2006, students are using Windows Mobile (PocketPC Phone) devices for Eurotour, giving them additional communication capabilities.
- Teacher Education Our pre-service teachers are also using PocketPCs equipped with our DataInHand™ software for their work in K12 classrooms in the area.
- Re/Imaging Berlin We are working on a software development and technical research project to support this
Art Department project. We are identifying GPS units that can be used with our Mobi devices to capture and record the coordinates of locations where photos are taken.
- Technology Roadshows We organized presentations for all academic departments in the spring of 2006 to display some new hardware and software available to faculty members. We awarded seven technology grants to faculty members for TabletPCs and/or Windows Mobile devices as a result of these events, and provided training and assistance for the grant recipients.
 PocketPCs
in Education
Using technology to enhance the Wake Forest academic experience is central to the mission of Research and Development. Using input from students and faculty, the office has custom-designed software for the PocketPC that is used in animal-behavior research, data collection, and classroom instruction.
Mobile Applications Handheld versions of the University’s intranet and Information Sytems Web site cater to the mobile computer user with features handy for transit on the University's wireless network. Access to internal University directories, Help Desk hours, and class schedules, among other services, are available in these mobile versions. |