Projects - Palm Network Research

Since July, 2001, the PDA Utilization Group has been investigating the notion of a Palm Network, through the use of Palm Ethernet Cradles and HotSync Server Software. The group hopes to expand the role of PDA's from being standalone devices to fully-connected, network-aware handheld computers.

Knowing and Learning Research - Some of our most successful work has been done over the course of several semesters with Dr. Tony Petrosino's undegraduate course in Knowing and Learning. This work primarily involves the use of PDA-based networks to disseminate class content. Our research has progressed over Spring 2002, Fall 2002 and Spring 2003.

Connections: The Last Hardware Hurdle - This brief article describes the key issues in PDA Utilization in classrooms, and why Palm Networks may be the key solution in unlocking the capabilties of these devices in education.

The Model PDA Classroom - This piece describes a fictional classroom where Palm technology has wholly transformed the learning experience. Many of the ideas presented in this narrative motivate research topics for the PDA Utilization Group.

Case Study: Kealing Junior High - Our field research for Palm Networks takes place with the assistance of Michelle Garza at Kealing Junior High. Our current endeavors include efforts to distribute applications, collect assigments, and provide email access through exclusively Palm devices and the Palm Ethernet network.