Learning takes place in different places and in different forms - in lectures, at the learner’s own desk, in cafés, in a group, or alone. The aim of the "Mobile Learners in dSpace" project is the seamless integration of mobile learners, thus enabling long-term improvement and intensification of the interaction and communication between learners. Prototypes of new network technologies (mobility, group communication) and distributed applications for synchronous teamwork are being developed.

Seamless support for distributed learning teams forms the main goal of the project; the quality and topicality of the interaction and communication within the team can thus be improved. Great emphasis is placed on mobile learner support. This includes support for mobile Internet-based communication, group communication, and for both wired and wireless (e.g. UMTS) access. The required learning environment can be accessed using a PC, notebook, or handheld-computer (e.g. PDA).

The interactivity between the different partners is the main problem in synchronous distributed teaching and learning scenarios. The "Lehrstuhl Praktische Informatik IV" at the University of Mannheim will use modern mobile devices, such as notebook PCs or PDAs with WaveLAN cards, to overcome this problem. Interaction services will be identified and integrated into existing systems. These services include, for instance, hand raising, voting, online feedback, instant messaging, and chat.

The main goal is to increase interactivity, awareness and feedback in the distributed classroom. Design, implementation and experimentation focuses on communication technology issues (e.g., application protocols establishing efficient communication between handheld devices and the distance learning system), and on interaction interfaces and visualization paradigms.

For further information about the project "Mobile Learner in dSpace" at the University of Mannheim, please contact Stephan Kopf.