Title: Noise detectives: design implications for mobile learning

Authors: Peta Wyeth; Ian MacColl

Addresses: Faculty of Science and Technology, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane QLD 4000, Australia ' Faculty of Science and Technology, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane QLD 4000, Australia

Abstract: In this paper, we present an account of children's interactions with a mobile technology prototype within the school context. The noise detectives trial was conducted in a school setting with the aim of better understanding the role of mobile resources as mediators within science and environmental learning activities. Over 80 children, aged between 10 and 12, completed an outdoor data-gathering activity, using a mobile learning prototype that included paper and software components. They measured and recorded noise levels in various locations throughout the school. We analysed the activity to determine how the components of the prototype were integrated into the learning activity, and to identify differences in behaviour that resulted from using these components. We present design implications that resulted from observed differences in prototype use and appropriation.

Keywords: mobile learning; m-learning; prototyping; educational technology; design; noise detectives; child behaviour; science education; environmental education; interaction; mobile resources; noise levels; noise measurement; school children.

DOI: 10.1504/IJART.2012.046273

International Journal of Arts and Technology, 2012 Vol.5 No.2/3/4, pp.177 - 198

Published online: 27 Nov 2014 *

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