Tablet PC
Key CIT Resources
Overview
What is it?
Tablet PCs are a type of laptop computer with a screen you can write on using a special pen. They can be used as a blackboard, a whiteboard, an overhead projector and a computer. Tablet PCs are made by several different manufacturers; you can see an extensive list on Microsoft's tablet PC hardware showcase.
Key features
- write directly on the screen (with a special "tablet" pen) to take notes or to add annotations to existing files
- fold the screen down for a flat writing surface
Who uses it?
A tablet PC is useful in any course where the instructor would like to write during the class while facing the students. Instructors have used a tablet PC to replace writing on the blackboard, on an overhead or on a slide presentation. Tablet PCs are especially popular with instructors who need to sketch, like in engineering or chemistry.
How does it work?
A tablet PC is just like a laptop computer. It is portable, and runs Windows programs, with the additional benefit that the screen accepts input by a pen in addition to a mouse. The pen can function as a mouse or as a pen, and any writing can be saved.
Things to consider before using a Tablet PC
- Using the pen requires some practice.
- As with all computers, software must be purchased for use on the computer.
- Special third-party software such as Ubiquitous Presenter or Classroom Presenter must be installed on the tablet PC to take advantage of some of the feedback features.
Uses as an Instructional Technology
Stay engaged with students during class
- The instructor can use the tablet PC as a blackboard (or whiteboard) to write and sketch during class. A tablet PC will allow you to use different colors, to face your students while writing and talking, and to save all of your notes.
Create a record of your notes during class
- Using your prepared PowerPoint slides, you can label diagrams, take notes and highlight important points while facing the class. Your annotations can be saved on the computer for reference after class.
- Using Windows Journal or Microsoft Word or PowerPoint, you can save your notes as files on your computer. The files can be shared with the class via your Blackboard course site.
- By referencing the files and notes you create with the tablet PC, you can easily see where you left off in the previous class, and keep records of where additional explanation is needed.
Provide direct feedback on student electronic documents
- Using a tablet PC and Microsoft Word, you can write notes directly on student essays as though you were editing on paper. The notes are saved electronically to be returned to the student while maintaining a record of your comments.
Incorporate active learning with immediate feedback in your class
- Experienced users can collect student responses during class to assess understanding and respond to common misconceptions using Ubiquitous Presenter or Classroom Presenter.
Resources at Duke
- The Duke Digital Initiative sponsors a pilot program to allow faculty to experiment with the use of a Tablet PC in the undergraduate classroom for a semester.
- The Center for Instructional Technology can provide consulting for faculty who wish to learn more about classroom uses of Tablet PCs.
