Edited by Dr. David J. Ayersman, Mary Washington College, and Dr. W. Michael Reed, New York University Incoming editor: Dr. Lynne Schrum, University of Georgia
formerly Journal of Research on Computing in Education

Volume 34 Number 4 Summer 2002

Perceptions of a Wireless Network
Virgil E. Varvel, Jr. and Catherine Thurston
University of Illinois

Abstract
Recently, the power and affordability of portable computers and wireless networking have begun a trend toward the development of computer labs at many universities based on this technology. This article outlines the perceptions of students and instructors toward portable computing coupled to wireless networking in an educational setting. Both students and instructors responded positively to this computer environment and provided evidence that many learning outcomes can be enhanced by the presence of such an environment.

Contributors
Virgil Varvel is a computer-assisted instruction specialist with the Illinois Online Network involved in advancing the use of Internet-based instruction. He has an MS in biomolecular chemistry and an MEd in science instruction. Currently, he is also a doctoral student in curriculum and instruction at the University of Illinois, researching online education. Dr. Catherine Thurston is the director of the Office of Educational Technology at the University of Illinois involved in supporting faculty use of technology within the College of Education at the University of Illinois.

Download the full-article (PDF, 172 KB, PDF Instructions)

Contact
Virgil E. Varvel, Jr.
Illinois Online Network
University of Illinois
510 Devonshire
Champaign, IL 61824
vvarvel@uillinois.edu

Copyright © 2002, ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education). All rights reserved.