Educational applications of touchpad technology in higher education in Hong Kong: Explorative case studies of University teachers' adoption of iPads

Abstract

‘Post-PC’ TouchPad technology has been increasingly popularised in recent years. At the same time, the demands for such technology to be used in institutions of higher education are rising. In the context of Hong Kong, growing penetration of iPads and iPad-like TouchPads means that Hong Kong universities are likely to experience a growth in the number of not only students but also teachers adopting this technology. However, without a proper understanding and preparation for effective curriculum integration of this technology and its effect on students and teachers, there is a danger that we might miss a ‘golden opportunity’ to maximise the educational advantages that TouchPad technology might afford. To this end, this paper reports the findings of an ongoing qualitative study with multiple cases. We attempt to investigate how higher education teachers use iPads (Apple's popular TouchPad devices) to facilitate their teaching practice, and how their perceptions change through the process. This ongoing study is being conducted for 18-months with ten participants from different faculties at the University of Hong Kong. Data is being collected through interviews with the teachers, direct observations and focus group meetings during workshops, and reflective posts though a mobile-based Social Networking application (App). With narrative and cross-case analysis, the study outcomes will contribute to understanding areas of teacher's private theories that impact the integration of TouchPad technology in their teaching practice. Recommendations for adoption and applications of TouchPad technology to support teaching in higher education will also be provided.