Introducing 4G mobile networks: implications for UK higher education

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the opportunities the rollout of 4G services across the UK will offer to the higher education (HE) sector. Potential benefits are considered within existing literature to include factors such as an ability to study in an any-time, any place manner, improved access to education, particularly in remote and rural areas and the transformation of teaching and learning. Design/methodology/approach – This research utilises a case study approach, analysing the views of teaching staff who have taken part in a trial of 4G as part of a funded project from JANET, part of a UK government funded company (JISC) whose primary aim is to provide and develop network infrastructure to meet the needs of education and research communities. Findings – Findings demonstrate that benefits of using 4G mobile technologies relate to key areas such as the general effectiveness of 4G services, any-time, any place access, transformation of teaching and learning and personal and organisational effectiveness. Research limitations/implications – Overall this paper concludes that staff can envisage significant benefits to the HE sector of the adoption of 4G technologies within the UK although these will be limited until the network is fully evolved. Originality/value – The research provides a unique opportunity to explore the potential of 4G at the commencement of the rollout across the UK providing an opportunity to explore the value of 4G for HE before contracts are agreed or purchase of hardware has been undertaken.