Tablet PCs: A physical educator's new clipboard

• Published in: Strategies Vol. 23; no. 4; pp. 21 - 23
• Main Author: Nye, Susan B.
• Format: Journal Article Book Review
• Language: English
• Published: Reston Taylor & Francis Group 01.03.2010; American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: Classroom Techniques; Computer Uses in Education; Computers; Educational Environment; Educational Resources; Educational Strategies; Educational Technology; Handheld Devices; Instructional Materials; Laptop Computers; Learning; Physical Education; Physical Education Teachers; Software; Teaching Methods; Technology Integration
• ISSN: 0892-4562; 2168-3778
• DOI: 10.1080/08924562.2010.10590881

Computers in education have come a long way from the abacus of 5,000 years ago to the desktop and laptop computers of today. Computers have transformed the educational environment, and with each new iteration of smaller and more powerful machines come additional advantages for teaching practices. The Tablet PC is one. Tablet PCs are fully functional mobile PCs that use a pen-based input device instead of a keyboard or mouse. The pen or stylus produces handwritten notes, which are routinely prepared with pen and paper, to be created, edited, and organized in a digital format. A Tablet PC is compatible with existing PC software for word processing, graphics, video, or audio programs, and information can easily be viewed with a wireless connection. This article provides an overview on how Tablet PCs can be integrated within physical education instruction. In addition, features, accessories, and challenges associated with using a Tablet PC are described.