A little less conversation, a little more texting please - a blended learning model of using mobiles in the classroom

This paper reports on three case studies of use of the TxtTools Mobile phone texting system by lecturers in different subject disciplines: Business Studies, Computing and Sports Science. The lecturers were seeking to have a richer blend of technologies to support their students, and the mobile technology is combined within traditional student lectures and seminars as well as some interesting developmental uses outside the classroom. The findings show that there has been a very positive response from students, and that the system can be effective in a number of ways, including engaging more students within lectures. This blended learning approach has given a voice to a large number of students intimidated by a classroom or group environment, enabling them to ask questions, put forth an opinion and interact with fellow group members in a dynamically technological manner.