Chapter 1 - Minicase 1

Dartmouth College Goes Wireless

1. In what ways is the Wi-Fi technology changing the life of Dartmouth students?

   Students are developing new applications for Wi-Fi, i.e., games and personal-security devices.

   Internet-enabled cell phones and PDAs are on the increase, as is the use of SMS and wireless-based teaching methods.

2. Some say that the wireless system will become part of the background of everybody’s life — that the mobile devices are just an afterthought. Explain.

   Wireless networks and their devices will become as common-place as cell phones and iPODS.

   Some will complain about the intrusion of wireless systems into their lives with the resulting loss of privacy.

3. Is the wireless system contributing to improved learning, or just adding entertainment that may reduce the time available for studying? Debate your point of view with students who hold a different opinion.

   The ubiquitous access to content, that wireless can provide, can improve learning.

   Wireless can contribute to improved learning if the appropriate content is developed.

   Sophisticated wireless games can provide learning opportunities under the guise of play.

4. What are the major benefits of the wireless system over the previous wireline one? Do you think wireline systems will disappear from campuses one day? (Do some research on the topic.)

   Wireless systems gives the students the flexibility to access information and e-mail from anywhere at any time. This ability moves students out of the dorm rooms and libraries and allows them to access the entire campus.

   Added mobility leads to greater interaction that enhances learning.

   Wired network are likely to remain for a long time because they offer greater speed and higher availability.