Using Smartphones to Improve Student Maths Abilities

Qualcomm has given 100 smartphones to students in four high schools in three school districts across the state of North Carolina in an experiment to see if they can improve maths proficiency. The project will run through June 2008 and be followed up with an extensive research study examining the viability of utilizing Smartphones to increase student achievement in mathematics. Safeguards will be in place to assure that students are able to communicate only with authorized users and that they observe acceptable use policies for the Smartphones.

"We cannot expect students to prepare for life in the 21st century unless we provide them with the tools, skills and knowledge they need," said State Superintendent Atkinson. "Qualcomm's sponsorship of Project K-Nect brings new opportunities to students in our state and harnesses a common, state-of-the-art communications tool - Smartphones - to capture students' interest and to give them extra opportunities for learning mathematics. I am excited by the partnerships that have made this project possible, and I look forward to applying what we learn in other schools and districts."

The project aims to increase math achievement as measured by proficiency in state testing and improved classroom performance by improving the academic involvement of harder-to-engage students who have struggled with math. It also seeks to reduce the current digital divide by providing supplemental learning through mobile Smartphones with high-speed wireless connectivity to students who to otherwise might not have access to a computer at home.

"The project represents a new and emerging trend towards the utilization of smaller portable devices to assist students in achieving their core academic goals," said Shawn Gross of Digital Millennial Consulting and Project K-Nect director. "We are excited about the launch of Project K-Nect and its effects on the engagement of students in math. The strong, positive support from teachers gives them a new look toward futures in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers."

Posted to the site on 4th February 2008