Design, Development and Assessment of Mobile Applications : The Case for Problem-Based Learning

This paper describes efforts to develop a pedagogical environment that seeks to influence the learning experiences of students as mobile applications end users, developers, and decision makers. Specifically, via a collaborative effort involving industry sponsors, university technology services, and multiple academic units engaged in information technology education, a graduate-level course called Mobile Applications Development (MAD) was created. The core innovativeness of MAD lies in its delivery structure as a problem-based learning course "centered on emerging technologies like mobile technology" that brings together students with diverse backgrounds from different academic units across the campus. MAD culminates in an industry-sponsored competition, where student teams present their mobile solution to a panel of expert judges from industry and higher education. Via MAD and the associated competitions, students, faculty, and institutional partners can explore the opportunities and challenges associated with mobile technologies. This paper discusses how problem-based learning principles guided the design and implementation of MAD. A multiperspective assessment of the success of MAD is offered. Finally, key lessons learned and guidance to assist other educators are also offered