● Interim Findings and Feedback

This paper describes a small-scale project at the University of Wolverhampton that used handheld computers- Personal Digital Assistants ( ‘PDAs’) to develop and support the personal information skills of a cohort of HND Computing students. The PDAs were generously lent by Sony UK and were used to help students with time-tabling, rooming and contacting tutors, as well as providing easy access to course notes and presentations. The project team have file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/LTSN/Des...-%20A%20MEANS%20OF%20SUPPORTING%20STUDENTS.htm (1 of 8)04/05/2005 17:25:46 PERSONAL DIGITAL ASSISTANTS- A MEANS OF SUPPORTING STUDENTS established the appropriate technical configuration for using PDAs in groups without jeopardising personal data and the students are providing a variety of insights into both the pros and cons of using PDAs. One hurdle has been establishing the necessary ‘buy-in ’ from students for a short-term project but in general feedback so far is positive. 1. GENERAL BACKGROUND TO THE PROJECT – RETENTION AND SUPPORT As participation in higher education increases, larger numbers of people from non-traditional backgrounds are entering universities. These students are expected to need more support i