EduPaL: enabling blended learning in resource constrained environments

摘要

EduPaL, a portable learning platform, is useful when the Internet connection is intermittent and cost constraints are important. The platform is based on a low-cost universal serial bus (USB) flash drive used individually by each student. Students must also have access to a computer with at least intermittent Internet access. Content, such as videos, is downloaded onto the flash drive when possible and accessed at the student's convenience. Software on the flash drive monitors student usage, such as how much of a video was actually watched. The usage data is transmitted back to the teacher's module, which includes fairly elaborate data presentation tools. The data presentation tools allow the teacher to visualize which videos posed problems to students and also student preparation for a particular class.