Showing papers on "Laptop published in 2013"

Laptop multitasking hinders classroom learning for both users and nearby peers

Abstract: Laptops are commonplace in university classrooms. In light of cognitive psychology theory on costs associated with multitasking, we examined the effects of in-class laptop use on student learning in a simulated classroom. We found that participants who multitasked on a laptop during a lecture scored lower on a test compared to those who did not multitask, and participants who were in direct view of a multitasking peer scored lower on a test compared to those who were not. The results demonstrate that multitasking on a laptop poses a significant distraction to both users and fellow students and can be detrimental to comprehension of lecture content.

Rental/car-share vehicle access and management system and method

Abstract: A rental/car-share (RCS) vehicle access and management system and method, in some embodiments, utilizes barcodes, QR codes (or NFC/RFID), GPS, and a mobile app coupled with a wireless network to enable customers to bypass the reservation desk and pickup and drop off reserved RCS vehicles using a mobile phone, tablet or laptop The QR code, RFID, or NFC communication with the mobile application allows for identification of the vehicle by a mobile application, which, if authorized, can access the vehicle via a temporary access code issued by remote servers The remote servers and/or mobile application communicates with a control module that plugs into the on-board diagnostics module of the rental/car-share (RCS) vehicle and includes a host processing unit with a processor, an accelerometer, data storage, a GPS with internal GPS antenna; a wireless modem with internal antenna, and CAN bus transceivers connected with the processor, and a USB programmable interface

Smart home automation systems and methods

Abstract: A smart home interaction system is presented. It is built on a multi-modal, multithreaded conversational dialog engine. The system provides a natural language user interface for the control of household devices, appliances or household functionality. The smart home automation agent can receive input from users through sensing devices such as a smart phone, a tablet computer or a laptop computer. Users interact with the system from within the household or from remote locations. The smart home system can receive input from sensors or any other machines with which it is interfaced. The system employs interaction guide rules for processing reaction to both user and sensor input and driving the conversational interactions that result from such input. The system adaptively learns based on both user and sensor input and can learn the preferences and practices of its users.

Bluetooth Remote Home Automation System Using Android Application

Abstract: This paper presents the overall design of Home Automation System (HAS) with low cost and wireless remote control. This system is designed to assist and provide support in order to fulfill the needs of elderly and disabled in home. Also, the smart home concept in the system improves the standard living at home. The main control system implements wireless Bluetooth technology to provide remote access from PC/laptop or smart phone. The design remains the existing electrical switches and provides more safety control on the switches with low voltage activating method. The switches status is synchronized in all the control system whereby every user interface indicates the real time existing switches status. The system intended to control electrical appliances and devices in house with relatively low cost design, user-friendly interface and ease of installation.

Smart home system using android application

Abstract: This paper presents the overall design of Home Automation System (HAS) with low cost and wireless remote control. This system is designed to assist and provide support in order to fulfil the needs of elderly and disabled in home. Also, the smart home concept in the system improves the standard living at home. The main control system implements wireless Bluetooth technology to provide remote access from PC/laptop or smart phone. The design remains the existing electrical switches and provides more safety control on the switches with low voltage activating method. The switches status is synchronized in all the control system whereby every user interface indicates the real time existing switches status. The system intended to control electrical appliances and devices in house with relatively low cost design, user-friendly interface and ease of installation.

Ownership versus on-campus use of mobile IT devices by university students

Abstract: This study investigated ownership and on-campus use of laptops, tablets, and smartphones, using survey information on Dutch university students. We show that 96% of students own at least one of these mobile IT devices (i.e., a laptop, tablet, or smartphone). Using econometric modelling, we also show that student income, parental income, gender, immigrant parents, and household type (e.g., living with parents) have a statistically significant but small effect on mobile IT device ownership. The demand for tablets is relatively income inelastic, and the demand for laptops and smartphones extremely so. Therefore ownership rates are high for all student groups, including lower income students. However, students leave their laptops (and tablets) at home most of the time, mainly because they find it cumbersome to carry a laptop, and the vast majority of students hold the opinion that abolishing computer labs while facilitating laptop use is a bad idea, despite the didactical advantages this may have during lectures. Thus, it appears that the current high ownership rates of mobile IT devices by no means imply students' preference or support for university Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) strategies. We study ownership and on-campus use of mobile IT devices among Dutch university students.Ninety-six percent of students own either a laptop, a tablet or a smartphone.Ownership rates are high for all groups of students.The propensity of bringing laptops and tablets to the university is rather low.

One Laptop Per Child: Comments on Jeffrey James's Critique

Abstract: One Laptop Per Child OLPC is a non-profit organization that has introduced the one to one modality in the use of computers for education in many developing and poor countries. It is based in the idea of an “expanded school” where each child and teacher owns his or her own laptop connected to the Internet. Children spontaneously work in collaboration and teach each other in many different settings at school, at home and in public places. Teachers are not limited to work in a computer lab or computer class in restricted periods of time and are able to coach the development of neurocognitive skills of each cohort of students. The one to one modality reflects a vision of social equity that is beyond sharing arrangements.

Digital Writing and Diversity: The Effects of School Laptop Programs on Literacy Processes and Outcomes:

Abstract: Over the last decade, the number of one-to-one laptop programs in U.S. schools has steadily increased. Though technology advocates believe that such programs can assist student writing, there has been little systematic evidence for this claim, and even less focused on technology use by at-risk learners. This study examined the effect of daily access to laptops on the writing outcomes and processes of 2,158 upper elementary students in two school districts, and the effect among diverse students. In a California district, students showed improved English language arts achievement in both a partial laptop program year and a full laptop program year. In a Colorado district, overall writing test score gains were not statistically significant; however in both districts, at-risk student groups (i.e., Hispanics and low-income learners) showed significant gains. In addition, survey results, interviews, and observations indicate that at-risk learners used the laptops more frequently than their counterparts at school for a variety of learning purposes. This study suggests that well-planned use of laptops and digital media can help diverse learners improve their literacy processes and outcomes.

Comprehensive system and method of universal real-time linking of real objects to a machine, network, internet, or software service

Abstract: Methods of connecting or linking real objects to machines or the virtual world in real time utilizing a device are disclosed. In one embodiment, a wireless tag attached to an object in communication with an electronic device, such as a cellular phone, tablet computer, laptop computer, or watch, monitors and updates the position of a wireless tag locally and on a machine/network/cloud. Methods of using a wireless tag in safety, loss/theft prevention, healthcare, tracking, advertising and marketing, education, games, finance, payment, and athletic are disclosed. In another embodiment, methods of providing an application programming interface and/or a software development kit based on the devices are provided, allowing software developers the ability to create their own programs or applications on top of the disclosed system is disclosed. Methods of allowing developers to distribute and/or monetize applications developed through the application programming interface and/or a software development kit are also disclosed.

System and method for securely distributing legal evidence

Abstract: This invention provides a system and method to search for and securely download Digital MultiMedia Evidence (DME) data from a central DME repository to portable USB, smart phone, tablet, laptop, desktop, or other data storage devices, with a clear chain of custody and access control audit trail reporting, so the DME can be used to prepare for and conduct legal proceedings.

Learning anywhere, anytime: Student motivators for m-learning

Abstract: This paper documents the outcomes of a study that focused on identifying what motivates stu-dents to use mobile devices for learning and to engage in m-learning. An outcome of this study was to provide a better understanding of what educators should consider when adapting their course for mobile learners. The research included seven classes from three Australian universi-ties. The students in this study used laptops or tablet PCs, and in three of the classes, these were provided by the university as part of a laptop/tablet program. The findings indicated that mobility was the key motivator for the use of laptops, and the learning tasks that students found to be most motivating involved accessing information, authoring (e.g., writing, blogging, note taking) and communication.

The initial response of secondary mathematics teachers to a one-to-one laptop program

Abstract: Studies of one-to-one programs consistently report lower use of laptops in mathematics classrooms compared to other subjects but do not elaborate reasons for these observations. This mixed-method study investigated the experiences and beliefs of 28 mathematics teachers at five secondary schools during the second year of the New South Wales Digital Education Revolution laptop program. While some mathematics teachers planned for students to use their laptops up to once a week, most reported less frequent use in the classroom. Teachers were grouped into categories “Non Adopters,” “Cautious Adopters,” and “Early Adopters” according to reported classroom use of laptops, then analysed for differences in confidence, knowledge, and beliefs relating to technology for teaching and learning mathematics. A prevalent belief limiting laptop use is that students authentically learn mathematics only using pen and paper. Cautious Adopters and Non Adopters expressed beliefs that laptops exacerbate classroom management problems, especially for lower-achieving students. In the context of ability-streamed classes these beliefs effectively ruled out use of laptops for entire classrooms.

Multiple band portable spectrum analyzer

Abstract: A device for detecting RF power information, for use as a stand alone purpose built device, or connectable to an external computing instrument such as a laptop, PDA, or cell phone, or other similarly capable technology. The device scans two or more bands in the wireless frequency and provides output to the user with wireless information about multiple bands of information.

Systems and methods for collection-based multimedia data packaging and display

Abstract: Systems and methods for creating an all-in-one experience by combining media (photos, videos, etc.), content (text, external feeds) and meta-data (tagged friends, location) into one interactive canvas in an automatic manner. An application of the invention can run on any user device: mobile device, personal computer, tablet, laptop, game console, or television. The system can scan user data, filter unwanted content, package it into coherent multimedia collections and display them on any user device.

Pocket kits and methods for retrofitting and adapting common notebook computers, laptop computers, and tablet computers, to enable each to be used as an automated external defibrillator (AED), and as a manual defibrillator

Abstract: A notebook, laptop computer or tablet computer having an automated external defibrillator (AED) capability, and methods of utilizing the notebook, laptop computer or tablet computer defibrillator to treat victims of sudden cardiac arrest. Kits and methods for converting, adapting or retrofitting a common notebook, laptop computer and tablet computer to enable each to be used as an AED to treat victims of sudden cardiac arrest. A kit including an adjustable case for receiving, encompassing, adapting and converting a common notebook, laptop computer or tablet computer to enable each to be used as an AED. A kit including a slave automated external defibrillator (AED) that is joined to a common notebook, laptop computer or tablet computer to adapt, convert and enable each to be used as an AED.

Harnessing the power of social media

Abstract: Technological advances are affecting our day to day working environment in more ways than we can think or imagine. The original municipal policy addressing the use of computers in the work place and then expanding to address private e-mail usage and laptop computers has now had to expand to address social media platforms and i-pads.

Is the One Laptop Per Child Enough? Viewpoints from Classroom Teachers in Rwanda

Abstract: This study examines the implementation of the One Laptop Per Child (OLPC) program in Rwanda from the viewpoint of primary school teachers involved with the program. It seeks to understand how these teachers feel about the program, how they incorporate the low-cost laptops into their classrooms, and their impressions of the laptops’ impacts on their students. Results of the study reveal that the teachers like the initiative, but recognize many challenges in adapting the program to their realities. The teachers think of the initiative primarily as a computer literacy and rote learning project, and they report outcomes along these lines. Beyond learning computer skills, the teachers note that the program has had both positive and negative impacts on several students—some have become more empowered as learners, and some have become rude and disruptive in class. Most significantly, the teachers often view themselves, and not their students, as the primary users of the laptops, and they have found ways to employ the laptops for both personal and school-related work.

Novel electronic pen and intelligent terminal

Abstract: The invention relates to an electronic pen and an intelligent terminal, in particular to a novel electronic pen and a novel intelligent terminal. A gyroscope, an accelerometer and a wireless communication module are arranged in the novel electronic pen; when the electronic pen is used for writing or drawing, sensing data obtained by the gyroscope and the accelerometer in the pen can be transmitted to a tablet personal computer, an intelligent mobile phone, a computer, a laptop or other intelligent equipment by the wireless communication module; the equipment can read characters or graphs written by the novel electronic pen; the written characters or the drawn graphs are synchronously displayed on a display screen connected with the equipment. The novel intelligent terminal comprises a tablet personal computer, an intelligent mobile phone, a laptop, a desktop computer or other electronic equipment; the display screen of the novel intelligent terminal is provided with a gyroscope, an accelerometer and a magnetic resistance meter and is not provided with a keyboard or a touch screen; and the novel electronic pen is input equipment of the novel intelligent terminal.

LongPad: a touchpad using the entire area below the keyboard of a laptop computer

Abstract: In this paper, we explore the possibility of a long touchpad that utilizes the entire area below the keyboard of a laptop computer. An essential prerequisite for such a touchpad is a robust palm rejection method, which we satisfy using a proximity-sensing touchpad. We developed LongPad, a proximity-sensing optical touchpad that is as wide as a laptop keyboard, and implemented a palm rejection algorithm that utilizes proximity images from LongPad. In a user study conducted, we observed that LongPad rejected palm touches almost perfectly while participants were repeating typing and pointing tasks. We also summarize the new design space enabled by LongPad and demonstrate a few of the interaction techniques it facilitates.

Smart pre-load for video-on-demand in an HTTP adaptive streaming environment

Abstract: A system (e.g., video delivery system, a video-on-demand system, a back office system) and a method are described herein for delivering a selected digital content (e.g., movie, musical composition, application, file) via a network connection to an end-user device (e.g., set-top-box, mobile phone/smart phone, computer, laptop computer, tablet, internet-connected television, gateway device, digital video recorder). In addition, an end-user-device and a method are described herein for receiving the digital content over the connection from the video delivery system.

Effect of Agent Embodiment on the Elder User Enjoyment of a Game

Abstract: This paper presents a study that compared the elder user enjoyment of a game of trivia in three conditions: participants playing the game with a laptop PC vs. a robot vs. a virtual agent. Statistical analysis did not show any significant difference of the three devices on user enjoyment while qualitative analysis revealed a preference for the laptop PC condition, followed by the robot and the virtual agent. The elderly participants were concentrated on the task performance rather on the interaction with systems. They preferred laptop PC condition mainly because there were less interfaces distracting them from performing the task proposed by the game. Further, the robot was preferred to a virtual agent because of its physical presence. Some issues of the experiment design are raised and directions for future research are suggested to gain more insight into the effects of agent embodiment on human-agent interaction.

The contours of on-demand viewing

Abstract: The media marketplace has witnessed an increase in the amount and types of viewing devices available to consumers. From the traditional television set to pocket-size mobile devices to laptop computers, people now have a surfeit of choices available for entertainment purposes. Many of these devices perform multiple functions, are portable, and afford tremendous personalization opportunities. Technology, distribution, reception, and content developments all infl uence the new connected viewing/using habits; Internet-enabled digital devices in particular engender alternative temporal and spatial engagement opportunities.

Current practice of laptop computer and related health problems: a survey based on ergonomics

Abstract: Background: In recent years, laptop computers were popular among college students for the purpose of education as well as recreation. Aims & Objective: The present study was designed to evaluate the current practice of Laptop computer and computer related health problems among college students, based on ergonomics. Material and Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted over a three month timeframe, from April to June, 2013 in tertiary care hospital and teaching medical college. We included 100 students with age group 22-28 years, using laptop computer. Pre-designed and content validated, self-reporting questionnaire was used for data collection. Student’s refusal for participation and incomplete questionnaire were excluded in the study. Results: Current practice of laptop’s usage was ergonomically improper. Prolonged usage in improper posture has created various musculoskeletal problems among medical students. Conclusion: Current practice of laptop’s usage exposes students to prolonged poor postures which leads to various musculoskeletal problems. There is a need to increase the awareness of ergonomics to improve the current practice of laptop’s usage and to minimize health problems among students.

Location-based selection of wireless peripheral devices

Abstract: Based upon the present location and historical usage at that location, the technologies disclosed herein select a wireless peripheral device (e.g., a printer, monitor, keyboard) for wireless connection with a portable device (e.g., a laptop computer or tablet). This Abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.

Methods for Measurement of Energy Consumption in Mobile Devices

Abstract: Mobile devices have become an integral part of our life and provide dozens of useful services to their users. However, usability of mobile devices is hindered by battery lifetime. Energy conservation can extend battery lifetime, however, any energy management policy requires accurate prediction of energy consumption, which is impossible without reliable energy measurement and estimation methods and tools. We present an analysis of the energy measurement methodologies and describe the implementations of the internal (profiling) software (proprietary, custom) and external software-based (Java API, Sensor API, GSM AT) energy measurement methodologies. The methods are applied to measure energy consumption on a variety of mobile devices (laptop PC, PDA, smart phone). A case study of measuring energy consumption on a mobile computer using 3DMark06 benchmarking software is presented.

Towards a Multi-screen Application Model for the Web

Abstract: The ever-growing ubiquity and power of mobile devices and the trend of televisions becoming more than just dumb displays for moving images are two sides of the same coin. Both types of devices have outgrown their original purpose and are now used for tasks that previously required a PC or laptop. At the same time, users often own and use multiple devices in parallel, e.g. when watching TV or while working. Traditional application models are however focused on single devices and screens, although Apps for the "second screen" have been getting a lot of interest recently. In this paper we propose a new approach for designing and developing multi-screen applications using standard web technologies and outline how to enable traditional web applications to become multi-screen-ready.

Wireless Power Transfer for Cell Phones or Other Mobile Communication Devices and Biological Implications [TCC Tidbits]

Abstract: Wireless access to telephony or to the Internet via a smartphone or laptop computer is such a common, everyday experience, it is hard for some people to imagine that connection to a pair of wires was the only way to make a telephone call in the not-too-distant past. Of course, routine wireless access also requires the nightly ritual of plugging the smartphone or laptop via a power cable into an electrical outlet for it to be recharged or, more precisely, for the battery inside the mobile device to be recharged.

Situational awareness personal service

Abstract: A situational awareness personal service (SAPS) receives data records from a wide variety of data sources and provides real-time, tailored, situational awareness (SA) information to subscribers. The SA information, which can include course of action recommendations and threat assessments, can be made available and affordable to the general public. Subscribers may view the SA information using commercial off the shelf (COTS) devices, such as laptop computers, smartphones, and existing onboard integrated displays. In one aspect, transportation platforms can provide local observation data, such as radar tracking data, to the SA personal service in exchange for tailored SA information.