Implementing Handheld Computing Technology in Physical Education

Small computers could be the next technology to enhance the teaching and learning process. These small devices-known as personal digital assistants (PDAs), palm computers, or handheld computersare mobile organizers that allow the user to gather information in the field and conduct onsite assessment, download that information into a computer, and subsequently run a variety of reports. Personal digital assistants are changing the way individuals access and work with information. Many people view them as mere electronic organizers for maintaining personal appointments and contacts, but their uses go beyond such purposes. With the right software, PDAs enable teachers to keep attendance and grades, track students' performance and progress, and measure students' fitness levels. The fact that these devices have the ability to retrieve, organize, track, and disseminate information makes them an excellent tool. Implementing PDA technology, however, requires teachers to make challenging decisions regarding the evaluation and selection ofthe hardware and software. This article gives an overview of E £l PDAs and outlines how teachers can .E use them in their classes. < o i:' MobUe Technology ~ in Teaching u o Using a portable computer with Inter~ l>. net access and a digital projector in