University of Leicester

Duckling Project

This is a case study of integrating Sony PRS-505 e-book readers into a MA distance learning programme in Applied Linguistics and TESOL at the School of Education, the University of Leicester, UK. The aim of the trial was to increase the flexibility of the curriculum to support mobile learners. E-book readers, pre-loaded with module materials, a textbook and podcasts were given to 17 Education students. We found that the devices increased the flexibility of the curriculum and support the mobility of students, helped students to save resources and costs in printing, enabled them to conduct more reading of course materials during the day and encouraged changes in study strategies.