Smartphones and Other Mobile Devices: The Swiss Army Knives of the 21st Century

MIAD stands for "mobile Internet access device." MIADs are the Swiss Army knives of the 21st century; they help users perform specific tasks in specific situations (including academic tasks in academic situations), thereby making users smarter and more productive. There are, however, significant obstacles to their effective use in higher education. IT divisions have an important role to play in removing these obstacles and helping faculty, staff, and students use MIADs to full advantage. This article analyzes the characteristics of these devices and the ways in which people use them. (Contains 1 endnote.)