Module Guide

Written by: Jonathan Briggs

February 12, 2006 [4875 views]

Goals of the Module

• To provide students with an overview of the applications, opportunities and impacts of mobile information systems.
• To explore the current and emerging technologies that create platforms for mobile content, services and applications including GSM, WiFi and Bluetooth
• To examine the business models emerging in the mobile marketplace.

By the end of the module each student should be able to

• Describe the characteristics, benefits and drawbacks of a range of competing mobile technologies
• Select appropriate mobile technologies and providers for a range of application areas
• Describe current and emerging applications in education, entertainment, retail and other areas
• Make recommendations to commercial, government and other organisations as to their use of mobile technologies and the likely impacts on their businesses
• Outline the design of a mobile application including hardware and software components, architecture and required network of partner relationships

Teaching approach

The module will be run as a series of lectures with accompanying online activities and discussions. Online surveys will be used during the module to test understanding and provide feedback.

Indicative lectures

The lecture slot is shared with Mobile Technology and students may attend all lectures. Specific Mobile Business lectures will be clearly advertised. Mobile Business activities will run even during weeks when there are no specific lectures.

1. Mobile and technologies
2. Location based services
3. Design of Mobile Services
4. Presence
5. Communication
6. Business Models

Assessment

Please read this very carefully.

The module will be assessed by examination only (single 2 hour exam). The exam will consist of 20 Multiple Choice Questions (40%) and short answer questions based on a report that you will prepare for the exam (50%). The remaining 10% will be for participation in the online activities.

You will NOT be expected to memorise or to copy large sections of your report onto the exam paper but re-present key ideas in answer to specific questions.

You will work in a small group to complete the activity (Groups must not be larger than 3 people). If you choose to work alone then you should still complete all the deliverables as outlined below.

The task this year will be to research mobile applications within a specific domain such as Health, Education, Retail or Entertainment and write a proposal covering the technical, business and creative opportunities for an established business or organization within this area. You will not be expected to implement your ideas.

Full details of the assignment will be posted separately.

Please note that Mobile Technology has a different assignment.

Examination dates

The date will be advised by the examination office.

Indicative reading

The focus of this module is on the emerging mobile marketplace. You should try and keep up to date with what is happening through newspapers and online news sources.

You should also try and read some of the books on the booklist for mobile business.

Online support

This course will make extensive use of online resources for

• copies of lecture notes
• allowing you to comment
• providing progress/feeback surveys
• asking questions
• new books and links
• notification of changes of schedule

Please make sure that you check www.jonathanbriggs.com regularly

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