Engineering innovative Mobile Computing curriculum

Abstract

The emergence of a new generation of highly-capable mobile devices and platforms such as the Google Android and Apple iPhone have opened up multiple new opportunities for computing, computer networks and software systems developers. Mobile Computing (MC) provides users with the ability to work in mobile computer environments using mobile software systems and/or mobile applications, mobile hardware (laptops, netbooks, tablet PCs, iPads" smartphones, etc.), mobile infrastructure and mobile/wireless networks, and mobile communications. The performed analysis of the current status of Mobile Computing-related industry clearly shows that it will soon need a significant number of well educated and highly skilled specialists in this area - researchers, engineers, designers, analysts, developers and programmers. The findings and outcomes of performed analysis motivated the authors to work collaboratively, propose and engineer innovative academic programs and courseware in Mobile Computing. This paper presents the main findings and outcomes of analysis, design and development phases of innovative Mobile Computing curriculum engineering at Bradley University (Peoria, IL, U.S.A.).