Tableau Économique: Teaching Economics with a Tablet Computer

Abstract

The typical method of instruction in economics is chalk and talk. Economics courses often require writing equations and drawing graphs and charts, which are all best done in freehand. Unlike static PowerPoint presentations, tablet computers create dynamic nonlinear presentations. Wireless technology allows professors to write on their tablets and project their notes to students while walking around their classrooms. Professors can save their handwritten notes with narration and distribute them electronically. This short article introduces economics professors to some ways in which they can use tablets to enhance their teaching.

Keywords:

• digital ink
• dynamic presentations
• online instruction
• screen-casting
• tablet computer

JEL Code:

• A20

Notes

1. Apple's iPad is often referred to as a tablet. However, it is different from the tablet computers discussed in this article. For example, an iPad user interacts with his computer with his fingers (rather than a pen), so he cannot draw in freehand as cleanly as with a pen-enabled tablet. In addition, the iPad runs the same operating system as the iPhone and iPod, so it has limited software availability and compatibility. But a tablet computer can run the same software as a desktop computer. For me, this is important because I use several specialized software programs when I teach. The Modbook, designed by Axiotron, is a slate-style pen-enabled tablet computer built on a MacBook chassis. Currently this is the only tablet computer available for Apple users.

2. The following Web site contains a short video that demonstrates several tablet software programs: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PIsBw9OObxQ.