Education for Handled Technology What Is Handheld Technology?

Handheld technology refers to highly portable devices that are small enough to be operated in one’s hand or hands. These devices are often referred to as mobile devices or handheld computers and typically include smartphones and tablets. Handheld technology includes devices with display screens and input/output interfaces, capable of running programs, browsing the internet, capturing and manipulating data, and providing multi-functional support through integrated operating systems.

Implementation of Handheld Technology in Nursing Education

Handheld technology has evolved significantly since the introduction of the Psion I in 1994, which was the world’s first handheld computer. This early device, while limited in functionality, set the stage for future developments like the Palm Pilot™ in 1996, which utilized a stylus and specialized handwriting software. The Palm Pilot™ revolutionized handheld technology by providing an open-source platform for third-party software and accessories, leading to its rapid adoption and development.

Over time, handheld devices have become more powerful and multifunctional, establishing themselves as essential tools in contemporary society. In healthcare, these devices offer numerous advantages:

1. Complete Office Functionalities: They provide mobile access to office tools and resources, freeing individuals from their desks.
2. Convenience and Accessibility: They offer greater connection and access to information.
3. Enhanced Communication: Instant messaging, email, and other communication capabilities are immediately available.
4. Global Positioning and Remote Sensing: They support geolocation and remote data collection, among other functions.

For healthcare providers, handheld technology enables swift storage, organization, and retrieval of information at the point of care. They have become indispensable tools that support professional practice, similar in importance to a stethoscope. These devices allow healthcare providers to access clinical reference books, input and manage clinical databases, and use web-based clinical resources, thereby making information more accessible in any care setting, including bedside care (Doran et al., 2007; Mickan, Tilson, Atherton, Roberts, & Heneghan, 2013; Ruland, 2002).

Handheld technology helps healthcare professionals improve accuracy, save time, streamline workflow, enhance patient safety, and support evidence-based decision-making (Hardwick, Pulido, & Adelson, 2007).

Contribution of Handheld Technology

Handheld technology has significantly contributed to nursing education by expanding the scope and functionality of learning activities and creating unique educational opportunities (Slotta & Aleahmad, 2002). It allows for an integrative approach to teaching nursing that extends beyond the classroom and supports learning in various environments (Suplee, Cornelius, & Gallagher Gordon, 2009).

• Constructive Learning Approach: Handheld technology supports the constructive learning approach, where previously acquired knowledge forms the basis for new learning. It facilitates “on-the-go” learning and supports social interaction and collaborative learning.
• Situated Learning Approach: The technology supports authentic tasks and activities that allow students to create knowledge based on real-life problem-solving scenarios (Young, 2002).

As a learning tool, handheld technology enriches nursing education, promotes lifelong learning, and has far-reaching impacts on patient care (Cornelius et al., 2009; Koeniger Donohue, 2008; Krauskopf & Farrell, 2011). Accrediting agencies, such as the National League of Nursing (NLN), American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), and the National Organization for Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF), have identified skills in technology, information management, and information literacy as essential competencies for nurses at all levels.

Recommendations for Handheld Technology

Strategies to effectively incorporate handheld technology into nursing education include:

1. Identifying Desired Resources and Tools: Select resources and tools that align with learning objectives.
2. Designing Structured Learning Activities: Develop activities that are relevant and linked to the specific content being taught.
3. Creating Realistic Point-of-Care Information Access:
   • Use basic information-seeking exercises, like pharmacology challenges.
   • Develop complex case studies requiring the integration of multiple information resources.
   • Utilize simulations to create a realistic experience with simulation manikins.

Faculty can leverage handheld technology to capitalize on “teachable moments” in both classroom and clinical settings, promoting lifelong learning. It is essential for nursing programs to provide students with the skills and competencies necessary to function effectively in a technology-driven healthcare environment.

Conclusion

The integration of handheld technology in nursing education offers numerous benefits, including improved access to information, enhanced learning opportunities, and better preparation for real-world clinical practice. Nursing programs should prioritize developing proficiency in technology use to ensure students are prepared to thrive in a high-tech healthcare environment. As innovation in healthcare accelerates, both faculty and students must remain open and adaptable to technological advances, ultimately improving practice and patient outcomes (Suplee et al., 2009).