Integrating BlackBerry wireless devices into computer programming and literacy courses

In this paper we describe our experience in integrating the RIM's BlackBerry handheld wireless device into programming and literacy courses at the University of Guelph and the University of Guelph-Humber. The courses are lab-intensive where students experiment with the devices, and develop and deploy applications for them. We believe that teaching computer programming in the context of simple wireless mobile applications provides a motivating framework for students and inspires them to work hard due to the practical experience they get that allows them to program their own cellular phones. In addition, many of our students who spend their co-operative work terms or internships at RIM value this experience very much as it offers them an advantage over students from other institutions. More importantly, students learn about the programming models for developing applications for wireless devices and appreciate the unique opportunities such devices offer, but also become aware of the development challenges they present.