Investigating Students’ and Teachers’ Perceptions of Using the iPad in an Italian English as a Foreign Language Classroom

Recent research indicates that mobile technologies can support second language learning. However, studies focused on the use of the iPad as a mobile technology to enhance second language learning and teaching in schools are still scarce. This study reports on an action research project that investigated the use of the iPad in the English as a foreign language (EFL) context in an Italian school. The study sought to investigate learners’ and teachers’ perceptions of mobile learning through the use of the iPad. The data was collected through a survey (N=41), classroom observations (N=4), interviews (N=20), and recorded teacher meetings (N=5). Results show a positive impact on student motivation and on the approach to second language learning tasks. We found that within the duration of the study students and teachers became increasingly independent in the use of the iPad for English language learning and teaching. This study provides educators with hints on how to start integrating mobile devices to perform specific language learning/teaching tasks

Handbook of Research on Entrepreneurs\u27 Engagement in Philanthropy

Currently, very little academic research exists on the intersection of entrepreneurship and philanthropy. This unique Handbook fills that gap, exploring how and why entrepreneurs who drive success in the for-profit world become engaged in philanthropy. Top scholars in the fields of family business, entrepreneurship and philanthropy explore the many facets of this fascinating subject. These expert contributors explore an exciting new field of research on entrepreneur philanthropists who have generated wealth through the creation and development of their own business enterprises. The book offers a broad overview of entrepreneurship and philanthropy, along with a focus on specific groups of entrepreneur philanthropists (including women, Black Americans, multi-generational family companies and technology entrepreneurs) and a selection of case studies from around the world. This pioneering Handbook will appeal to scholars in the fields of business, entrepreneurship, nonprofit and philanthropic studies, public policy and administration, as well as practitioners and policymakers with an interest in the practical aspects of entrepreneurship and philanthropy

A taxonomy and a proposal for a classification of serious games

The usage of Serious Game with educational aim has been studied for several years; however, this is still an experimental field. The concept of Serious Game has different spheres being used with different aims, and, in accordance with the disciplinary area it belongs, it refers to many other meanings and concepts, so it is necessary to discuss on the general concept, analyzing its characteristics to have a clearer vision of the theme. To understand better and categorize Serious Games, the authors considered that the concept of game could be a basilar element of definition to give a systematic order to the numerous typologies of Serious Game. The chapter starts from Joan Huizinga’s research and Roger Caillois’ studies in games and human approach and effects of games. The authors define what a simulation is and combine it with the concept of simulation to formulate a taxonomy to someday become an acknowledged instrument of research on Serious Games and the contexts and fields of application