Why Mobile?
Over the past few years, cell phone infrastructure in
developing countries has been increasing exponentially, with towers being
constructed in many rural areas. As a result, many people own, have access to
or are at least familiar with cell phones. In fact, we saw that in a
particular rural village we visited with a new mobile device, 33/64 people
drew comparisons between the new device and cellphones, asking questions
about cost, features, infrastructure and marketing. With popularity and
infrastructure mutually encouraging expansion of each other, cell phones are
manifesting themselves as ideal computational platforms for applications in
the areas of health, education, communication etc.
Cell Phones for Persuasive Health Information
Though there is an abundance of health information in the
form of textbooks, online references etc. it is highly underutilized in
developing regions. There is a need to effectively provide access to health
information to rural community health workers in order to prevent avoidable
tragedies. Drawing from ideas of mobile persuasion, which takes advantage of
presenting and accessing information at the opportune time, we believe mobile
technology can further contribute to the effectiveness of health materials.
Cell phones for Educational Games
Cell phone mobility provides an advantage in that learners
can practice language skills at their convenience in environments outside of
school (e.g. while working in the fields), in accordance with the immersive
approach to foreign language learning. Also, cell phone connectivity (even if
it is intermittent), can allow users to receive new applications and
upgrades. These ideas are further elaborated on the MILLEE project
page.
