Students test 3G remote working

A group of students at a Singapore polytechnic hope to test the use of high-speed data mobile phones to remotely attend classes.

According to a report in news daily The Straits Times, seven lecturers and two students hope to interest Singapore mobile carriers in their project.

The scheme by the staff and students of Singapore Polytechnic will allow a group of 10 students access to internet-based remote learning tools, but instead of using a notebook or handheld, the team hopes to use mobile phones equipped with third-generation (3G) wireless data features.

The three local carriers are due to launch 3G services by the end of next year, as agreed to under the 3G licensing scheme carried out by the regulator, the Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA).

In addition to viewing lectures, remote students will be able to manipulate devices in classrooms using their phones, using 3G remote monitoring and control, said the report.