Abstract
This chapter presents an application, Join the Board (JTB), which provides shared and collaborative work environments between digital iPhone and iPad devices through a Network of Local Area (LAN) over a Wi-Fi connection. JTB allows using two connection types in the board: an off-line board (the user has a local and individualized work) and an on-line board (the user can create sessions that each one gives a collaborative board. All the devices that are interesting to work in this collaborative board must be joining to this session with a specific role system and start working on it). All the workflow in a collaborative board is through a turn management that is controller by a moderator device. JTB has only been developed for the family of iPad and iPhone version equal or higher than 5.1 operating system and behind using more than six design patterns and implementation. It has been developed three types of different and specific protocols that form the core of JTB application and it have been used for the encoding messages and managing the entire dialog between devices. This chapter shows a full case study that shows the potential of the functionalities.
TopFunctional Description
JTB is based on simulate digital boards that offer participatory workspaces to all devices that are connected. Each board is managed by one of the participants who has the role of moderator and that arbitrates access to the same for scripture through a shift system.
This functionality is achieved through the development of a complex protocol of communications and synchronization among devices. This protocol consists of a dialogue based on the passage of messages that are exchanged by all the users of each board on the basis of a Wi-Fi connection required for the operation of the application in collaborative mode (online).
JTB also allows the option of using a board locally based (offline), used as a single device and keeping all its functionality without the need for Wi-Fi connection. This allows local and individualized work to the user where there is no moderator. This operating mode is always available in the tool.
In the Figure 1 shows a general overview of the operating modes that presents the app JTB.
Figure 1. General description of the JTB
Key Terms in this Chapter
Graphical User Interface GUI: It is an interface that is used to issue commands to a computer by means of a device such as a mouse that manipulates and activates onscreen images.
Information and Communication Technologies (ICT): It refers to technologies that provide access to information through telecommunications.
Local Area Network (LAN): It is a computer network limited to a small area such as an office building, university, or even a residential home.
iPad/iPhone: Are mobile devices developed by Apple.
Wi-Fi: Is a wireless networking technology that allows computers and other devices to communicate over a wireless signal.
Twitter: Is an online service that allows you to share updates with other users.
Application (App): It is the same thing as a software program. While an app may refer to a program for any hardware platform, it is most often used to describe programs for mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets.
Computer Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL): It is a strategy of teaching and learning that builds knowledge through a collaborative work supported by technological resources.