Class of 2012 Abstract / Specific Aims: To assess the use of PDA/smartphone based electronic drug databases among pharmacists as it has changed over time. The working hypothesis is that the use of PDA/Smartphone based electronic drug databases has increased over time. Methods: A systematic review of the literature regarding the usage of PDA/smartphone based electronic drug databases among pharmacists using data that was obtained through literature searches. Main Results: Since 2006, the percentage of pharmacists that are using PDA/smartphone based electronic drug databases has increased. Conclusions: The usage of smartphones and PDA based electronic drug databases has increased among pharmacists since 2006 (p<0.05). Easier and cheaper access to the technology has likely led to the products being available to more pharmacists.

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As handheld computers are becoming powerful, portable and wireless, they have recently received considerable attention in education because their multi-functionality and mobility can be used for supporting learning activities in various manner. In spite of the potential in education, handheld computers have several limitations. One of the critical limitations is the small screen size. In an attempt to find factors affecting text readability on the small screen of handheld computers, this study, first, reviewed basic reading process and reading model, previous studies examining potential factors affecting text readability on a small handheld screen. This study investigated the effect of screen orientation and margin on reading performance (reading speed and comprehension) and subjective impressions (ease of reading, mental workload and satisfaction) with a handheld computer. A 2x2 within-subject factorial design was conducted with 16 participants reading texts from a PDA (Compaq iPAQ 3850). The results of this study indicated that neither screen orientation nor margin had a significant influence on objective reading performance and subjective impression. It was found that there were no prevailing preference of screen orientation and margin in reading texts from a handheld computer screen. It was also found that participants had a favorable reading experience with the handheld computers. Based on results of experiments and post-experiment questionnaire, a set of recommendations was developed to improve reading from small screens of handheld computers. / Master of Science