Abstract
A novel concept of ICT based service, which is called N-device service, is proposed and implemented in the form of N-device smart education services. The N-device services are different from the existing N-screen services in terms of the number of devices a user is using for a specific service at the same time. A N-device service consists of several smart devices which are different in size, software and hardware platform, mobility, manufacturer and the like by fully utilizing the characteristic of each device. The major and unique features of N-device services are analyzed and depicted in a strict way. Those are shared role for each device, service by configurable device, one sensor multiple use, real-time data sharing, role shifting and new market creation. It is turned out that the N-device service is more human centric compared with existing ICT based services and can give richer digital experience to users because non-existent services become possible with the new concept. However, there exist several barriers to be implemented and commercialized in the real world. Those include high development cost and time, small market and different application platforms of devices. These barriers can be overcome by technical advances and cooperation between relevant parties. The smart education is very prominent area, in which the novel concept can be applied with high priority because Korean government announced its plan to boost up new educational services with big budget and these are acceptable by enthusiastic Korean parents and students. That's why the N-device service is implemented in the education area, which is called as "livessam(live teacher)," with four smart devices, IPTV, tablet PC, PC and smart phone. By providing both detailed service scenario and techniques, we shows that the novel education service is technically feasible and acceptable by teachers and students.