The University of Central Lancashire has become the first UK university to launch its own iPhone application for their students.

The application was created during the summer break specifically with freshers (first year students) in mind. Director of Learning and Information Services, Michael Aherne said “At the beginning of term you’re always being stopped by students asking for directions, now they’re going to have the information they need in their pockets”.

Amongst the applications features are:

• Campus maps

• Fast webmail access

• Comprehensive library catalogue

• Staff directory

• The option to top up students’ printing accounts

• Facility to book meeting rooms in the university libraries

• Access to student union services such as booking tickets for events

The application can be downloaded for free from the Apple App Store and is compatible with both the iPhone and the iPod Touch. These features, however are not limited to iPhone users, the package is also available to access online via laptops and other web-enabled mobile phones.

“The new iPhone application illustrates our commitment to provide information and services to our students in a way that is convenient for them. Students today lead very busy lives — balancing study, part-time work and social activities. The iPhone application demonstrates how UCLan is increasingly able to support its students in a way that recognises their busy lifestyles and ensures they are able to get the most from the latest advancements in technology,” Ahern said.

Although this is the first iPhone application of its kind in the UK, a similar application was launched earlier this year in Canada by the University of Saskatchewan. A video demonstration of the application, iUSask is available here.

“The way the iPhone technology is advancing is remarkable, especially in its affect on education,” said Adam, a Digital Media Development student from Brighton. “It is surprising how quickly these technologies are infiltrating into universities, it all helps make studying and university life easier, especially features such as accessing library directories and topping up printing accounts.”

More information on the University of Central Lancashire application is available on their website.