Paying for a successful mobile-learning initiative goes far beyond just the cost of cellphones, iPods, laptops, or other devices.

One of the most oft-cited reasons for embracing mobile technologies in education is their low cost compared with that of other equipment, such as personal computers.

But at a time when many schools are battling significant holes in state budgets and facing staff layoffs, how realistic is it for schools to be investing in mobile technologies?

The cost of a successful mobile-technology initiative goes far beyond just the cost of the devices, which include iPods or MP3 players, cellphones and smartphones, personal digital assistants, larger devices such as laptops and netbooks, and a host of other gadgets that are easily portable. In fact, experts warn, the greatest expenses often come from the resources needed to support the technology.

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