Thursday, March 24, 2016

Mobile Learning Technology

iPads in the Classroom

http://www.securedgenetworks.com/blog/31-Reasons-You-Should-Be-Using-iPads-in-the-Classroom

With access to over sixty five thousand educational application programs and the ability to utilize all the different types of media, the iPad is fast becoming the device of choice in the classrooms. With apps like Nearpod, teachers have the ability to directly send quizzes, videos or information to students devices. These students can access the information, respond and leave their work in the teacher's inbox.

With the ever increasing technological field and accessibility by students to these devices it is only prudent that we begin to use them in our classrooms. Many students complain about classes being boring and one dimensional so as educators we need to get with the times. Today's students have been using mobile devices from as early as one year old so by the time they get to school their ability to maneuver through the devices and its functions is almost second nature.We have to use devices and activities that allow us to align their education with how they interact and communicate. So to increase inclusion the use of the iPad in classes is one such step.  This device is very interactive and allows for students to do a variety of actions, from recording video to downloading graphs, books or audio.

The iPad is a small light weight device that is not as distracting as a tablet and seems to be less thief proof as the device can be kept on person. I like the option that the iPad gives for teachers to grade work. This could be very useful if I were to have quizzes using this device. As well It has apps that allows the teacher to structure and create special lesson plans for individual students with disabilities or who have had setbacks due to illness, injury or transfer.

Cellphones in the Classroom


http://www.isteconnects.org/docs/excerpts/CELUSE-excerpt.pdf

Cell phones are probably the simplest form of mobile device, however they have become faily powerful. These devices can access the internet and can be used for group discussions via text messaging of voice messaging. Most phones have cameras that can take pictures or record videos and these can be very useful for projects or audio and visual examples. These mini-computers have become more than just a means of communication but a direct source for interactions with internet services.

This is the easiest device for most students to get as many are inexpensive. It is also a small device and easy to cart unlike larger devices that are a bit bulky. Students are constantly on them so we might as well utilize them. There is an on going battle concerning the use or distractions created by these devices but if the teacher can structure and organize educational content and activities using these devices it will be easier to reach today's student. We would be speaking a language they understand as most of these students have grown up having access to these devices.

These cell phones are mini computers as they allow you to interact with the capability of a lap top. The speed which people can text is similar to how an experienced typist types. I think this device is the most efficient for online classes or seminars. It allows someone to be able to access groups while being almost anywhere where there is access to the internet. I can send assignments through specialized social network groups and my students can receive that information even if they are not in the country.  It is extremely useful for the person who travels for work and might not have the down time to get the lap top out for class. This is the instant "pop tarts" breakfast to the education world and as an educator I would use it as such for assignments to be handed in or class memos that need to be shared.





2 comments:

  1. I agree with you that students grow up with the technologies and they use those technologies to interact and communicate with others. As educators, we should create an environment where they can use the technologies for effective learning.

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  2. The mobility I have with my phone and iPad have given me the opportunity to return to school, finish my Bachelor's and pursue my Masters!

    As a manager, I allow my employees to work from home. We cannot base ourselves from our homes because there are tasks in the office we need to complete. I hope that I can be as flexible with my students in the future.

    Nancy

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