Mobile Devices in the Classroom and Beyond

Apps - subject related, productivity, web 2.0 apps | Mobile Devices Beyond the Classroom | Differentiation |

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New tools, and new uses for tools that students have already, are known as disruptive technology. While many schools ban mobile technologies, others are finding they are great additions in and out of the classroom. Regular cell phones, smart phones, iPods, iPads all have features which can be used productively in classrooms, and beyond!

How can we harness their power to enhance the educational experience?
How can these new devices help ensure student success in an every-changing world?



Flickr user " Barrett Web Coordinator" (Some rights reserved)

Cell Phones in the Classroom

Cell phones and other mobile devices allow us to break down the classroom walls
Bring information in through

• web searches
• calling out to interview someone
• Skype  - no cost to another Skype user
  

Go out to get information

• Bring them on a field trip to record images, reflections, read QR codes to learn more
• photograph outside the classroom and use the photographs for projects
• record an interview outside the classroom and bring it back (collect oral histories, interview experts...)
  

Organize

• synchronize information between computers and other devices
•  use apps for notetaking, brainstorming...

Apps for Specific Subjects

Using Mobile Devices for project based learning - an LES using a tablet

Support Differentiation

• convert speech to text
• have the device read text to the student - how to use VoiceOver on the iPad
  
• speak a search term

Managing Cell Phone Use

Tips One teacher has her students deposit their cell phones on her desk when they enter her class. When it is time to use them pedagogically, they come and pick them up.

 

To Read

Ideas for Managing Cell Phones in the Classroom
Teacher Tube Videos (if you login (free) you can skip the ad) - Cell Phones in Schools