Cellphones in the classroom

 Cellphones in the classroom

 

The debate about the possible inclusion of cellphones into our curriculum still rages with both  sides presenting arguments for and against such inclusion. Meanwhile, the issue is being debated the world continues to advance rapidly around us. We then have to indulge ourselves in a game of "catch up" after the rest of the world would have moved on.  This is the plight of many developing countries.

To much is at stake for us not to take notice. Our children's future in a digital environment depends on the decisions we make today. If our students are going to be able to access and keep jobs in the digital work place, they have to  be exposed to modern technology. Additionally, they must possess critical thinking and problem solving skills, be able to work in teams, be flexible and willing to adapt to change, have good communicating skills and be information literate. To be able to adequately prepare our students, schools must embrace the technology that students would encounter in the workplace. The cellphone is one such piece of technology.

As it stands, our students have had a long association with cellphones that can be used as Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) and are well versed at using them. What they have not been exposed to is the use of the cellphone as an instructional or learning tool. The modern cellphones (smart phone) with a wide range of built in app and available software make them excellent choices for ubiquitous computing. With these phones students would be able to conduct online research, work collaboratively on tasks, prepare and present content, engaging in social networking, and take notes among other things.  

Although fundamental issues need to be resolved, such as the control over content and use, the potential for learning with mobile phones exists. With proper classroom management of which effective lesson planning is an integral part, cellphones can be utilized as effective learning tools. 
Are we any closer though, to allowing cellphone usage in our classrooms? I don't think so. This is as a result of a number of factors including the cost of internet service provided by our two service providers, the number of children owning a smart phone, the difficulty posed by the numerous different platforms used by these phones and the sourcing of software for them, the lack of a policy frame work for such inclusion and the absence of a core of teachers who are trained in the use of cellphones as instructional tools and spear head such an initiative.

Reflection Assignment 2

Assignment 2 is done and dusted. I do not think I did as well as I could have done. The missing element was the invaluable feedback from Mr. Roos. This is no fault of his, as I was unable to submit my 1st draft for his input. Did I enjoy it as much as I did my other assignment? I don't think so. The voice synchronization with the slides proved bothersome. On a more positive note though, my repertoire of ICT related skills is broadening.

Tablet Computing

Tablet PC's which falls between a smart phone and a lap top, has extended the mobility provided by laptops by its ability to capture hand writing using the "pen". This powerful piece of technology has captured the imagination of young people "digital natives" who would have made smart phones  part of there daily lives.
As an educational tool, the Tablet has endless possibilities of extending one to one computing, offering some unique abilities for instructional use. The portability, the pen-based input, the low power consumption  and the screen format provide teachers with increased options of presenting material in new and exciting ways. However,to harness its true potential as an educational tool, teachers must be knowledgeable of the technology and the applications which are available.

Although Table computing is what the industrialized countries are moving to, I do not see us making use of this technology in the foreseeable future. The mitigating factor here is cost. However, in my readings I came across an application software "bamboo" which allows limited use of a laptop as a Tablet Pc.

General tips for Tablet usage:

1. Acquaint yourselves with the technology and the available resources.
2. Plan effectively to maximize available instructional time. This is one of the pillars of effective 
     classroom management.
3. Allow for students to be engaged in collaborative activities.
4.  Establish clear guide lines for Tablet PC usage in the classroom.

1:1 Computing

One to one computing is considered by many as the latest trend in the evolution of technology. The nature of this form of computing allows students to take charge of their own learning, thus allowing them to become self-directed in the process. Additionally, students’ ability to work independently increases their critical and analytical skills and as a result reduces the time it takes for them to acquire and manipulate information. Furthermore, one to one computing has the potential to enhance students' technological capabilities and increases their motivation to learn which increases retention of information because learning can be presented in fun and innovative ways through the use of different computer programmes

Based on my readings and having observed our attempt at one to one computing, I have concluded that it is a very complex process and attention must be paid to all areas. Failure to do so would seriously impact on the success of the programme. In my opinion the following principles are key to the successful implementation of one to one computing:

• Have a phased roll out of the programme beginning with teachers.
• Have an administrative staff that can manage the change.
• Ensure that there is a well trained technical support staff.
• Provide opportunities for the ongoing professional development of teachers.
• Ensure that pedagogical practices in the classroom support the technology.
• Form strategic alliances with interested members of the community and business sector who would be willing to support the initiative.