As teachers in today’s elementary school classrooms, we are being asked to meet ever-changing goals while meeting the diverse needs of our students. Times are changing, kids have changed, yet most teachers still teach using hardcover textbooks, workbook pages, and notes on overhead projectors. Most teachers have access to technology, but lack the training and time to use that technology for innovative instruction.
Mobile computing is changing the look of education (Horizon Report, 2010), and I wanted to share some related articles and links that give you ideas on how these devices can be used in your classroom tomorrow.
First, we need to define mobile computing. Simply put, those iPod touches in your desk drawer, that iPhone you use to check the weather and Facebook, and the netbooks in the classroom cart are all examples of mobile computing. Students are usually proficient in using these devices, but if not, they are quick learners. The school’s wi-fi access turn these mini-computers into real-time input devices, tools to individualize learning, and help our students prepare for life in the 21st century.
This article talks about iPod touches in a university classroom, but the discussion postings and polling abilities can be used in our classrooms today.
This link takes you to “Trashcan Math”, a math game using the iPod touch. Students link to the game, a simple spreadsheet, and then use their devices to input numbers to build either the largest or smallest numbers.
(link coming soon)
This last link is a list of popular apps used on the iPod touch for classroom use. I can see real-world possibilities for the iResponse (classroom response system), Sketchy (building storyboards), and the StoryKit (make your own book) apps. I have a third grader who would love to make a story on the iPod to demonstrate story comprehension…
What ideas do you have for using mobile computers in your classroom?
Cool Karey - envisioning these apps put to use through mobile technology in the elementary classroom is exciting!
ReplyDeleteAt the high school level, I've been looking at using mobile technology to help our teachers connect with their campus and professional responsibilities. This would apply in elementary as well! Hopefully we will see this disruptive innovation hit the grade school ground running soon!