Cellphones in the classroom? This would open up a whole can of warms...from texting "ChaCha" for answers to taking photos of tests.
Not sure what I think about this...
Additionally, not all parents are willing to give their middle schooler's cell phones. By using them in classes, we, as educators, would not only be endorsing the usage of cell phones but also requiring parents to provide their students with them.
As I think about this, I am currently monitoring a study hall for some of my 7th graders. They just went crazy when I suggested that we start using cell phones in the classroom. One student, a high performer I must add, said they could all get iphones and "play games" during class.
I don't want to get stuck on cell phones as both the video and article focused on more than just this piece of technology.
Over all, the integration of technology into the classroom is a great idea. I have taken our schools training on "clickers" in the classroom (remote answering devices) but have been hesitant to use them. I prefer my students to answer questions about history in a more thought provoking format of short answer or essay questions and thus feel like I have good technoligical tool without a way to APPLY it to my subject.
I guess what all my rambling is about is that technology needs to be effectively integrated into the curriculum to accomplish specific curriculur goals and NOT just for the sake of technology.
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I couldn't agree with you more - it doesn't make sense to start with the technology and make it fit. What does make sense (IMHO) is starting with what needs to be taught and using technology if it can make the experience more engaging and meaningful for students. You might ask your students to come up with ways their cell phones could be used EDUCATIONALLY - they might have some good ideas.
ReplyDeleteYou have a good point there, Riot Girl. I bet it would take getting accustomed to using cell phones as a part of their learning. But as I think about it what could be more natural...the phones are practically glued to their heads now! I bet kids are flexible enough to take advantage of the opportunity to use their cell phones to learn. It's a paradigm shift for the adults, however. It's exciting to be taking this "23 Things" journey, though...isn't it. I look forward to really learning a great deal.
ReplyDeleteIt does seem like a shift for adult thinking. It's our protective nature to consider as many angles as we can. In the end, we'll find a way. Cell phones are inevitable, especially with budgets so tight, kids can bring in their own personal internet engine in a itty bitty package. I've posted some resources that might help the conversation:
ReplyDeleteCell phone ideas
While it might seem like I am an old fudey dudey, I am actually quite young and thus feel like technology is a very essential and easy part of my every day life (I barely remember the "before google" era). However, I am still very hesitant about cell phones in the classrooms.
ReplyDeleteIn fact, today I was talking with another teacher about how our very affluent students seem to lack problem solving skills. She suggested it was b/c they always have machines telling them what to do and where to push and how to, etc.
Something to think about I guess...as I type on my PDA:-)