How to Use Cell Phones as Learning Tools suggests that phones can be used for learning
not only in the classroom, but also just about anywhere travel which means
learning doesn’t stop once the school day is over. Cell phones in the classrooms are also economical and environmentally
friendly. It cuts down on the cost of expensive computer labs, and helps save
trees by not using so much paper. 
The use of videos and pictures on a cell phone can help students capture
notes and focus more on lectures. If they’re at home and want to review the
lecture, all they have to do is go back to their cell phone and review it
instantly.
Cell phones are also making classes more interactive by teachers and
students engaging in chat sessions.
Students can post their questions and comments and receive answers
instantly. This can be done
discreetly so students feel more comfortable about voicing their questions or
concerns without feeling embarrassed.
It also encourages everyone to think and have opinions on particular
subjects, which enforces cognitive thinking.
The problems with cell phones in the classrooms are addressed starting
with those students who don’t have one. This problem is solved by forming group activities so one phone can be
shared among several students at one time.
The other problem of having cell phones in the classroom is getting
reception in order to use them.
This may be a school issue of getting WIFI in the building. If it’s a major problem, teachers
should just assign cell phone related assignments for group work or homework.
Finally, the issue of inappropriate use of cell phones in the
classroom. The article suggests
letting students teach teachers and other students about the inappropriate ways
to use a cell phone. Teachers are encouraged
to discuss the consequences of cell phone misuse on a regular basis. This keeps students aware of the
misconduct and penalties.
Educators should take advantage of the fact that most students
have mobile devices and allow them to use them in the classroom. Yes, many school
systems have imposed a ban on student’s use of cell phones in school; however,
with the proper rules about student cell phone use, the phones can benefit a
student’s education. For example,
The benefits of cell
phones:
1. For students who take notes slowly, camera cell phones can
take photos of the blackboard, and phones with recording apps can record
lectures. Other students can record entire class activities in both audio and
video for absent students. Also, students can text upcoming assignments to
themselves and their calendars.
2. Access to the Internet would assist students in researching
and studying guides.
3. Calculators can be used for math class.
4. Language learning apps can be used for writing, spelling, and
grammar references.
5. Alerts can be issued in times of disaster, such as bombings
and bomb threats, storms, floods, tornadoes and shootings.
6. Students can contact parents in case of an emergency.
Restrictions on cell
phones:
1. No cell phone use during tests.
2. Use of phone during class only when instructed
3. Parental filters on smart phones so only age appropriate
material is allowed access.
4. Allow teachers the authority to confiscate devices at their
own discretion.
5. Inappropriate use
or unauthorized will be punishable.
There is
plenty of evidence that cell phones in classrooms enhance learning verses
harming or hindering it. Students deserve to be taught in a technological
classroom because that’s the kind of world we are living in today. Medical
technology plays a pivotal role in helping people lead healthier and longer
lives. Mobile technology helps users stays connected and conduct business in
places where traditional landline phones may not be available. Military
technology is crucial to a nation's ability to defend itself against threats of
violence and terrorism. These are examples of how technological developments
have never stopped; so why should it in the classroom?
Meg, O. (2012). How to Use Cell Phones as Learning Tools. Retrieved from http://www.teachhub.com/how-use-cell-phones-learning-tools
Teaching Today (2011). Cell
Phones in the Classroom. Retrieved from http://teachingtoday.glencoe.com/howtoarticles/cell-phones-in-the-classroom
Who would have ever thought that cell phones being used in the classroom would ever be an option? But they are and that's where our kids live. There are definitely pros and cons to the issue, and I believe education is the key.
ReplyDeleteI like the point that you brought up about how students would be able to post answers or comments immediately when posed a question by the teacher. I was one of those students who never raised her hand to answer any questions, so I believe this is a great way to get our more shy students involved with the learning process.
I loved the idea of allowing our students to take a picture of the notes on the board, especially for those who write slowly. And with the classrooms who use Smart Boards, downloads to computer files and ultimately cell phones is a distinct possibility.
Our school was recently involved in a local lock-down training drill that benefited emergency personnel to help train them of proper homeland security procedures. And one of the the points that the sheriff's deputy brought up was the fact that cell phones are great to have in an emergency, but also could be detrimental in a situation because if a large number of students got on their phones and texted their parents during a lock-down, it would create a chaotic situation for the emergency response teams. So, one of the procedures that we have in place in our county is that 20 minutes after a 9-1-1 call has been made from a school, all cell phone towers in the immediate area will deactivated. I'm torn on this, simply because I'm a parent and a teacher. As a teacher, maintaining order is very important in an emergency, but as a parent, I want my child to be able to reach me. So, I understand both sides of the coin on this issue.
However, ultimately, I believe that cell phones in the classroom, with education on proper use, and guidelines set to allow them to be used for particular purposes is a great idea. I'm on board! Great information.
Hi Muneer,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading your post. I found your "restrictions of cell phones" list to be very thorough and accurate as well.
I thought it wise of you to bring non-educatioan careers into the discussion as most of the students we will teach probably won't want to become educators. We need to prepare them for all career paths. Currently, I can think of very few jobs that do not involve the use of a computer or some other type of electronic device to get the job done.
I'm interested to see how the school climate changes within the next few years and see how school districts handle cell phones.
Allison
Hi, Muneer
ReplyDeleteYour post is profound, I agree with you that group work can really solve the problem so that students who do not have a cell phone will not jealous to the others. Even though there are some restrictions on cell phone in school, the pros are absolutely better than the cons indeed.
Students live in a digital age should being taught in technology method rather than traditional education. I believe mobile devices could be effectively facilitated someday in the very near future.
Yun