.FLYINGHEAD SCHOOL SMARTS
.TITLE Mobile computing and the teaching landscape: a relationship worth exploring
.AUTHOR Jessica McCurdy Crooks
.SUMMARY When it comes to imparting knowledge, especially to today’s always on-the-go population, few technologies offers the range of possibilities the way mobile computing does.
.OTHER
Mobile computing is the new frontier in technology. When it comes to imparting knowledge, especially to today’s always on-the-go population, few technologies offers the range of possibilities the way mobile computing does.
Just about everyone has some device that is part of the mobile computing world, be it a smartphone, cell phone, tablet PC, iPad, MP3 player or laptop — and many people have more than one mobile device. The benefits of these mobile devices are already being utilized in the work world and in the world of home consumer electronics, so why not in the learning world as well?
.TEASER Tap here to learn more about mobile computing and education.
.H1 The challenges of brining mobile devices into education
Many educators are supportive of the idea of utilizing mobile computing in various fields of study. In fact, the release of new devices is often met with great fanfare by teachers and students alike.
Some universities already have programs specifically designed to make use of iPods, netbooks and Kindles. The current hot ticket, the iPad, is being closely watched by teaching professionals and industry insiders alike. Its portability, storage capacity, and typical array of Apple-designed features make it an attractive option, especially for students.
.H2 Distractions
Understandably naysayers have expressed concerns about potential distractions from using these devices. Wireless connectivity means that students can access anything they want at any time, including time that should be devoted to learning.
Some students simply would not be able to resist the temptation to go off-topic, so to speak. No wonder some educators have already voiced disapproval of what could possibly revolutionize the education landscape.
.H2 Plagiarism
Plagiarism is another potentially vexing issue as far as mobile computing in the classroom is concerned. This is already being faced, not just by university lecturers, but also high school teachers.
Are educators really up to the challenge of tackling the problems associated with mobile computing in the classroom? The best solution is to have clearly defined parameters for the use of mobile computing devices in the classroom.
.H2 Compatibility
From a purely technical standpoint, there is some worry about possible conflict between the various mobile computing devices. In fact, Apple’s iPad was singled out for its Enhanced Data Rate (EDR) with Bluetooth. It is felt that other device users could experience problems when in close proximity to iPad users.
Apple critics are also quick to point out that the iPad’s lack of an external keyboard makes it less than ideal for the classroom setting. Whether this is as significant as some believe is still open to discussion.
.H1 What mobile computing brings to learning
Mobile computing changes the learning landscape in many ways. The ability to always be connected is a big plus, especially for working professionals who juggle work, school, and family. With mobile devices, adult students can quickly access anything stored during the lecture or respond to an urgent work request while at school.
This allows for a more relaxed learning experience knowing that they can be contacted if a need arises. Wi-Fi access will also allow students to do research when necessary.
Many supporters of mobile computing in the classroom argue that mobile devices provide an excellent way to engage the student. Since mobile devices are already heavily used, they argue that this could be taken advantage of to the student’s benefit.
Teaching sessions could be so structured that mobile devices become a natural part of the study environment. Students can easily obtain relevant information, share notes, and even establish study groups not hindered by location.
.H1 The pros and cons of smartphones in the learning environment
While there is ample proof that there are benefits to be had from including mobile devices into schools there are still opponents. The reasons for opposing this are valid, but not enough to stop the use of these devices.
The main issues, especially where high school students are concerned are increased theft of the devices and distraction due to other uses.
With a subscriber base of over 4 billion and growing, failing to harnessing the powers of mobile computing for learning would be a waste of monumental proportions. Interestingly, there are developing countries where children who are unable to go to school often have access to cellphones. Just think how much good can be done if these devices were used to send homework to these kids when they miss school.
In Jamaica and other developing countries, when there are floods and hurricanes, many lost school hours could be reduced. This would enable classes to still be conducted even when some students are unable to attend due to flooded roads or damaged infrastructure.
Without a doubt, mobile devices are here to stay. They’re going to be finding their way into classrooms. Wouldn’t it be smart to make sure educators knew how to tap into this incredible resource?
.BIO
