Kolb (2006) explains that cell phones can be used in the classroom in a variety of ways that are both creative and innovating in a modern technological based world. Using them to make audioblogs where they can post interviews, share information, posts photos or movies and upload them to the internet where they can share in an online world with their fellow students. However it is not limited to just this, students can edit their photos, videos, interviews using programs or applications such as imovie or movie maker (2006). One of the great things that Kolb (2006) explains is that this idea of using a cell phone in the classroom is not just limited to one subject; social sciences, sciences and art are just some of the subjects where a cell phone can be utilised as a tool for the classroom.
Kolb (2006) also provides a 'how to' for audi blogs speaking from experience on how to use this to get students connected she even included suggestions on how to combat problems of inequality arising due to cost and also safety and privacy issues. Kolb (2006) further goes on to explain that whilst some may fear using the cell phone for a fear of lack of control there are ways in which a teacher can combat this such as using passwords and having full access to students postings.
Kolb's (2006) article "From Toy To Tool" provides some great advice and ideas on how to use the cell phone an item most consider a toy in the classroom as a tool for connecting with students and keeping them engaged in a world that is constantly using technology. Whilst the article does provide information on control, safety Kolb (2006) could perhaps invest in providing further links to sources that teachers could utilise when trying out cell phones in the classroom.
Kolb's article has given specific examples of how useful a cell phone whilst there are teachers out there who think using a cell phone in the classroom might be great many don't know how to use it in a friendly and safe way. After reading Kolb's (2006) article I can now confidently use a cell phone in a class room to actively and effectively engage kids and get them connected whilst also teaching them about privacy issues, correct sourcing of information and cyber etiquette
Kolb, L. (2006). From Toy To Tool. Learning & Reading Technology, 34(3), 16-20. Retrieved from https://www.iste.org/store/publications/downloads/l-l
I do agree that cell phones could come in very handy and could be a great asset to the classroom. I have recently even heard of elementary school teachers that allow tablets to be brought to their classes. However as a student that has a cellphone myself I honestly believe that allowing cell phone use would be more harmful that helpful to the classroom environment. The fact that cell phones receive messages and stuff is just a click away can make it very easy to be distracted. Another problem that I have with this is that I would not want any of my students to feel left out, I would worry that if all of my students had a cell phone except one or two of them then they would feel left out.
ReplyDeleteSasha,
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you really summarized this article well and got a lot out of it. I'm curious to know a couple more things about the article now that I've read your reflection. Did Colb mention in her article what age level she was working with, and what are the suggestions she had about combating the inequality problems? Like Veronica mentioned, I wouldn't want students to feel left out if they didn't have access to the technology. I do like the idea though to look at cell phones as a solution to education rather than a problem in the classroom.