What tools did you try?
I tried out a few different tools. The first thing that caught my attention was using iPods/iPads in the classroom. Most of my students have an MP3 player and I thought it would be interesting to see what educational resources there were for them to use this device. I think that having an iPad for doing research at their seat (as opposed to trying to get into the library) was particularly a good idea.
Also, since we have been doing podcasts I thought that having lectures on their device was something to look into. I used to take a tape recorder to classes and record the lectures to listen to on the drive home or later for studying for finals. Using an MP3 would be the next step up!
The other tool I tried was the cell phone's in the classroom since almost all my high school students have phones that I'm trying to get them to NOT be on. There were some interesting ideas on what could be accomplished on a cell phone.
What ways are you thinking about integrating mobile technology into YOUR classroom?
I am interested in using mp3 players so that students could listen to podcasts. I will be having my high school class listen to a number of podcasts and create a journal response. I also thought the cell phone pop quizzes/polls would be a good addition to the regular paper type quizzes.
What challenges (or inspirations) do you foresee?
I see a few challenges. One would be that electronic devices are banned for most classes in school. Occasionally teacher's can get a waiver for students to use their device for educational purposes. Also, I think that once you have a student using their cell phone or mp3 player they would want to continue to play with it even when the lesson was over. I have also had students tell me that these devices are the new crib sheets/cheat tools and that a number of students have all the answers put into their devices! I think regulating their use would be a big challenge.
I know I've said this many times over the past 3 weeks - but cell phone distractions just don't happen in my district. Students aren't allowed to carry them to class. They must be turned off and in lockers. It's interesting that you are thinking about exploring MP3 a bit further. I'm in the process of problem solving a Listen to Reading Center in my classroom - players came to mind as a viable option=8-) Just wondering what you thought of the Classroom 2.0 site. I have been a member for a couple of years and I always come away from the site with value information.
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