In this video a group of third grade students are using smart phones in their classroom. The students are very excited about using a new technology during classroom work. The teacher even commented about how engaged all the students were in the activities. The students in this video are able to use their smart phones to watch videos and access the Internet as well as to help them draw out their multiplication problems. I think that this is an excellent way to integrate technology into the classroom. Students in third grade are very familiar with technology, and are not going to want to learn with pencil and paper. One student even comments about how pencil and paper work is boring for her. The students are able to have their own smart phone, and are excited to use the new technology. They are so much more engaged in their work because allows the students to learn by doing. I believe that the students are going to benefit in a very positive way academically from the use of smart phones in class. Also, like many Jr. high and high school students receive a laptop they are able to take home with them, these third graders may be able to take their smart phones home with them. They will be able to use their smart phones to do homework. When the principal was asked if the students would be responsible, he explained that the students want to be able to use the phones during classroom actives, so they will be responsible enough to bring them back. I agree with the principal, and I think that it is a great opportunity for teachers to integrate technology into the classroom in a fun way.
In the article, Educational Uses of Handheld devices: What are the consequences, by Yanjie Song, from Techtrends Journal, many of the consequences of using handheld devices are brought up. The author does agree that handheld devices are a great way for students to learn using technologies. She even states how handheld devices can benefit students through education, management, information seeking, data collection, and context awareness. She however thinks that it is important to bring up some of the negative aspects of using handheld devices in schools. The first point she bring up is that often times taking tests on handheld devices is done through multiple choice tests with instant results. This is difficult to perform on a handheld device, and is recommended that the student use a computer. Also, it takes away the critical thinking aspect of the test. The next point the author makes is that handheld devices need to be monitored and censored so that the students are able to use them for educational purposes. Lastly, the author brings up technical difficulties one might experience. I think that although the author brings up some of the negative consequences of handheld devices in schools, that the pros far weigh out the cons. After watching the video above, I am convinced that the route those third grade students and teachers are taking is the route education needs to go in.
Song, Yanjie. "Educational Uses of Handheld Devices: What Are the Consequences." TechTrends 51.5 (2007). Print.
Smartphones at School. World ATV 8, 2011.
Smartphones at School. World ATV 8, 2011.
