Unit 2 - Mobile Devices for Teaching and Learning
Objectives
- The participants will be able to list the features of tablets and smartphones.
- The participants will be able to compare and contrast tablets, smartphones, and laptops.
- The participants will be able to list potential classroom uses of mobile devices.
Introduction
Yay! My teacher is letting me
learn using my IPad!
This is what your students will say when you tell them to take out their mobile devices in class.
There is a new compliment to education that involves empowering students and providing them opportunities to learn whenever and wherever, which is mobile technology. Research has shown that by using a mobile device with wireless communications, students are able to learn in real world situations (Chu, Hwang, Tsau & Tseng, 2010), thus preparing them for the 21st Century using the modalities and tools that are part of their everyday lives. Additionally student achievement is increased when the students are engaged and perceive the material being studied is relevant to their lives. Engagement has been categorized as a psychological process that involves attention, interest, investment, and effort that a student expends in the learning process (Marks, 2000). In looking at the factors that contribute to intrinsic motivation, recent studies have provided an indication that mobile computing devices can enhance the student learning process through engagement (Swan,van t’ Hooft, Kratcoski 2005). Research performed by Hwang and Chang (2011) found that student’s attitude toward learning and interest in subject matter increased with the use of mobile technologies and as such increase in learner attitudes results in a high level of student academic achievement.
In this unit we will take a look at the different types of mobile technology that are currently a part of student's lives and explore the opprotunities for classroom use. You will hear views from other educators as you formulate your ideas for using mobile technology in your own lessons and classrooms.
Chu, H. C., Hwang, G.J., Tsai, C.C., & Tseng, J. C. R., (2010).
A two tier test approach to developing location aware mobile learning systems for natural Science courses. Computers & Education Vol 55, 1618-1627.
Hwang, G. J., Chang, H.S. (2011) A formative assessment-based mobile learning approach to improving the learning attitudes and achievements of students. Computers & Education –Vol. 56, 123-131.
Marks, H.M. (2000). Student engagement in instructional activity in the elementary, middle, and high school years. American Journal of Educational Research. Vol. 37 (I), Pgs 153-184
Swan, K, van t’Hofft, M. & Kratcoski, A. (2005). Uses and effects of mobile computing devices in K-8 classrooms. Journal of Research on Technology in Education. Vol. 38 (I), 99 -114
Learning Activities
Read Looi, et al 2009: 1:1 mobile inquiry learning experiencefor primary science students:a study of learning effectiveness.
As you read think about the ways in which you might use mobile technology in your classroom.
Watch video on Educators thoughts regarding mobile devices.
As you read think about both the similar and contrasting thoughts of the people being interviewed.
Think about your thoughts regarding mobile devices in your classroom.
Bring your thoughts to the discussion section for this module.
Educators thoughts on mobile devices in learning - Video 
Read the two articles and ipad spec page listed below regarding classroom use of smartphones and ipads
USA Today: Schools use smart devices to make kids smarter 
60 Second guide to smartphones in the classroom
Read about the ipad and the potential for classroom use.
Watch the three very short videos below for an introduction on various mobile devices
Mark Saltzman: the difference between tablets and laptops
ACU Connected: Tablets VS Laptops
Post to the discussion page
On the discussion page insert a table with three rows and three columns. Use this table to list the features and the potential classroom uses of smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Write a brief summary of the differences between the devices; an example is provided below. Suggest five ways these devices can be used in your classroom to help engage students and augment instruction.
| Device | Features | Class Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Smartphone | Example | Example |
| Tablet | Example | Example |
| Laptop | Example | Example |
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