Unit 3 - Mobil Optimized Applications and Web 2.0 Tools
Objectives
Teachers will be able to identify three mobile applications suitable for classroom use.
Teachers will be able to list the uses of the identified applications in their content area.
Introduction
The Mobile App
In this unit, we will look at the various mobile applications that can be used in teaching and learning. What is a mobile application? A mobile application is an application in which all or some parts of the software are downloaded from the Web each time it is run. It may refer to browser-based applications that run within the user's Web browser or to "rich client" applications that do not use a browser. Below are definitions of both client based applications and browser based applications. We will also look at examples of lesson plans that incorporate mobile devices and applications into the activities. It is important to remember that it is not the applicatio n or the device that drives the lesson. Rather these tools are integrated top enhance student engagement, collaboration, and outcomes.
| Browser based | Client based |
|---|---|
| In a browser-based Web application, JavaScript instructions are contained within the Web page that is retrieved from a Web site. Combined with the HTML code that determines the visual layout, the HTML and JavaScript on the Web page are executed via the browser. Alternatively, the Web page may cause the browser to launch a Java applet. Java is a full-blown programming language that is more comprehensive than JavaScript. The data for a Web application may be stored locally or on the Web, or in both locations. What this all means is that the mobile format of the application is changed for optimal viewing and functionality when accessing through a mobile device. You may have seen apps made specifically for mobile banking and retailers. | Client Based Web applications may also run without the browser. A client program, which is either installed in the user's computer or mobile device or is downloaded each session, interacts with a server on the Web using standard Web protocols. This is similar to the "client/server" architecture that prevailed in companies before the Internet exploded, except that today the server is often on the Internet rather than the local network. Just like browser-based applications, the data may be stored remotely or locally. This is an example of a program that is installed on the school district server/network for teacher and student use. |
There will be a lot of apps and websites to review in this unit. The more you explore, the more you will learn about which mobile apps are best suited to your teaching, your classroom, your content area, and your students. Take your time looking through the resources and enjoy!
Learning Activities
Take a look at the apps below. As you preview the app, think of ways you might use them in your classroom. How can students collaborate using the app? How can students produce using the app? Can any of the apps listed encourage self directed learning? After you have looked at the apps in this list, follow the additional resources link to find more applications designed for education. After you have reviewed a number of mobile applications choose three that you think you could use in your classroom right away and think of how you will use them. You will need this for this unit's discussion post.
Additional Resources
edudemic.com/2012/10/most-used-mobile-apps-education/
Live Binders - Apps for Education
LESSON PLANS
Mobile Learning Lesson Plans from Scholastic
Ipad and Ipod touch lesson plans
'Post on the discussion page'
After reviewing the various resources listed in this unit, identify three mobile applications that interest you and share them with the group. In your post include the following for each of the three apps. Additionally respond to two of your classmates and those that respond to you.
1. The name of the App
2. Cost of the App
3. Functions/purpose of the App
4. Type of device that can run the App
5. How you would use the App in a lesson
Navigation links