For the mobile learning lab, I joined Classroom2.0 and read some other people's opinions on students using cell phones in the classroom. I also wrote my own response to this topic saying how I think that it would be a great motivator to let students use their cell phones in class, however there are many obstacles such as, district policies of no cell phone use in class, students who can't afford cell phones, and students "playing" with their phones instead of using them for what is intended.
I also created a poll using Poll Everywhere. My poll question was "What was your favorite thing you did over the summer break?" I tested it out by sending a text message response and it worked really well! I could definitely see myself using this program if I get moved back to teaching 8th grade, however since I am currently teaching kindergarten this would not be feasible. If I was to use Poll Everywhere with middle school students, a challenge would be that our district has a policy that cell phones are not allowed in the classroom so I would have to use it for homework assignments.
In the elementary classroom, I can see myself using iPads for small group work with educational apps. I would also love to have access to mp3 players for students to listen to audio books as a center; right now I currently use our outdated tape player to play books on tape. The challenge here is that our district does not have up to date technology, so I do not have access to multiple iPads or mp3 players. We have just recently passed a technology bond, so hopefully these resources will become available within the next year or two!
Congratulations on your technology bond - what an achievement=8-) To change the topic - We have a similar cell phone policy in Durand. On the flip side, I know of some enterprising teachers who have been able to get administrative permission to use them occasionally for classroom projects. Phones are collected at the beginning of the hour, then handed back to the students for the activity, then collected again at the end of the hour. I think that it's time that districts loosen up the restrictions just a bit and develop a comprehensive AUP that includes cell phone and BYOD regulations. Something to think about ...Dragon Dictation. It's a free recording app. I'm hoping to us it in a center with my students to help develop their reading fluency skills. Keeping my fingers crossed that you receive the technology you want for your students as a result of the bond.
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