Mobile Technology In The Classroom

Your cell phone is not just a phone anymore.  Mobile technology is so important in today’s society.  Everywhere you go someone is texting, social networking, and taking pictures with their mobile devices.  In chapter one of our textbook the author states, “In the early 2000s, portable devices such as the Apple IPhone, and iPad made Internet access and computer power ubiquitous” (Roblyer & Doering 2013. p9).   After reading chapter 4 in our textbooks I learned that software tools are flexible and can be transferred to mobile device and this makes learning flexible for students and teachers.

As a Social Studies Teacher I find it hard to use mobile devices in the classroom.  In chapter 12 of our textbook, it discusses the woes Social Studies Teachers face when using technology in the classroom for example, Social Studies is such a broad subject and contains tons of information, this makes it hard to find apps that contain everything in this content.  Technology on this scope can also be costly.  As I continue to research I found that several apps that can help me use technology in my class.

1.        World Book is use on iPad.  This app describes this day in history using photos, music, and speeches. https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/world-book-this-day-in-history/id364739528?mt=8

2.       Google Earth can be used on iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.  This will be great in my geography class.  My students can look at planet earth with a swipe of the finger.  https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/google-earth/id293622097?mt=8

 

3.       Geocaching App can be used on the smartphone.  www.geocaching.com   This app will be great in my class.  We can have treasure hunts around the school campus.

 

4.       National Geographic World Atlas can use on the iPad.  I can teach my students how to use an atlas. http://www.nationalgeographic.com/mobile/apps/world-atlas/

One of the newer devices that are being used in the classroom is QR codes. “QR codes are small two dimensional barcode-like images that can be scanned with mobile device such as a smart phone in order to send the user to an Internet site” (Robyler & Doering, 2013 p218).  I don’t think that I am ready to use this in my classroom yet.  Everyday technology is improving therefore we have to continue to improve with it as educators.  I plan on using Geocahing in my class this school year.  My students will work in groups to find people and items around the school. This will help my student understand GPS and GIS.  I am excited about using more technology in my classroom.