Articles

What Can You Learn from a Cell Phone? Almost Anything!
by Marc Prensky


While reading this article, I had plenty of “ah ha” moments. I like how the author summed it all up by saying “Despite what some may consider cell phones' limitations, our students are already inventing ways to use their phones to learn what they want to know. If educators are smart, we will figure out how to deliver our product in a way that fits into our students' digital lives—and their cell phones.” It is so true.

One example mentioned in the article was the use of language lessons and games via cell phones. Another example was a guided tour. I immediately thought of how we discussed virtual field trips and how cell phones could be beneficial for this purpose.

I am a text message QUEEN! I think that text messaging is a quick way to communicate without having to even dial the number! IN the article, the author points out how text messaging can be used for pop quizzes, spelling and math tests.

Other educational uses included downloading programs and using the Internet and camera via cell phones.

Although the use of cell phones would not apply to the grade level I teach, I imagine that their use in education will eventually be common practice. It will take time and “flexibility on the part of educators”, but overall, cell phones can be used as a convenient learning tool.

Instructional Blogging:Promoting Interactivity, Student-Centered Learning, and Peer Input
by Stuart Glogoff

The author sites examples of how blogging has worked as an “exceptional learning tool”. The students are able to respond and give feedback to assignments, journal entries and reflections of both teachers and fellow students alike. Blogging can be used as a learner-centered tool through the use of feedback and comments.

Higher order thinking skills are used through blogging, for example, students can be asked to evaluate, support, compare or judge others’ work, as we are doing now.

Overall, the author considers blogging to be a versatile way to engage students in learning.

This semester was my first experience using a blog. I had a very positive experience. Creating and using my blog was simple and I was impressed to see my classmates’ blogs and their unique touches on each one.

Thanks to Laura for sharing how she used her blogging skills in the classroom. It was great to see how receptive the students were to this new instructional tool!