Blog Post 2: Using Handheld Devices for Education

When it comes to using handheld devices in the classroom, it seems that the possibilities are endless.  Teachers and librarians are finding ways to incorporate these devices into lessons on a daily basis because of their many advantages. According to Morgan (2011), one of the most obvious benefits is their “portability and affordability.”  Schools seldom have the funds to purchase computers for each student.  The reality is that most classrooms have only a few computers for an entire class of students to share.  Handheld devices are an option for schools that want to put more technology in the hands of students because, as Morgan (2011) points out, they cost less than traditional classroom computers.

Technology such as iPods and tablets offer many tools for students and teachers alike.  Accesses to endless information through the Internet, the ability to collaborate and learn from each other, and the capacity to create and revise text quickly are just a few reasons students should use handheld devices.  They also “make it easy for teachers and students to share files and to include comments; thus, students can revisit written work more frequently” (Morgan, 2011).  Using technology has the added benefit of saving paper.  “Students can get assignments and send them back to the teacher, using the mobile devices. Teachers can then grade them and send the graded assignments back to the students” (Morgan, 2011).

Critics state many reasons why handheld devices don’t belong in schools.  Morgan (2011) says one concern is that students will become distracted and not use the device for educational purposes.  This concern is so great for some districts that students aren’t allowed to use handheld devices at all.  Another criticism is students’ ability to access inappropriate content and/or participate in cyberbullying on handheld devices.  These are all valid concerns and should be addressed when educating students on how to use handheld devices appropriately.  “While students can and do use these devices inappropriately, research indicates that with control measures in place, use of the devices can be beneficial” (Morgan, 2011).

In my opinion, the benefits of technology outweigh the drawbacks.  Therefore, technology should be a daily part of learning in the library.  Ereaders, searching the library catalog for books, and research online are some of the most commonly known uses.  I really like the idea of students using handhelds in stations for research or to create a presentation.  IMovie, Animoto, and other apps allow students to create an original product to share their learning with others.  Something that I’m excited to try is using QR codes to relay information to students.  Librarians can inform students of new books in the library, upcoming events, and any number of things through these codes.  Students simply use their device to scan the code and the information is literally in the palm of their hands.  Another good use of these devices is to encourage students to read. I will have student book recommendation blogs and social network groups for book clubs to promote reading for enjoyment.  After all, my love for books is one of the reasons I want to be a librarian! 

References 
Morgan, H. (2011). Using handheld wireless technologies in school: Advantageous or 
      disadvantageous? Childhood Education, 87(2), 139-142. Retrieved from
      http://search.proquest.com/docview/845517114?accountid=7113

Blog Post 1: Technology Strengths and Weakness

Technology is at times my best friend, while at others it is the demon in my nightmares.  Over the fourteen years I’ve spent teaching elementary school, I have come to rely on technology in all aspects of my job, whether it is simply being used to convey information to my students or the students themselves are being hands-on users.  When it works, technology really does make my job easier.  However, I’ve learned over the years to have a backup plan in case something goes wrong (the Internet is down, equipment stops working and can’t be fixed for a few days- or weeks, etc.).  

As I said, I use technology every day in my job, but am I definitely more comfortable using it in certain ways.  I feel that I do a pretty good job of modeling how to use technology as a source of information.  Throughout the year I give my students multiple opportunities to research independently and in groups.  They use computers and iPads to find information online through websites, databases, and informational videos.  My students also use the web to locate more traditional resources like books and magazines that I then check out or purchase for them to use in class.  Another way I use technology in teaching is as a practice tool for skills I’ve already taught.  My students use apps and web-based assignments at home and in class.  Using technology as a way to communicate information to my students and parents is one of my strengths, as well.  My website provides general classroom information to parents.  I update it weekly with links to my newsletter, explain upcoming assignments and homework, and list reminders about school events.  Of course, email is another great communication tool for helping students and parents stayed informed about what is going on in class.

One area in which I want to grow is incorporating more technology into lessons daily, not just as a source of information, but as a way for students to learn together, work collaboratively, and share their learning in meaningful ways.  I think the most effective use of technology is when teachers and students use available resources to meet all learning styles, so that students are learning in the most beneficial ways for them as individuals.  I already hold the belief that students should be involved in assessing themselves and then using those assessments to make goals for their learning.  Right now we are using mostly paper documents for this purpose, but I know there are resources out there that my students and I could use to track this data.  However, I don’t really know what those resources are.  My school recently created a technology team to share how we are using technology in our classroom- what we’ve discovered that works as well as what didn’t work.  I joined the team so that I could learn from my colleagues and hopefully incorporate that new learning into using technology in more innovative ways for both student learning and self-assessment.  I would also like to attend some trainings or workshops specific to using Web2.0 tools with younger students.  Technology is constantly changing, and in order to provide my students with the most beneficial and meaningful education that they can apply to their lives, I need to stay current in knowledge and application of technology in the classroom.

Class Projects