Mobile Learning

Tools in my Classroom
I have used many mobile learning devices in my teaching career, but just recently I have released these tools into the hands of my students. It was a daunting task to turn over expensive equipment to first grade learners, but a worthwhile opportunity.  This year my students have been touching iPads, iPods, flip cameras, and ActiVotes.  The 6 and 7 year old boys and girls have treated each new tool with the utmost care and respect after a build up of expectations.  I have also noticed that they monitor each other for the safe and proper use of classroom technology throughout the day.  My first graders use the iPads to go on Google Earth during social studies and they make How-To directions with the comic app, Pow.  I have a rule that the mobile devices in class can be used at any time...as long as they are used for learning the topic at hand.  However, I have also opened up a time for free exploration during recess so that there is an appropriate time for everything.  The nerves I had at the beginning of the year have vanished as I put more trust into the capable hands of my mobile learners!

Recently Tried
I just recently tried using Poll Everywhere in my classroom, but certain mobile learning is just not meant for first grade.  I can see the use of this tool being more supportive of upper elementary classrooms where students can have the option of using the computer link or the texting option.  The link below was given to my teaching staff as a means of exploring the site.  I wanted to see if teachers would be interested in purchasing school supplies ahead of time rather than the traditional school supply list.  I may try this mobile tool with parents next!  Feel free to cast your vote with the link below...

School Supply Poll

Future Use
I am anxious to try out new ways of using mobile devices in the classroom.  I have created Show Me's with the Show Me app on our classroom iPads, but my attempts have been less structured.  After the mobile lab I am excited to create Show Me's on an iPad for challenging content in math.  By doing so I can set up a group of students who require additional support with a mini-tutor.  Furthermore,  I can provide extension Show Me's on another iPad for students who need to be challenged while I am working with other groups.  The possibilities are really endless!  I would also like to try using flash-drives with my students.  My school has an existing drive for student use, but the mobility of the flash-drive would allow content to go back and forth from school to home.  Frequently used links can also be stored for easy access to parents.  This is still an idea in the works, and I am open to suggestions!

Mobile Challenges
The expense of mobile learning devices almost goes without saying.  Yet, I know there are opportunities out there to support technology.  I just received a grant for 6 new laptop computers in first grade, and this is the third grant that I have been awarded in three years.  Technology is expensive, but I know there is a way to get students what they need to be successful in the 21st Century.  I am more nervous about keeping up with technology in relation to the cost.  It seems that every time a new tool comes into the classroom, it is already out-dated.  Students know what is out there, even first graders, and they shy away from tools that fall behind personal mobile devices at home.  This seems like a battle that will be ongoing for some time to come.