Concept Two

Mobile Learning- Using lap tops in schools

Many students in the classroom today already have a sound knowledge of how to operate mobile technologies such as phones, laptops and mp3 players. The use of these devices in the classroom allows for student centered learning and skill development. Although there are a number of important mobile technologies available to students, for the purpose of this blog I will be focusing on the laptops for educational purposes.

The group presentation about mobile learning gave a general overview of the benefits of mobile learning in the elementary classroom. I learned that it is not only limited to mobile phones and laptops but also includes devices such as mp3 players, global positioning systems, personal response systems and iPads. Intrigued, I wanted to learn more, particularly about the use of laptops in the classroom. The use of laptops within the classroom allows the students to be involved in a number of different activities while working independently, such as typing a school project, creating a presentation, searching for and collecting information and communicating with other students.

As students these days are considered to be digital natives the use of a device such as a laptop appeals to them on a personal level, as many students use computers or laptops at home. Students are able to use their prior knowledge of how to use a laptop and are able to apply these skills in the classroom.  These skills, combined with content prescribed by the teacher, along with the laptop allow for greater individualised learning within the classroom. Laptop use is an example of how to successfully incorporate the Technological Pedagogical and Content Knowledge (TPACK) model to show that “expert teachers now are those who can bring together knowledge of subject matter, what is good for learning, and technology (ICT)” (Teaching Teachers for the Future, para.4, n.d.).

I will endeavour to use mobile learning, and in particular laptops, within the classroom. As research suggests, the use of laptops within the classroom “increases students and teacher technology use, student engagement and interest level and an increase in student achievement” (Education Queensland, 2012, para.1). Students benefit from hands on practical lessons where they are able to gather their own information and have responsibility for their own learning.

It is important that educators recognise the skills and knowledge that their students bring to the classroom, and that they are continually developing the skills and knowledge through each and every lesson. Mobile learning is changing the way educators teach, as they need to keep up with current technologies while being able to communicate these technologies to their students.

References:

Education Queensland (2012). 1-to-1 Learning. Retrieved April 10, 2012 from http://education.qld.gov.au/smartclassrooms/working-digitally/1-to-1-learning.html

Teaching Teachers for the Future, (n.d.). Retrieved April 10, 2012 from http://www.ttf.edu.au/what-is-tpack/what-is-tpack.html