The availability of iPods and cellphones have opened up a new way for teachers in teaching their students. The use of these new technologies when used correctly can help students to learn in creative ways. The iPods and cellphones can be used in the following ways.
- Polling activities, calculation tools,
- Web browsing to find information, research and read news, articles and current events
- Explore Google Maps and learn to use GPS
- Use QR codes in learning activities
- School projects. Record video and audio to create video projects and podcasts.
Some rules pertaining to the use of iPods and Cell phones in School / Classroom
Draw up a set of rules to ensure the safe use of iPods and cell in schools.
Students need to know that these basic rules and follow them:
- No usage of iPods and cell phones during instructional time.
- Do not use the devices for bullying or harassing other students .
- Do not use iPods and cell phones for cheating in examinations - recording and sending questions and answers
- Sexting is not allowed - taking inappropriate photographs of other students and distributing them.
- You should not use your mobile devices to conduct any activities that are unlawful - drugs transactions, criminal or gang-related activities or similar activities.
If they have involved in those activities, the school will hand over those cases to the police for further actions.
They must be made to understand that if they do not follow these rules and use their devices that is detrimental to other students or tarnish the good name of teachers and school, they will face disciplinary actions and parents will be notified.
Other measures that school could implement:
- Perhaps the school could ask a police officer to come to give a talk on the consequences of misuse of mobile devices in the school.
- Parents sign agreement on the terms and conditions on the use of iPods and cell phones in school and be given a copy of the agreement. This is to ensure mutual understanding of the rules set by the school and cooperation from all parties.
References:
http://www.educationworld.com/a_admin/admin/admin393.shtml
http://www.kktv.com/news/headlines/83306172.html
http://worldofmedia2007-2008.blogspot.com/2009/05/10-ideas-for-using-cell-phones-in.html
http://www.kysafeschools.org/pdfs-docs/hotpdfs/Cell%20phones.pdf
http://www.ehow.com/info_8070452_use-cell-phones-ipods-classroom.html
http://www.cellphonesinlearning.com/
