Should Cell Phones Be Allowed in the Classroom?
I began to research this topic to see what I could find on how classroom instruction can be enhanced by using cell phones in the classroom. As I started to research the subject, I came across the journal article Cell Phones in the Classroom? Yes! by Susan Gaer. This article is a great resource not only because it includes the reasons why cell phones positively impact student motivation and achievement, it also provides exercises and mini-lessons for students on how to use this technology appropriately as well as some specific lessons and activities to use with students. Gaer (2011) states that “with a bit of cell phone etiquette, I have found that students are responsible and will use cell phones as learning tools instead of just as toys” (p. 176). Gaer includes a functionality exercise, an etiquette exercise, and even the specific types of phones that students should be using. According to Gaer (2011), there are two types of phones that students should be using in the classroom: the feature phone or the smart phone. She states that “using and understanding these two types of phones will make it easier to tailor activities around them” (2011, p. 176). My favorite activity that was included in her article was “ask students to take pictures of their families, bring them to class, and describe their families to the class” (Gaer, 2011, p. 178). I think this is a great way to promote a positive learning environment for students. Also, if used at the beginning of the year, this is a great way for teachers to get to know their students individually and understand their unique backgrounds. I love this activity because it promotes diversity in a positive way.
Next, I expanded my search to YouTube to see if I could find any educational videos to support this issue. I found a great 3 minute video called The Mind Matters Show - Tom Dubick on cell phones in the classroom by Tom Dubick and Dr. Craig Pohlman. This video includes reasons why students should be using their cell phones in the classroom. Dubick states “we want kids to be creators of content not just consumers” (2013). I love this quote and feel the same way. If students are carrying around a great educational tool in their back pockets, they should be using it to enhance their learning.
Lastly, as I learned in the module readings this week, I feel that teachers should develop a written implementation plan to show how they are using this technology to enhance student learning. They should include the measures that would be taken if students are caught using these devices inappropriately. I understand that this may be a lot more work on the teacher’s part; however, it helps prevent against future issues that may arise as a result of using this device as part of classroom instruction.
References:
Gaer, S. (2011). Cell phones in the classroom? yes! Adult Basic Education and Literacy Journal, 5(3), 176-180. Retrieved fromhttps://login.ezproxy.net.ucf.edu/login? auth=shibb&url=http://search.ebscohost.com.ezproxy.net.ucf.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=eric&AN=EJ951353&site=eds-live&scope=site; http://www.coabe.org/html/abeljournal.html
Pohlman, C. & Dubick, T. (2013, February 28). The mind matters show - Tom Dubick on cell phones in the classroom. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C2bFq2gOU5o