Mobile
There is a lot of play in the blog world about mobile technology (Tim, Will, etc..).
A few notes about my experience with PDAs (you can google my name and read a lot more).
- Our experience with Palms was a great success. The 1-1 aspect increased student attention, attendance, and performance.
- The accessibility and portability of the technology was great. For example, using the Palms on our trip to Italy (with a translator tool) was a godsend when we stayed with host families.
- They wear out. Getting constant use was tough on the machines. The kids loved them, but they werent built for kids.
Can most of this apply to cellphones? Absolutely. Since we already have the phones I am wondering if educators are working on standards for using them in education. Palms had thousands of programs for education. Is the same developing in cellphones (perhaps overseas?). I think if we take a leadership role in curriculum and software many more possibilities might develop.
While I think most of the PCs in schools are really just used as expensive typewriters I also think phones should be used more than as a way to call Mom. If we can cross that barrier we might be able to leave the textbooks behind.
