Cell Phones in the Class Room
For a long time we as Teachers and Instructors have been dealing with the dilemma of students who bring their phones into the class room. There is no one solution to fit all, it will vary from school to school, and class to class, hence their is a degree of fluidity with this research. It is not a simple concrete yes of no outcome. But what if we can find a way, to determine if such phones, that have web access could be used for education? What if we had a form to determine both the teachers attitudes and practicality of such devices within their curriculum?
The research that I proposed to the IRB would perform exactly that function. It would enable the teacher, to set guidelines and standards for what is appropriate usage and what is not. It would also help a teacher to make up their mind and determine if their policy is to simply turn all phones off.
It allows the teacher to explore if they've allowed students to use phones in the class, for educational purposes. It examines how many have done this, and finally it examines what pitfalls exist that would have an impact on their comfort level.
It is a qualitative survey, the uses a Likert Scale, and quantitative results from these findings. There is no denial that there will be pitfalls with this approach, however, many of these could be addressed as the need arises. Other realities are going to impact the outcome, ranging from apathy to thechphobia.
I really like you study, this is huge topic for many teachers. I am a younger teacher so cell phones do not bother me at all in the classroom. I have taught high school and elementary and seen them at both places. I feel like if you are comfortable with technology you can really reach students where they are at and that is anywhere a cell phone can take them!
ReplyDeleteI agree with Michelle, however, many teachers have an issue with students using them in the classroom. I view as an excellent resource and it's a great way to flip-the-classroom. Do the practice at school and get some direct instruction at home. (Which many schools on the west coast already implement.)
ReplyDeleteI am curious to see for the teachers that are apprehensive with integrating this technology what would acceptable guidelines be for them to use them within their lessons.
What are the pitfalls? I'm curious... (that don't already exist) I teach middle school and although it is our policy to have no cellphones, students still keep with them instead of in their lockers. I would rather have students just keep them where I can see them. (Within my school building I believe I stand with the minority on this issue.)
I am for students using technology in the classroom. I have five iPads in my classroom for my third grade students to use during centers, etc. I wonder if high school students are using cell phones, which are similar to iPads and tablets, how are you going to keep them from using other apps and such on their phones already.
ReplyDeleteAlso, what about the students that don't have a cell phone?