Mobile Learning
Introduction
Using portable computing devices (such as iPads, laptops, tablet PCs, PDAs, and smart phones) with wireless networks enables mobility and mobile learning, allowing teaching and learning to extend to spaces beyond the traditional classroom. Within the classroom, mobile learning gives instructors and learners increased flexibility and new opportunities for interaction.
Why Do We Need Mobile Learning?
The education system we work in is not always known for its speed at latching on to new ideas and methodologies, but with mobile learning it is catching up-quickly. The iPod Touch, for instance, is among the more popular mobile learning devices to hit classrooms across the country. This tactile, touch-screen device is easy for children to use, and comes with built-in Wi-Fi to access the Internet. However, it also has the ability to tap into the thousands of apps available at the iTunes store. For instance, you can use the dictionary and thesaurus on Dictionary.com, explore the world with Google Earth, or plot equations with Quick Graph. Download the Kindle app and turn your iPod into an e-reader, create your own stories with Story Kit, and find out about the latest space missions with the NASA app. These, and many others, are free downloads that are ideal for educators to use with their students in school.
The research that has been done on the use of mobile apps like these has been very promising. For example, a recent study funded by the Department of Education, looked at the link between learning, and the PBS Kids educational gaming app, Martha Speaks Dog Party. The study found that after children had used the app every day for two weeks, the vocabulary of Title 1 children between three and seven years old improved by as much as 31 percent. A similar study, conducted at the Abilene Christian University, centered upon the use of the Statistics 1 app. Students used it in and out of the classroom and remarked that they understood the content better, and were more motivated to do well, when using the app. The instructors agreed with this observation, and added that the students were also better prepared for classes.
Studies like these help underline the academic potential that mobile learning devices can have to enrich the learning process for students. They are versatile, motivating, and active learning tools.
Mobile Learning in Art Class
The best experience using technology in the classroom was interdisciplinary activity where we connected Social Studies with Art. The students were supposed to create a book using Flipsnack application. I think this was a great experience for the students and for me as well because the students could save their work and go to do other things then go back again. The best part of this activity was that the students could work on their projects at home and email me if they need help and send the link so I could see how much they developed their project. When they finished their project I just sent an email to the parents so they could see the final product. Specifically in this activity the use of technology went beyond classroom teaching. The students could do their research and work ison the context of their book and same time design their books. They could share their projects with each other and get feedback. They could check their grammar and spelling in their texts because most of the applications have grammar and spelling checking options. So in one project with use of technology the students were able to learn many different skills. The best part of this kind of progress is that the teacher doesn’t have to tell students what to do; the students have all these options to work independently.
Also, I had a great experience not only using online applications but also using different kind of devices, one of them being tablets for drawing. As an art teacher, I really enjoy using in the classroom tablets for painting and drawing, because these electronic devices give large variety of choice. The students can choose any application for painting that they feel comfortable to use, they have more flexibility and creativity. During Pop-Art project the students were able to develop their skills in photography. When they succeeded with their photos they used Sketch Guru photo editor, SketchPad and created the base for their Pop-Art project. Here I will share some of the student's work. The students liked very much working on this project and they were able to show their creativity. With technology in the classroom the students have a big opportunity bring their knowledge to the next level and creat outstanding artworks.
In the present day, more and more art teachers moving towards to flipped classroom and leaving behind old traditional teaching styles. Using digital devices and applications in art class gives more flexibility and an opportunity to create projects that goes beyond the classroom. For example, taken pictures by students in different places for different purposes or for different projects where they can share immediately through network. Taking online art field trips another advantage of mobile learning that I use a lot in my classroom. There are so many apps and websites for online museums that can help to create engaging and interesting art lessons. Many interesting art applications for activities that involve photography. Through these applications I can teach history of photography, visual presentation, and teach techniques to create different style and types of photography.
Overall, as a 21st-century art teacher I can’t imagine my class without mobile devices and applications. Starting from applications for classroom management and finishing with applications and devices for activities and projects the mobile learning is main tool in art class for students deep learning and achieving their goals.
References:
URLhttps://library.educause.edu/topics/teaching-and-learning/mobile-learning
Website TitleMobile Learning | EDUCAUSE
Article TitleMobile Learning
Date AccessedJune 28, 2017
URLhttp://www.scholastic.com/browse/article.jsp?id=3754742
Website TitleMobile Learning Technologies for 21st Century Classrooms | Scholastic.com
Article TitleMobile Learning Technologies for 21st Century Classrooms
Date AccessedJune 28, 2017
URLhttps://www.theguardian.com/teacher-network/2012/sep/10/mobile-phones-classroom-teaching
Website TitleThe Guardian
Article TitleMobile phones in the classroom: teachers share their tips
Date PublishedSeptember 10, 2012
Date AccessedJune 28, 2017