Syllabus | Schedule | Resources

Handheld Computing in Education

 
Objectives

 

Research and actual examples of ubiquitous, one-to-one computing, demonstrate the effectiveness of increased student learning and engagement that is possible when students have access to technology resources on a constant and regular basis. The idea is that computing power must be immediate, available, and "at-hand" whenever a student needs it for a learning experience. Laptop initiatives in recent years have demonstrated the gains that are possible when each child has his own computer; however, these programs are very expensive to implement. Kathy Schrock notes, however, that there is a "single type of personal electronic device that can be used for writing, computing, reading, graphing, presenting, record-keeping, photography, videotaping, surfing the Web, e-mailing, blogging, Web conferencing and instant messaging. This device has software available to support math, science, English, social studies, physical education, family and consumer science, music, drama, foreign languages – all for under US $500!" (1) This device is a handheld computer.

While it will be impossible to look at all the ways a handheld device can be used in education (that is a course in itself!), we will examine some apps installed on our classroom set, and explore how simulation software enhances learner engagement.

Activities for today:

  1. Overview of the iPod Touch
  2. Create a simple comic, using either:
    • Comic Touch (see overview here)
    • Strip Designer (go to Learning in Hand video blogs, and scroll down to Episode #19 for info on downloading graphics, etc)
  3. Simulation Activities
    • Run Lemonade Stand—How much money can you make?
    • Try your luck on the Oregon Trail

 
 

See the Resources page for additional information relating to today's topics.

Clip art licensed from the Clip Art Gallery
on DiscoverySchool.com

(1) Schrock, K. (2005). All the Rage for a Reason.
Retrieved Jan 23, 2006, from http://downloads.smarttech.com/Media/education/pdf/ieAutumn05.pdf.

See the handhelds (and other technology) in action at the Willowdale Elementary School

LearninginHand - Resources for handheld computing in education

Competing Visions of Handheld
Computer Use in the Classroom - discusses the importance of clearly defining our vision and goals before using technology in the classroom