Cell Phone based, Hand Held Computers for Education
KMI @ TMI is a project that involves the use of mobile learning devices within a school based setting. This requires planning, appropriate utilization of resources and the involvement of various stakeholders. Without a level of commitment from the individuals involved (students, parents, teachers, administrators); complete information about the use of mobile learning devices may not be gathered.
Educational environments have responsibilities and obligations to provide students with tools that simulate real world learning environments. Mobile learning devices provide options that will lead to such conditions. In addition, cellular devices are updated periodically and provide means for access through the infrastructures that are built by such businesses.
Who is Involved with this Project?
Fifty-five fifth graders at Trinity Meadows Intermediate School in two classrooms will be utilizing the mobile computing devices. Click here to find contact information for the community members involved.
What is This Project?
Projected goals will be measured by the following outcomes:
Goal 1:
- Students will produce outcomes, based upon a learning constructivist framework and the use of cellular mobile learning devices in order to demonstrate a more in depth knowledge of the student knowledge and skills/learning objectives.
Goal 2: Response to Intervention Data Outcome Goals
- The classroom teacher(s) and Intervention specialists will work collaboratively to design best instructional practices and materials to increase students' technology skills.
Goal 3:
- Opportunities for students to extend their learning day will be made available via cellular devices.
Goal 4:
- An understanding of social networking and responsible technology use will be emphasized throughout the study.
- Students will produce outcomes, based upon a learning constructivist framework and the use of cellular mobile learning devices in order to demonstrate a more in depth knowledge of the student knowledge and skills/learning objectives.
Goal 2: Response to Intervention Data Outcome Goals
- The classroom teacher(s) and Intervention specialists will work collaboratively to design best instructional practices and materials to increase students' technology skills.
Goal 3:
- Opportunities for students to extend their learning day will be made available via cellular devices.
Goal 4:
- An understanding of social networking and responsible technology use will be emphasized throughout the study.
Where will the Project Take Place?
Matt Cook and Cynthia Varela's fifth grade classrooms at Trinity Meadows Intermediate School.
When Will the Project Begin?
The students will be given the handheld computing devices in January of 2009. Students will have access to their devices twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. The project will conclude at the end of school in June.
Why Mobile Computing?
It is not uncommon for students to use mobile technology devices for entertainment and communication purposes outside of the school day. Currently, students are not permitted to use these tools during the school day and must comply with the regulations that prohibit the use of these devices while classes are in session. It is understood that appropriate use of technology must be upheld; however, because of the limited number of personal computers within the classrooms, it appears as though mobile learning devices, such as cell phones, may be used for instructional and learning purposes. The use of cell phones as means to provide one-to-one computing should be explored. Therefore, through the use of mobile cellular devices, in conjunction with the Keller curriculum, selected Trinity Meadows Intermediate students will:
- Increase their levels of technology use.
- Expand and demonstrate their knowledge of responsible technological social networking use.
- Produce learning outcomes, based upon Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills as identified within the Keller ISD fifth grade curriculum documents.
How Will Mobile Computing be Implemented?
Keller ISD teachers are currently implementing technology into the curriculum. Our students will continue using computers, electronic white boards, and laptop carts to enhance the learning environment. Now, the integration of hand held computer "smartphones" will transform and extend the school day.
Commonly available features that can be used throughout the day, and outside of school:
- Calculator: Basic mathematic computations
- Calendar: Track study reminders, homework & assignment due dates
- Digital Camera/Video: Photography: data collection and documentation, visual journalism, creative writing stimulus, notes.
- Video clips: View educational clips
- Mobile Web Internet Access: Viewing mobile websites, classroom sites, e-mail
- mp3 Player: Listen to podcasts & classroom audio projects
Following regular instruction, problem based learning theories, and the Keller ISD curriculum teacher will use the Windows Mobile Platform to transform their instruction in and out of the classroom. Students will use the Verizon Wireless XV6800 by HTC Mobile Devices. Software added to the phone includes:
- GoKnow
- Microsoft Office for Windows Mobile