Mobile Learning

• What tools did you try?

I used Poll Everywhere which I really liked. Although it was a little difficult to have the kids use it at school because they all, as 3rd graders, have the same sign in. So they each had to be on a different computer to use it. It worked, its just that we had to go to the lab rather than use the computers in our room. My Poll Everywhere is here on my blog page.

I joined Classroom 2.0 and asked a question.
I think there are many good discussions on Classroom 2.0. However, I just have a difficult time with the concept of younger kids, like my 3rd graders using cell phones in the classroom. First of all, most of them don't have one. I read someone's message where their school was buying them for classes. I sure don't see that happening at my school.

Then I checked out podcasts. I really want to check these out more. Most of the podcasts I listened too were way too advanced for 3rd graders unless you paid for them. I will have to check around some more and see if I can find some appropriate ones for younger children.

Then I went and looked at flip cameras. I have a flip camera, which I use to record different things in the classroom. I never thought about having the kids use them! We do interviews of different people throughout the year and they could certainly video them with the flip camera. I will definitely be doing this in the future.

Flash drives are something I could definitely use. I think this is a great way to show parents what we are doing at school, plus the children could work on things they didn't finish at school. They can also be used to showcase 3-Portfolios. I wish I would have thought of using these sooner!

• What ways are you thinking about integrating mobile technology into YOUR classroom? As I said above, I think I will try using flash drives and my flip camera for sure. I will check out more podcasts to see what I can find in this area. I will also continue to look at Classroom 2.0.
  
• What challenges (or inspirations) do you foresee? I worry that the kids may lose the flash drives! Any suggestions for ways to keep them safe?
  I think it will be a challenge to find appropriate free podcasts, but I'm sure they are out there!