From the first phone call to the first text message, the rise of mobile technology has revolutionized education and changed how we access information and engage with others. However, while it may seem like an advanced device that is used by everyone in their daily lives, the impact that mobile phones have on our learning experiences can’t be denied. With the introduction of more than a dozen new apps designed specifically for students, teachers, tutors, and parents, there are now many opportunities for educators to integrate this technology into lessons.
As noted by Epperson (2019), "The use of smartphones in education is increasingly prevalent, and it is no longer confined to just classrooms. As of October 2018, about 38 percent of K–12 public schools had added smartphone use as part of a broader plan to enhance student "As of October 2018, about 38 percent of K–12 public schools had added smartphone use as part of a broader plan to enhance student learning" (Epperson). Since most of us have been using our smartphones for years, there is no denying that they have had a significant impact on how we learn. This article will explore some ways that mobile phone use in education has improved the educational experience and the possibilities it opens up for future innovations.
Better Communication Between Students and Teachers Many mobile phone companies built their devices so that conversations between students and teachers could be recorded or transcribed. By adding these features, teachers can provide feedback through voice messages, giving students multiple options to express themselves and getting them closer to what they are trying to achieve. This helps ensure that communication between students and teachers is clear and easy to understand, which has an overall positive effect on the learning and teaching process. It also makes sure that student engagement is high, making it easier for teachers to focus on the individual needs and unique abilities of each learner. These tools can help overcome gaps in instruction, leading to better outcomes for learners.
Improved Feedback
A study conducted by the Pew Research Center found that "students who use cellphones on school grounds were nearly four times as likely to receive support from their teacher and almost twice as likely to receive corrective feedback" (Pew Research Center). This indicates that students are more engaged when their teachers have a way for them to communicate directly with them. Through cellphones, teachers can see things that students missed, giving them more time to work on areas they need to improve. Additionally, when students are able to share their thoughts and ideas with their peers, they are given the opportunity to practice problem-solving skills and become more confident in their knowledge. Overall, this improves the quality of education by providing real-time feedback and providing a space for students to share their opinions. Cellphones allow educators to take control of their classrooms, ensuring that all students get the same level of attention.
Less Distractions
When students have distractions, it can be difficult to concentrate on learning material or participate in class discussions. They will miss important information and may feel frustrated and demotivated if they cannot interact with classmates. One solution to this problem could be the implementation of digital whiteboards. Using a laptop or desktop computer, a user could create whiteboard images and then share the link with other users online. This provides a distraction-free environment where students can easily look at images or spreadsheets without having to be present during class activities. There are even apps available that allow students to create their own virtual backgrounds, so they can easily display their own pictures and videos throughout the classroom. Another option would be to install software such as Quizlet or Moodle that allows teachers to create quizzes, flashcards, and tests for students. These can be used in conjunction with e-texts, which students can download to save time while studying and make studying much easier. Some popular apps include Edpuzzle, MyMathLab, Khan Academy, and Duolingo.
More Engaged Learners If students are engaged in the learning process, they are more likely to retain information and engage in the activity. For example, research has shown that higher grades are achieved when students have completed projects based on their textbooks and are actively participating in class discussions (Santelli et al., 2019). In contrast, lower-grade students are less interested in completing assignments and are often distracted by electronics or social media that they might not be familiar with. To combat this issue, educators should incorporate mobile phone usage into lesson plans and encourage learners to use the device during class. It can also be helpful to set specific rules to avoid overusing cellphones or the constant temptation to check your email. This will help keep students focused and engaged while still allowing room for learning to occur.
Better Teacher Management
Having a separate app for managing student activities is crucial for keeping track of their progress and can be beneficial to educators. Educators can create reminders, organize tasks, and assign students to groups, which can help ensure that students stay motivated. An additional benefit would be to make sure that children who have trouble paying attention are identified and have accommodations made immediately. While this only applies to younger students, older students are more susceptible to these issues, requiring a different approach. Therefore, having dedicated apps for both teachers and students can help prevent miscommunication between them and reduce the risk of forgetting to do something.
Increased Student Motivation
Mobile phones have helped increase the motivation levels of students by providing a platform for interaction with friends. For example, a parent can send a video notification to their child or a friend that their child is late for an assignment or test so they know they can talk to someone. Likewise, a chatbot can provide instant responses to problems that students may have, increasing their chances of getting back on task. Although studies have shown that students tend not to be very active on their cellphones, it is vital for teachers to make sure that kids have access to a variety of interactive platforms to keep them connected and involved.
Overall, the impact that mobile phones have had on education is immense. By being able to capture data, record voice messages, monitor attendance, and create reports, educators can ensure that every student receives the best possible education. Whether it is through a simple Google spreadsheet or an Android application, mobile devices have opened up many doors for education and allowed educators to better serve their students. We can’t wait to find out what next steps educators take to bring mobile technology into education in order to meet the ever-changing demands of today’s students.