High Tech Learning: High Tech Hardware

In the past, the computer was the hot technology tool. However today, smart cell phones, GPS devices, and iPods are also on everyone's "must have" list. Let's explore some of the possibilities.

Handheld Devices

Read The Power of Handhelds: Reading, Writing, & Math Across the Curriculum
When you combine handheld devices such as the Palm with practical applications and authentic assignments, educators can create a powerful environment for learning. This session examines the array of resources and tools that promote reading, writing, and math across the curriculum. From ebooks to visual information organizers, explore how handhelds complement your existing resources, expand learning opportunities, and facilitate differentiation.

There are a wide range of handheld devices that you might wish to explore. For lots of examples and ideas, go to Learning In Hand by Tony Vincent.

Explore a Great Gadgets presentation by Leslie Fisher for lots of examples.

GPS and Place-based Learning

Explore GPS Devices and Place-based Learning. Explores ways GPS devices are integrated into classroom and community activities. Also, provides endless activity ideas and curriculum connections. Whether talking about learning or a Global Positioning System device, it’s important to start where you are. This session examines how GPS devices are used in schools and community and provides endless activity ideas and curriculum connections. Place-based education connects schools with the local community by grounding learning in local phenomena and lived experiences. Rooted in Dewey’s focus on authentic learning, placed based approaches include cultural and historical studies, nature exploration, and real-world problem solving. Students use technology including GPS to mark, trace, track, identify, coordinate, and conduct experiments. In addition to many classroom activities, the session will explore Geocaching, benchmarking, and other established GPS-based projects.

Mobile Learning

Rather than fighting student interest in cell phones, why not consider productive uses in teaching and learning?

Read Get Them Learning Anywhere from Apple. Explore some examples of Mobile Learning.

Read about how a Psychology professor uses the iPhone in the Classroom.

Explore some of the following resources:

• Cell Phones by Wesley Fryer
• iphone Applications by Leslie Fisher

Learn More

Briggs, Linda (January 1, 2006) The Age of the Smart Cell Phone. Campus Technology.

Links to the materials in this section can be found in the navigation bar on the left side of this page. You've completed the High Tech Learning section. Continue to the High Tech Learning: Overview to Technology Tools page.