CEP812: Mobile Learning

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I have a growing interest in mobile learning.  I use mobile tagging through the use of Quick Response (QR) codes to market our school’s programs and services.  Mobile devices with QR readers can scan these codes to direct the user to our school’s website or to a YouTube video showing the courses that we offer.   I also have a QR code on my blog to direct people to my LinkedIn profile.  A challenge for me though, with regards to using QR codes, is I have not clearly seen how it is used for education.  Another tool for mobile learning is an iPod which I personally use quite a bit to get things done fast.

Since I am currently working in a computer lab where cellphones are not allowed, I cannot use POLL EVERYWHERE.  But in next few months, I have been scheduled to conduct a series of customized instructor-led training sessions.  I can embed Poll Everywhere survey and results in my PowerPoint presentations for skill pre-assessment.  My students will be teachers and school administrators – they’ll have cellphones.

I also checked out a blog post on “99 iPhone Apps for the Best, Brightest, and Brainiest Kids”.  I may be teaching adult learners but they are also parents who tend to get intimidated with new technology.  Through conducting free Lunch ’n Learns, I can try out and demonstrate some apps that can help parents relate to and connect with their kids.  Also, I am a mother who should teach these educational apps to my two iPod-owning daughters to prepare them for their school starts being open-minded about mobile learning. 

I have been a member of Classroom 2.0 since September 2010, but joining the Cell Phones in Education group would definitely help me expand my personal learning network.   I foresee rapid developments in integrating technology into learning and teaching; but my fear of not knowing what’s next or getting behind with technology updates becomes less by making sure I’m connected with the right learning network. 

Besides, no one should ever be stuck and left in a cage with Angry Birds ;)