Using Cell Phones in the Classroom: Unsuccessfully!

Cell phones are a constant issue in educational settings. Even though it is clearly written in the syllabus and a campus wide policy that cell phones are considered a distraction, the use and often abuse of digital devices is an ongoing struggle. I've gone back and forth on how to address the fact that devices are almost like an extra appendage for many of our younger students. They simply cannot understand why it isn't appropriate to take and post selfies during a lesson. Asking them to stow devices deep into their backpacks is akin to cutting off their pinky finger.

As I continue to incorporate more technology into the learning environment, I decided to find ways to transform cell phones from personal use to an educational platform. One Digital Tuesday, the day I reserve  technology exploration, students paired up with smart phone owners to research educational apps and other tools. I demoed several examples and then teams were asked to explore the following free resources depending on the device: The Best Educational Apps (Android) through Edudemic and The 55 Best Free Education Apps For iPad through TeachThought.

Students were asked to review the descriptions of several apps with the option to download any apps that might be of interest. The groups were then asked to report back to the class with examples and recommendations of educational apps. I was looking forward to this lesson because it was an opportunity to infuse their interests (cell phones!) into the educational environment. However, the lesson did not flow as intended including lack of WiFi strength in the classroom, lack of interest in using devices for learning, and the disparity in technology between students.

While this particular lesson was not executed as planned, I am not giving up on using cell phones for educational purposes. It will depend on the activity as well as access to technology. In the future, we are hoping to receive COW access (Computer on Wheels) which I believe will be a better venue to explore apps. They can then opt to download the apps for their own use outside of class.