Mobile phones present a familiar challenge as an instructional technology: Since everyone has them, there must be a way to use them for teaching and learning. Seton Hall University has been exploring possible uses through its mobile initiative. In this session Michael Taylor, Assistant Professor of Political Science and Director of the Center for Mobile Research and Social Change at Seton Hall University, will discuss the uses of smartphones in the classroom across multiple disciplines. Taylor will present the use of mobile devices in student projects including digital storytelling, mapping, polling, and in-field data collection. These projects highlight the functionality of smartphones to improve classroom communication, collaboration, and connectivity. Discussion will also cover the diverse pedagogical goals that were addressed in these mobile projects, as well as some of the challenges encountered in piloting these mobile projects.
The “Special Topics in Digital Teaching” series offers a sequence of interactive discussions showcasing how faculty are using digital technology for teaching and learning. The series is delivered online via NITLE’s multipoint interactive videoconferencing environment and is designed to help faculty make the transition from learning a new technology to using it effectively for teaching and learning. Participants are invited to join these lively discussions from the convenient location of their campus offices.
1. Teaching with Mobile Devices: Smartphones NITLE Michael A. Taylor, Ph.D. February 2010
2. Agenda The Evolution of Mobile Computing Mobiles for Mapping GIS; Web 2.0 Nokia Data Gathering Digital Story Telling Reflection; Research; Vlogging Spontaneous and Less Structured Learning Q&A
6. Do we have a choice? 4.6 billion cell phones 3.3 billion unique cell phone users One-third of students own and use internet services from a handheld device, with another third of students owning or planning to acquire a handheld, internet-capable device in the next 12 months. (ECAR, 2009) Mobile is here to stay – students need to be prepared
7. What Can Mobiles Provide as Learning Tools? Convergence devices Anytime, anywhere access to content Can enhance interaction between and among students and instructors Great for just-in-time training or review of content Facilitate collaboration through synchronous and asynchronous communication
8. A quick comparison Not looking to replace the laptop as much as to identify new ways of connecting, communicating, and creating content.
9. SHUmobile Strategic Question How can Seton Hall University capitalize on technology already being integrated into the lives of our students, faculty and staff to enhance the academic environment, administrative processes and community engagement?
11. Teaching and Learning Teaching & Learning Projects in: College of Arts & Sciences College of Education and Human Services Stillman School of Business School of Health and Medical Sciences Freshman Studies
12. Academic and Community Projects Data Collection (Field Research, Polling, Chemistry Lab Report) Spatial Analysis Enhanced ePortfolios in the First Year Experience SHU Story Corps Project – Voices @ the Hall Digital Storytelling Mobile device programming course Housing and Residence Life Social Media and Networking The Setonian Publication Community Collaboration, Communication and Leadership
13. Logistics Unlocked and wifi capable smartphones RFP for pilot projects Device distribution, support, and collection via IT SHUmobile FAQ, Wiki, and Blog
15. Rahway River ArcGIS Research Project ArcGIS course East and West branches of Rahway River Water quality sampling sites mapped GPS coordinates Geo-tagged panoramic pictures N95 Database stores indicators Village of South Orange
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19. Easier Mapping Solutions ArcGIS Necessary workplace skill Expensive Steep learning curve for most students and faculty Additional Mapping Tools and Examples OVI Google
22. Center for Mobile Researchand Social Change Mobile phones are playing a large role in developing world Some Examples Governance and Human Rights Education Health
43. New Jersey Environmental Narratives Introduction to Environmental Studies Reflection Location and Place PowerPoint Assignment Assignment Goals What the Environment Means to Me – The Arthur Kill
44. Public Policy Mini-Docs Introduction to Public Policy Research Policy Advocacy Assignment Goals Mini-Documentary for Public Policy
45. Video Blogging Introduction to Public Policy Replaced weekly writing assignments and oral presentations Limited success – lack of much innovation in use of the mobile v. web cam. Public Policy Student Blog
Previous GIS courses had students create maps using secondary sources of data. With the use of the mobile devices, students were required to create their own content. The effect of this primary data creation was evident in a marked improvement in student presentations regarding the spatial connections between the various water quality monitoring sites.