(By Alice Martin)
Looking at the recent advancement in computer and technology, the education system seems more organised and systemic than ever. Considering this aspect, one can easily predict a more technology-based classroom environment that will benefit both the teachers and students in future. Tablets and Smartphones have reinforced this ideology further by introducing new ideas and concepts in the traditional ways of schooling. Now students can learn in a more flexible and self-paced environment without any hurdles with resources – time, people, space and money. This has resulted in an efficient and faster way to learn and grow within a particular field of study. Here I will inform you about some important benefits that you can avail using Tablets, Smartphones and other mobile devices in the classroom. Here they are:
Mobility
Smartphones are compact gadgets that offer learning on the go. Inside a classroom, teachers can use these machines to demonstrate points, present information through projectors or even conduct lectures through video conference. This eventually facilitates students with learning process as they can attend lessons, participate in class activities or even take notes without the constraints of space and time. Similarly, these tools can help students communicate on lessons or queries while they are away from the classroom. For example, a Smartphone can come handy for a student to participate in several classroom activities through Skype while he cannot physically attend the classroom.
Versatility
Tablets and Smartphones are machines that can be used for various purposes by students. They are handy tools for studying online, taking notes, and even attending real-time classroom activities. Similarly, they can be used for multitasking. Learning tools like dictionary, calculator and periodic provide handy support to students in various learning activities. Also, Smartphone has built-in educational applications that further enhance the learning experience. In an android-based operating system, you can use MS Office tool to create, modify or delete any documents while a Picasa tool can be used to save important images for projects. This promotes efficient learning by speeding up the whole learning process.
Noise-Free
Unlike a PC, an iPad and Smartphone provide noise-free learning environment. Since these devices offer touch-screen option, there is no need to connect keyboard or mouse. This results in a learning environment which reduces noise and increases focus in a classroom.
Interactivity
Learning through audio/video mediums improves the overall learning experience. Besides, it helps students learn in an interactive way. Both Tablet and Smartphone are rich sources of audio/visual tools, such as charts, graphs and images. With these visual elements, learning experience becomes more engaging and fun for the students that ultimately promote them to learn and grow.
Additionally, a Tablet and Smartphone is an effective tool when it comes to learning different activities of a task. Both of these gizmos can be used for sharing ‘how to’ videos and animation. For example, teachers can use 3D simulation to demonstrate ‘dead areas’ under sea-level for a class on Marine Biology or students can visit an archaeological site through a video-sharing website for studying Ancient Civilization. Similarly, a Science teacher can perform a live lab experiment while students watch it in their classes.
Flexibility
Using various Apps allow students to learn in an adaptable environment. Using Start Walk, students of science studies can now watch live activities in the galaxies or perform a chemical reaction using a ReactionMate, an app in the iPhone. So students can now avail from a more flexible and adaptable way of learning.
Social Media Networking
Tablets and Smartphones are effective tools to communicate through social-media websites. They allow students to interact with fellow students and share knowledge, news and videos regarding a project. Using social media platforms also allows students to instantly get answers or feedback from their teachers, seniors or fellow students for any issues. With popular social media websites, such as Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest, students are exposed to a more diversified form of knowledge.
