Handhelds R Ann

Ann Scates
“Using Handheld Technology in Schools”

I am in the process of writing a proposal for the purchase of a set of handhelds for my school. This article has given me much information that I can use in the proposal.
In the article there is a section about the Educational Concerns in using handhelds in the classroom. While reading this section, I came to the realization that these concerns can be put to rest with a set plan and rules for students and teachers in the use of the handhelds. This section has forewarned me to be for-armed to have a plan before the handhelds are introduced to the school community.
I was shocked to read about the results that 50% of 6000 teachers surveyed reported that their students spend only 15 minutes a week with technology. It also amazed me that the same teachers reported that they have one or no computers in their classrooms. This situation must be rectified so that all our students throughout the United States can be ready of the work force of the 21st century.
The educational advantages far out weigh the disadvantages. The cost of a handheld is so much less than a desk top computer. Yes, you cannot do as much on a handheld. However, they can be synched to a desktop, information can be downloaded when needed, and students can complete their work on the desktop.
In my school, it is very important that students can use the computers in all areas of the school and outside. The handhelds are very mobile and can be used on field trips and in areas of the school where a computer lab cannot go.
The section titled 101 Great Educational Uses for Your Handheld Computer is a wonderful resource to use when trying to convince other educators of the importance of handhelds and their educational possibilities. It would be great to have this list on your wall of your classroom and check off the uses as you teach them to your students.
In the article, they mention the mobility of the handhelds and the ease for teachers to carry them from place to place to keep notes about students and to use for assessment. They point out that many pieces of women’s clothing do not contain pockets or belts in which to carry the handhelds. Their answer for this problem is for female teachers to use alternatives such as small shoulder bags or special lanyards. I had not thought of this.
Systematic and thorough training is mentioned often throughout the article. They also suggest that teachers be trained first, before the handhelds are put in the hands of the students. I think this is very important so that the teachers do not feel uncomfortable with the technology or with helping students with new applications or troubleshooting.
I was amazed at all the software that is available to users of handhelds. When I started this class, I assumed that there were limited uses for these computers. This article provided me with many new ideas and a list of software that I did not know existed. I look forward to using them in my teaching and my own learning.
When I first started using the eBook to read the above article, I was skeptical because of the size of the print and the set up of the book. I did not like the fact that I could not hold a book in my hand and flip back and forth to pages. I also had problems using the note taking application. However, I am sure this will become easier with more use.
eBooks would be wonderful to use while on a trip. I love to read and often take books when traveling. This practice often creates extra weight in luggage and carry on bags. Having the access to e Books on my handheld would make traveling less taxing.
Students that are not really interested in reading might be more interested if their books were on handhelds. I know of some students who would love to read if they could do it on a handheld. I also have students who would be more willing to complete work if they were given the opportunity to use handhelds in some aspect of the assignment.
This article has given me some excellent arguments to use to convince others that handhelds can and should be a part of our educational setting. I look forward to presenting what I learned to others.