Recently, whilst working on a project together with college students. I further realised what an important versatile inclusive learning asset the mobile phone can be.
The aim of the project was to use available technology to simulate military surveillance techniques. The successful simulation was achieved almost cost free. The students successful simulation encompassed the Google Earth and Latitude programme's, in conjunction with the college IT system and the learner's personal mobile phones.
The simulation gave the learners an insight into global positioning techniques. The students demonstrated that they could use technology to safely track teams, who were walking in an open area approximately one mile from the classroom. The tracking was displayed on the college computer and smart board system.
The view could be changed from conventional maps to satellite pictures, to suit either the terrain or operator. As the learners had downloaded the mapping software to their mobile phones. In future they will be able to practice and further advance their skills, whilst they are engaged in future college activities and for personal use.
Perhaps now is the time for education/teachers, to explore and evaluate further ways of utilising mobile communications technology as learning resource.
Restricting the use of a student's mobile, can become a barrier to learning !
If students and tutors agree to a code of conduct with regard to acceptable use of the mobile phone. It may not always be necessary to challenge students to turn off their mobile phone at the start of a lesson.
(For additional information on mobile phones see blog 7)
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