Under-utilized mobile devices

MOBILE PHONES: UNDERUTILIZED PEDAGOGICAL DEVICES

Using Mobile Phones in a Language Class Effectively

Pir Suhail SarhandiELI, King Abdul Aziz University, Saudi ArabiaEmail: ssarhandi@yahoo.comSkype: pirsuhailahmedTwitter: SarhandiSuhail

What is M-Learning?

The use of mobile devices in learning is Mobile-learning. According to different researchers:

" Mobile learning is any sort of learning that happens when the learner is not at a fixed, predetermined location or learning that happens when the learner takes advantage of the learning opportunities offered by mobile technologies." (O'Maley 2003)

"M-learning is the acquisition of any knowledge and skill through using mobile technology, anywhere, anytime, that results in an alteration in behavior." (Geddes 2004)

" Mobile learning is any educational provision where the sole or dominant technologies are hand-held or palmtop devices." ( John Traxler 2005)

M-learning = learning on the move.

playing games

chatting with family and friends

texting messages

downloading pictures , music and videos

What changes mobile has brought!

Mobile in………….. Wrist watch outMobile in………….. Radio outMobile in …………. Stereo outMobile in………….. Letter outMobile in …………. Calendar outMobile in…………...Camera outMobile in …………. Calculator outMobile in …………. Computer out

Mobile phone as a learning tool.

Under-utilized tool

Mobile phones as motivational tools

New opportunities for engaging learners

Brings real world facilities into a limited classroom.

Anxiety interferes with second language acquisition. ( Krashen 1982)

Mobile phone as a pedagogical tool.

Mobile phone is not an standalone tool in the classroom. ( Prensky 2003, Sharples 2009)Some of the pedagogical uses of mobile phones:

How to use mobile phones as a pedagogical tool?

It is never too late to learn.

Using a simple GSM mobile phone:

How to use mobile phones as a pedagogical tool?

Change doesn’t happen over-night.

Using internet-enabled cell phones:

Problematizing Mobile Learning

Conclusion

I think it is important to be familiar with the new resources that are available and to challenge teaching-learning myths and prejudices.

Learning is maximized when a variety of resources are used.

Mobile phone as a learning tool can contribute to a more holistic approach to learning, combined with visual , kinesthetic and tactile learning style.

Momentum gathers for a reason and can be hard to slow.

Feel free to write me your comments and suggestions

Learning means being open to what comes, relating to it, and becoming different in its presence. (Caleb Gattegno)