Do cell phones,keep the prof/teacher on top of the subject matter?
I have lectured my students on various curriculum subject issues. it's so funny because some one will respond & say...Wow Prof, you are correct. I let them know that I am correct. But I am always amazed that they can locate the information FAST. So I have found that prof/teachers can NOT make any errors...if we do the students will let us know & FAST too.
I've had the same experience. But it presents a bit of a dilemma: how does an instructor discern whether a student using his/her handheld device is using it on-topic or engaging in an unrelated social dialogue with a friend (not permitted during formal class time)?
Hi Dale,
First off, I have small classes so this approach works for me. When I'm presenting information in the form of a lecture and I notice a student using their cell phone I will immediate expect the use for class purposes and request the information found and the URL so I may share it with the class. Due to my small class sizes I'm able to walk around and observe their behavior (cell phone, laptop, tablet).
Yes they can if you have internet access. I use my cell phone at times outside of class
I find it best to always admit when I don't know something and to ask the students to look it up on their phones. It makes them trust me a bit more because I'm honest with them, and it also gives them a chance to engage, and often brings them back if their attention has been wavering.
Benjamin,
this technique can be effective when used in moderation as it does build that credibility & as you point out also helps engage them in the learning.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I agree with this sentiment. Being honest about not knowing something here and there works towards your integrity but doing it too often makes you lose credibility as an instructor.
Great response! I have had to take almost extreme measures with the use and over use of hand held devices. Asking a student to look up information during class could quickly turn into a millstone around ones neck... but to instill a level of trust ask the student to look up the information and write the address on the board will insure personal responsibility. In saying all of this I appreciate the different views and I will use some to further engage the students! Thank you
Julia,
this is a great idea to keep that accountability & still show the students the value of the technology that is available.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Benjamin,
I do something similar, I allow the students to research on their smart phones as I'm lecturing a subject. They seem involved, engaged with the lecture, and to make sure they are doing what I asked to research, I ask them for feedbacks. That makes sure they are on task.
Karla ,
this can also be a good way to point out some of the bad "research" or information that is out there. They may find something about your topic & you can show from your knowledge & other professionals how this is not true or maybe it is true.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I've experienced this as well. There seems to be less of a tendency then there was when I was a student to just accept what the instructor is saying and more instant checking. I find it helps solidify what I say when a student finds immediate corroboration for my statements.
I find that them checking up on what I have lectured seems more disrespectful. Yes I agree that students should learn how to research and use technology wisely but if I am in front of you there should be no cellphones. I will also have to wonder why they are checking up on me, do they want to discredit me or do they not trust me as an instructor. Personally, cellphones pose more of a distraction to me and to students.
Walking around the class during lecture is a good way to keep students focused on the lecture. Walking also helps me see who's taking notes or on Facebook. I like to show students that the smart phone can be right and wrong. Wiki answers are not always 100% right and showing how to further research the question challenges the student.
