CELL PHONES / TEXTING
Cell phones can be a real distraction in educational settings, but they can also be a valuable learning resource for word-smart learners. Once you and your program's leadership have decided that cell phones have a place, they can be used to poll your learners, scan QR codes, or get free, real-time answers to a given question.
Word smart learners use their words to communicate. Many are using their phones on a regular basis. Using cellphones for educational projects allows these learners to continue to tap into these strengths.
Still not convinced cell phones can be a real teaching tool? Click here for ideas.
Click here for ideas about using cell phones in the classroom from FreeTech4Teachers.
And here for even more cell phone ideas from Scholastic.
Click here for ideas for texting on the first day to break the ice, or to build teams for a special project.
Cell phones can be a real distraction in educational settings, but they can also be a valuable learning resource for word-smart learners. Once you and your program's leadership have decided that cell phones have a place, they can be used to poll your learners, scan QR codes, or get free, real-time answers to a given question.
Word smart learners use their words to communicate. Many are using their phones on a regular basis. Using cellphones for educational projects allows these learners to continue to tap into these strengths.
Still not convinced cell phones can be a real teaching tool? Click here for ideas.
Click here for ideas about using cell phones in the classroom from FreeTech4Teachers.
And here for even more cell phone ideas from Scholastic.
Click here for ideas for texting on the first day to break the ice, or to build teams for a special project.
Websites for Cell phones and polling
PollEverywhere
http://www.polleverywhere.com/ PollEverywhere is live, real-time response voting with any kind of cellphone or smartphone. It can be used to get feedback on a topic, survey the group, grade an in-class quiz, and more. It's free for groups of 40 or less. (If learners don't have a text plan on their cell phone, they can respond on the computer.) |
Cel.ly
www.cel.ly This website creates a mobile group network called a "cell." Messages and polls that are sent to a cell are forwarded by Celly to the specified cell members. In this way, Celly users can communicate and collaborate as a group in real time using text messages. Also, from the Cel.ly website, learners and teachers can send and receive cell messages, polls, and access other Celly features. Celly works with any regular phone that has texting, or from any computer, tablet, or smartphone. |
Classtools SMS Generator
http://www.classtools.net/SMS/ This tool is used for creating fictional text message exchanges between fictional and or historical characters. Your learner can make the text exchange as long as desired. This exchange can then be shared with others. The Classtools SMS Generator is free to use and does not require a log-in. |