Handheld Learning

Nastu (2011) states in her article, “Not all that long ago, the term “mobile learning” implied laptop computers and mobile carts that were wheeled from classroom to classroom. Now, as a growing number of students carry smart phones, tablets, and other mobile devices that can connect to the internet wirelessly through a cellular as well as a Wi-Fi connection …” (no page given). This demonstrates the expansion of leaning in the classroom setting and validates the potential of it. Handheld learning is learning which because it can take place on a portable device can occur anywhere and anytime. 


QR codes are part of handheld learning as you scan them with a device and they can lead to you a webpage, send an SMS or email or give display text. They are becoming extremely popular and are commonly used in shops for price checks and can be seen on many advertisements.
Click here to see other ways in which QR codes are utilised 


Here’s an example of a QR code:

We were then designated the task of creating our own handheld learning task which Primary 6 pupils would complete. In our group there were 9 pupils and they spent around 45 minutes completing the treasure hunt around campus recording photos and videos on an iPod touch then another 45 minutes creating their videos on Book Creator on an iPad. 

To review our practice we created a poll on pollev.com to see how the children viewed their experience. The results were as follows;
80% of pupils enjoyed the activity
10% of pupils stated it was ok and
10% of pupils stated they did not enjoy it.
So overall the children seemed motivated by the task and it met the Outcome of ‘Enjoyment and Choice’ from the Curriculum. Following that we posed an open question to them, “What did you most enjoy about today?”. Two responses were, 

“I like active learning and using iPads makes learning more fun.” and

 “It is great getting to explore things and trying them out.” 

This supports Piaget’s Theory of Active learners, as cited in Pound (2008) “Learning is supported by action. Children need to experiment actively with materials and experience things in the real world to develop thought.” (p.38). As he argues that children need to be active to stimulate their thinking and learning and from my experiences I agree with this as activities which are of this type motivates pupils and results in lifelong learning.

I think this site would be useful to me in my forthcoming placement as it shows all the Apps which are suitable for young children;
http://www.appolicious.com/curated-apps/52-education-apps-for-preschoolers

References:

 

Nastu , J. (2011) Mobile learning: Not just laptops any more.

http://www.eschoolnews.com/2011/02/25/mobile-learning-not-just-laptops-any-more/

Pound, L. (2008) How Children Learn: From Montessori to Vygotsky – Educational Theories and Approaches Made Easy. London: Step Forward Publishing Ltd