Friday, August 13, 2010

Mobile phones set to become portable teachers


A pilot study at Howick College is examining the result of using mobile phones as a teaching aid.
The "mLearning" pilot at Howick College, which sees students use free software to convert computer files into cell phone study notes, is attracting global attention.
Students can solve a question using PowerPoint, or a video assignment to film and edit through Microsoft's MovieMaker.
The result is condensed into a format that can be transferred on to any cell phone with a media player.
"The kids love it because they have it in their pocket – it''s a psychological thing as well as a study thing because they know that help is, literally, a click away," Stuff.co.nz quoted Howick College teacher Nathan Kerr, as saying.
Kerr’s innovative method allows students to search Google for a free video converter or convert PowerPoint presentations via WonderShare freeware to get content on their phones.
“We''re a lot more innovative and part of the reason is many teachers in New Zealand are given a free hand, with guidelines, while overseas your professional development as a teacher has been worked out by experts – it''s top down," added Kerr.
Waikato University education lecturer Noeline Wright said that because children are already very comfortable using these tools, it’s a good idea implementing it in their education too.

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