This article brought up a hot topic of discussion in many local districts. Cell phones can be used for many inappropriate things and can be a distraction in a classroom, so they are commonly banned. Budget cuts have severely limited purchases of technology devices. But, school districts are required by law to ensure students are technologically literate. Why not use the cheap, hand held devices that 75% of students bring to school?
Crossing the street can be dangerous. Do we forbid students to never cross a street? No, we teach them how to do it safely and responsibly. It is no different for cell phones and internet use. In fact, one the the NET standards school districts are required to address is digital citizenship. School districts need to start having conversations about changing policy and using resources students bring with them regularly. Studies show 2/3 of kids ages 8 to 18 own cell phones- what a culture shift!
Interesting article! I wonder which group will be the most resistant to changing school cell phone policies -- teachers or parents. I thought the article did a fairly good job of describing the need to bring the community on board, but maybe didn't deal with how you get teachers there and capable of making good use of mobile devices in class.
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Cell phones, student laptops, netbooks, tablets, and the list goes on. Every district has Internet usage policies already in place (for students, teachers, clerical, administrative, etc.). And now with the Oregon Ed Tech standards (students) and NETS*T for teachers, the field is set. Elizabeth --- you'll be the go-to person for staff, administrators, etc. which will open up many doors for you! And no need to reinvent the wheel, as you know. Tons of outstanding, proven strategies, tools, and activities to draw from.
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