Web 2.0 and Mobile Learning

There are several ways in which Web 2.0 and mobile learning have impacted, and continue to alter, the way in which we teach and learn. Web 2.0 references “Web sites that allow users to modify Web site content, provide a means for users to share personal information, and have application software built into the site for visitors to use” (Shelly, Gunter & Gunter, 2012, p. 68). Mobile learning “incorporates the most efficient, lightweight, portable devices such as smartphones or tablet computers” (Shelly et al., 2012, p. 309).

The tools that fit the Web 2.0 definition includes, but is not limited to:

·         Blogs

·         Wikis

·         Social Bookmarks

·         Social Networks

·         Video Sharing

·         Web Applications

·         Podcasts

The combination of these tools and mobile devices enables learners of today’s generation an unlimited range of resources. Due to the wide range of on-line, mobile, educational resources there are two growing trends occurring in the K-12 sector of education. The first is that of Bring your own device (BYOD). This trend is probably the most efficient for schools to have a 1:1 student to computer ratio. The other trend is that of districts incorporating on-line courses. The availability of courses on-line allows learners to enroll in classes that may not otherwise be available due to facility, faculty, and funding constraints.

There has already been a change in the way educators teach, and the ways today’s learners learn due to the use of some of the Web 2.o tools being utilized in traditional classrooms. Hopefully, the trend will continue to include more educators incorporating these tools within their daily lessons as professional development opportunities become available. Technology in the classroom will not go away, so the apprehensive educator needs to embrace it now.

One of the reasons that some of these apprehensive educators may not already be incorporating Web 2.o technologies within their teaching is the lack of availability in their building. Budget cuts have prevented districts from upgrades and additions to their technology departments, but there is a solution. BYOD programs can keep devices in the hands of students that are more up to date than the devices that schools would otherwise be able to offer.

Another reason for not utilizing technology in lessons is the fear factor. Technology is moving so quickly that some educators simply aren’t comfortable using the new equipment or programs. With a BYOD program, teachers wouldn’t be expected to know each type of device, which would leave them time to learn about programs and apps that are applicable to their grade level or subject area. Districts would need to offer professional development opportunities for the programs and apps that are available and suitable for classroom teachers.

In my opinion mobile devices are here to stay, so educators may as well figure out to build curricular areas around them. There are definitely some apps may become obsolete, but others are so beneficial and so timeless that they will continue to be updated and used by our students.  Tablets and Smartphones have been a daily part of the lives of the youth that we teach; therefore, we are responsible for teaching them to use them responsibly and to the greatest of their academic ability.

Devaney, L. (2011). Bring your own device catching on in schools. eSchool News. Retrieved from http://www.eschoolnews.com/2011/04/29/bring-your-own-device-catching-on-in-schools/

Hahn, K. (2011). Byod or bring your own device. DYKnow. Retrieved from http://www.dyknow.com/one-to-one-computing/byod-or-bring-your-own-device/

McCrea, B. (2012). 5 k-12 e-learning trends. THE Journal. Retrieved from http://thejournal.com/Articles/2012/02/02/5-K12-E-Learning-Trends.aspx?Page=1

Shelly, G., Gunter, G., & Gunter, R. (2012). Teachers discovering computers: integrating technology in a connected world (7^th ed.). Boston, MA: Course Technology.