Educators are starting to accept the
benefits of bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies in the classroom. At the same
time, teachers should keep in mind that mobile learning isn’t always the best way
to go.
For instance, mobile devices are great for
accessing a resource, but not really good for creating content. A report from
Educause found that students think their laptops and printers are still the most
important devices for their academic success.
At the same time, college students spend
most of their device time staying connected with their friends and family
through texting and social media, which means it’s a good idea for educators to
incorporate elements of peer interaction into the lesson plan when possible. Teachers
also need to choose wisely when using educational apps and understand students
may not actually be as tech savvy as they seem.
“Don’t
fall for the iPad or ‘app mania,’” Fran Simon, chief engagement officer for
Engagement Strategies, told eCampus News.
“Apps designed for [students] aren’t always better than what you may already
have, and that goes for mobile devices, too. Just because it’s new doesn’t mean
it’s better.”
