Extension of the computer centre – mobile devices in the classroom Dr Nellie de Crom Dr Annette de Jager

Introduction   Bill Gates (1995): “In a mobile society people need to be able to work efficiently while on the road. Notebooks are the smallest and most portable real computers today (1995), but soon there will be pocket- size computers with snapshot-size color screens”. (2006)   OBE in South Africa – –What is it? – –Outcomes? – –How does technology fit in?

To learn…   Educator   Learners   Content   Medium   Interaction

The computer centre   Purpose   Usage, functioning   Logistics   What happens afterwards?

The classroom – extension of the computer centre   Traditional chalk-and-talk methods – learners became bored   Learners used computer lab – limited exposure due to various constraints   Took computers (PDAs, cell phones, cameras) to classroom – extend computer lab   Application of knowledge and skills in all learning areas…

…How?   Outcomes based   Interactive groups or individuals   Examples of how and what…

1. Tasks on PDA   Groups (4-6) with role division   Individual learners or twos   How to prepare, assign and obtain a task   What to do with the task (supported by technology): – –Get problem and analyse – –Gather info – various methods and sources – –Synthesis of data and evaluate information – –Compile report on PDA/computer transfer – –Presentation – –Assessment and comments

2. Video clips and PPTs on PDA   What is the purpose?   How to get video and PPT on PDAs   How do learners use videos and PPTs?   Practical examples   Results of use

3. Tests and assessment on PDA   Test programmes for PDAs   Security   Setting and evaluating tests   Assessments on PDAs: – –Peer assessment of data, documents – –Peer assessment of presentations – –Peer assessment of reports – –Educator’s role – –Practical examples

4. Psychological aspects   Traditional classroom reactions on “thoughts” questions   PDA-results: – – 100% participation – – educator learn about problems – – openness about pressing issues – – personal comments, ideas, opinions – – boost self-confidence

Advantages of extended computer centre   Costs   Versatility and easy use   For the learner: – –CCFOs – –Skills development – –Group dynamics – –Self-confidence and leadership – –Creativity and motivation   For the educator: – –CCFOs – –Skills enhancement – –Stimulating education – –Time and cost effective – –Cooperative group work (colleagues and learners) – –Personal growth and empowerment