How Mobile Technology Can Improve Your College Life
How Mobile Technology Can Improve Your College Life
Days when lectures prepared printed presentations and handouts for their classes are about to be gone forever. At least, in those institutions where teachers understand there is no way to resist technology. According to the Pew Research Center study, 94% of young people aged 18-29 use smartphones and number of Americans using tablet computers is constantly growing. Also, the study shows that young adults rely on their smartphones for online access rather than sitting in front of their desktops. Wouldn’t it be just foolish for colleges to ignore the trends and not adapt their learning process to them?
Mobile technology brings change to education
For the last decade, mobile technology has been changing the way we receive and treat information dramatically. Availability of mobile gadgets has a huge effect on the way we learn and education in general. Let’s have a quick look at what is becoming different.
- Tablets make learning more personal and engaging. Young people enjoy the privilege to learn when they want and from the resources they like. They prefer apps which make lessons interactive and entertaining. To follow this trend, educators are also trying to include game elements to their programs.
- Feedback in real time. Multiple studies show that when students get a quick feedback, their performance tends to go up. The reason is obvious – students can apply what they’ve learned immediately.
- Learning process becomes more interactive. Instead of making students read long and boring textbooks, the most progressive educators introduce new concepts using tablets, for example, two-way interactions teaching to solve problems.
- Digital texts displace printed books. Of course, no one says modern students do not need to read. They do. But they don’t have to go to libraries since they can access the majority of texts from their mobile devices. This is convenient and easy.
How to use your cellphone for learning
Mobile devices have many functions which can make education process easier and more fun. Grab your cell phone or tablet and let’s see how well they are equipped for education purposes.
Audio recording apps
There are plenty of mobile apps which allow students to record lectures, interviews and other events on their device. Teachers can also benefit from this since they don’t have to spend their time on going over the same material again. Another way teachers can use audio recording on smartphones is to provide personal feedback to students.
Polling apps
Did you know that you can use your mobile device for live polling right there during your class? It can be useful for different projects. Teachers may also benefit from using these apps to assess students’ progress.
Video recording apps
The best content for different projects can be created by video apps on mobile phones. With videos students show a better understanding of certain topics. Plus, classes become more interesting and creative when students deliver their presentations using video content. Also, a video can serve as a great alternative to a long custom descriptive essay!
Apps to stay connected
Mobile devices allow students to connect with their classmates and teachers using a quick access to various discussion forums. Join conversations or seek help if you didn’t understand something in the class whenever you need it.
QR codes apps
Teachers can code links, diagrams and other learning materials for students’ convenience. Young people will like such an innovative approach and will respond with a better performance.
As you can see, mobile technologies give so much space for creative learning. And the benefits of using them could be impressive. It will not save your time only but also increase productivity and make students’ and teachers’ lives more interesting and effective.