I read this article about using cell phones in the classroom: http://theinnovativeeducator.blogspot.com/2012/07/5-reasons-to-allow-students-to-use-cell.html
I can honestly say that before reading this, the main thing I could think of as to why a student shouldn’t use it is because they would not use it for what it is intended (playing, texting). This article took everything I thought that may be a reason and gave arguments as to why they are wrong. There is nothing I can argue with this article. She is so right! I especially like the point she made about how we are preparing students for the future, so we should allow them to use the tools they will use in the future. I think students would love being able to use their phones. They may play a little bit. But the teacher would need to monitor that and make them accountable for assignments to ensure they are on task. I also agree with the fact about budgets not allowing for some technology and teachers have a wealth of technology that could be used right in most students’ pockets. What a great way of looking at it! The only negative I can think is that some students may not have access to smart phones. They may not be able to afford it. This could lead to parents complaining that their child doesn’t have the same resources and can’t be as successful as other students. Maybe the school would have some available for student use and allow others to use their own? That would be the only tricky part I can think of. Does any part of this picture look like it isn’t educational??