The use of mobile technology has opened up a whole new world in education. Terms like BYOD (bring your own device) are a commonplace occurrence. These devices have allowed educators and students to learn, teach, and study in a whole new way. Learning is no longer limited to the classroom and can occur in real-time almost anywhere. Following are my favorite sites, listed alphabetically, that help learners use mobile phones for educational purposes.
- Audioboo - A great site with mobile apps for all platforms, for recording one's voice and then embedding it into a site/blog.
- Cel.ly - Instant mobile network for connecting people and tracking topics. Also, a great way to manage cell phones from a web environment.
- ClassPager - CP takes the classroom "clicker" to the next level through the use of text messaging, polling, Q/A, and the ability to update students/parents at any time.
- ClassParrot - A safe and simple way to text students. This is a great way to send class reminders, updates, and allow for parents to receive texts too.
- gText - A great site for free group texting. A user can send texts, files, photos, and more.
- SnappSchool - This is a great site to engage parents for free with SS messenger. Also, a user can send class-wide updates by text message or email straight from their phone.
- StudyBlue - A great way to study online flashcards, quizzes, or study guides. Also, there is a free mobile app for SB for all platforms.
- StudyBoost - A great way to study on a cell phone through text messaging and SMS.
- TXTNLRN - A innovative site for teaching and learning through text messaging. Everything associated with this site, such as signing up for a class, is all done through the use of texting.
- Wiffiti - This is a great site that allows users from a cell phone to send texts to a display or screen. A new version with more features is coming soon.
David Kapuler is an educational consultant with more than 10 years of experience working in the K-12 environment. For more information about his work, contact him at dkapuler@gmail.com and read his blog at cyber-kap.blogspot.com.
