Smartphones in the classroom? Yes, there are MANY educational applications!

For more about using Smartphones in the classroom, click here for an interview with Bard Williams, Ed.D. about his newest book Handheld Computers And Smartphones In Secondary Schools: A Guide To Hands-On Learning available from ISTE the International Society for Technology in Education

Expanding my Personal Learning Network using my Smartphone

I use Twitter (on my smartphone and on my laptop) as part of my PLN (Personal Learning Network) to stay abreast of what’s happening with those I follow. Of course, not everything everyone posts is earth-shattering or important or even informative, but I have found it a good way to keep “in the know” about many new developments/announcements about EdTech info.

When you set up your Twitter account you have options as to who to follow and who can follow you (I know, at first it seems a little creepy…someone following you…) but you have complete control at all times. Yes, there are spammers who will try to follow you, but you can easily block them.

Twitter will FORCE you to say whatever you want to say in 140 characters or less. What a great way to learn to be concise.

If you are using Twitter (or aren’t but perhaps considering it,) below are two very interesting links you may want to check out. BTW, Green Bay Schools is now using Twitter to update users about the latest district happenings! One of their “followers” is local TV station WFRV. What a great way to get the word out to the community!

If you’re a teacher–just think how many of your students have cell phones and access to text messaging. Twitter could be a useful tool for you to remind them about an assignment due or a test coming up or ANYTHING else!

Check out: 50 Ideas for How to Use Twitter for Business (but some great tips for educators as well):

Having trouble keeping up with everyone you’re following on Twitter? Try Twitter 100–the latest 100 posts from those you follow all in one page.

Consider Twitter–email is SO yesterday!