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Can Cellphones Be Educational Tools?
Technological advancements have contributed to the widespread use of cell phones. Over the years, people have adopted the use of mobile phones to execute specific tasks. The discovery of Smartphones has transformed the access to sources of knowledge in diverse fields. It is possible to retrieve large volumes of information from the Internet. One of the areas where cellphones have had significant impact is the education sector. Mobile devices have provided many opportunities for learning. The use of these devices coupled with modern technology has replaced the traditional ways of learning. Cellphones have proved to be essential tools in the classroom. As educational tools, mobile phones can be used in a variety of ways.
One of the ways in which cellphones act as educational tools is by connecting students to the resources they need. Phones are useful in the classroom since students can use them to capture pictures, especially for courses involving visuals. Moreover, it is possible for learners to take a video their teachers demonstrating concepts. Students can later refer to these records during their studies. Teachers can utilize phones to keep the students engaged. For instance, some websites allow students to take part in interactive activities where they answer questions related to the course contents. Cellphones also enable students to access information from websites. Learners can conduct research about their respective subjects by browsing the Internet, which has a lot of resourceful data (Zaphiris and Loannou 305).
Cellphones can also work as educational tools by enhancing access by students who are unable to attend classes physically. In the recent past, online classrooms have become common. Learners who cannot manage to pursue their education through the traditional setting may opt to study at the comfort of their homes. This is mostly the case for individuals who are studying and at the same time working. For such students, it is possible to pursue studies based on their schedule. Since mobile phones are portable, learners do not necessarily need to be present in the classroom or learning institution. Rather, they can access the class materials and complete assignments while at home. Besides, there is increased access for students in remote areas (Tynan, Willems, and James 115).
The third way in which mobile phones act as educational tools is through facilitating discussion forums. Teachers and students alike can make use of some features in Smartphones such as ‘chat’ to initiate an online discussion. This encourages students to participate in topics even after classes. As a result, their understanding of concepts is enhanced since they engage in thorough discussions. Learners can tackle a topic with or without the help of their teacher. Students can also form discussion groups and contribute towards class work assigned to them by the teacher. Further, teachers can code links; this enables learners to access further resources and solutions to tasks covered in the classroom (Mallia 86).
In conclusion, it is worth noting that the advent of cellphones has significantly changed the education sector. Students and teachers consider mobile phones as essential learning tools, both inside and outside the classroom setting. Access to important education materials is done using cellphones. Students can get a lot of information regarding their course content by conducting a Google search. In addition, there is ease of access for students who cannot manage to visit the classroom or their respective learning institutions. Online classes have enabled learners in rural areas to attend classes while at home. Mobile phones have also enabled students to have efficient class discussions.
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