While the debate on banning of mobiles in schools is raging it is refreshing to hear of a school that is using the mobile as a teaching device and teach proper use of the device at the same time. As the mobiles becomes smarter they will become affordable alternatives to computers.
(See http://www.usatoday.com/news/education/2009-07-27-cellphoneschool_N.htm?csp=34)
While schools have long been wary of students using smart phones in classrooms, arguing the device can distract and facilitate cheating, some districts are using the technology as a learning tool. St. Mary’s, Ohio, for example, launched a pilot program that loans elementary students PDAs to draw pictures, use flashcard software for spelling and math, write essays, and perform various other tasks using specialized, educational applications. The idea is to leverage the strengths of these devices while also teaching students responsible use of a technology platform that is here to stay.