The Value of Mobile Technology in Teaching & Learning

Mobile technology is here to stay and the way in which we are using it is changing rapidly, Ofcom's Communications Market Report 2014, states that the number of households owning a tablet computer, has almost doubled in a year, from 24% in Q1 2013 to 44% in the same period of 2014. Ofcom's research also found that 61% of adults now claim to own a Smartphone. (OFCOM 2014)

I guess these statistics are not surprising when you consider the number of mobile devices that will be on Christmas lists this year. So with mobile devices becoming so commonplace, it makes sense to consider how they can be utilised in Teaching and Learning.

For a tool to be effective it has to be used in a way which makes it relevant to the subject, this includes technology. Technology should be used to enhance teaching and learning not just for the sake of using technology. Schools are beginning to invest heavily in 1:1 technology and some interesting studies have been carried out into how this can best be utilised to improve the skills of pupils and teachers.

In 2012 the Department for Education carried out a study on 15 schools in the UK, whilst it was a relatively small study, it did produce some very encouraging results about how schools are beginning to embrace mobile technology. The findings revealed that the schools had a long term strategic vision on the role of technology, ensuring that support was on hand for teachers and students in the form of a dedicated technology leader and the whole ethos was endorsed and led by the Headteacher.
The study found that mobile technology proved very useful in collaborative learning as well as encouraging independent learning. The use of 1:1 technology provided improved opportunities for instant feedback by teachers and peers and online discussion groups and forums improved students work.
The teachers felt that the use of this technology helped to motivate learners but also removed some barriers to learning for some of the more disaffected students and students with special needs, allowing them to participate more in lessons. Students with speech and communication disorders found that effective use of mobile technology assisted them greatly. Click here for D of E report
The report into this study admitted that the 15 secondary schools were chosen because they were known to make effective use of technology to enhance teaching and learning. With any technology there is a cost implication and the challenge for schools, educational institutions and the respective authorities responsible for education in the UK, is to find a way to make this technology accessible and affordable, so that all students and teachers can take advantage of the opportunities that mobile technology provides.

It is inconceivable that in the 21st century mobile technology would not play a part in learning, after all we are living in an age where the workforce of today need to be equipped with 21st century skills. The key is how we utilise this technology effectively to enhance learning and improve our skills.

Report on Edinburgh 1:1 Mobile Evaluation, 2012-2013 conducted by Dr Kevin Burden and Dr Trevor Male (University of Hull Faculty of Education)