Mobile Phone Wiki

E Learning Blog Reflection Week 2

Group 3 of the mobile phone wiki, discussed ’Should mobile phones be used in the classroom?’ Amongst the six de Bono’s thinking hats there was group discussion. After reading my group's forum it is clear that the two learning theories, connectivism and constructivism have been utilised.  A relationship was demonstrated between mobile phones, their applications and internet usage and whether it has a positive or negative effect on the classroom dynamics. By making a contribution in this wiki, the concept of ‘connectivism’ is in play. Connectivism is described as the process of learning through the internet and computers (A Brief Overview of Learning Theory, 2013). By contributing and researching information to the wiki we have actively utilised the concept of ‘connectivism’. The second learning theory touched upon was ‘constructivism’.  By actively contributing to the content of the wiki, the group have utilised the learning theory of social constructivism. Social constructivism is gaining knowledge in a social atmosphere, with social interactions and experiences (A Brief Overview of Learning Theory, 2013). This has been executed by discussing a topic over a wiki where the group can interact and express our own opinions. Through exploration into the theory behind these two learning concepts it is clear that they both could potentially play a big part in the future of education.

This wiki has allowed me to learn and develop my knowledge regarding the six thinking hats. It was also great to listen and view what my peers opinions were on this subject. I believe technology, in particular the use of mobile phones in the classroom, has a big role to play in the future of education. Due to the creation of the Smart Phone and its many advanced technical capabilities, teachers have the ability to add another dynamic to the classroom.   

Participating in a wiki that focused on the six thinking hat scaffold allowed the group to debate the topic raised and explore the solutions. Debating topics in groups, leads to student interaction and involvement, which generates new ideas and communication skills that can benefit the students involved. The scaffold (the six thinking hats) used in this wiki was comprehensive, easy to read and understand. The negative aspects that I noticed about the design of this wiki was that if we all expressed similar views in certain thinking hats discussion would be limited. In some cases, there was repetition of opinions. This could consequence in some students not participating in the activity.   

This resource is a great learning tool and would positively contribute and benefit students and teachers in the classroom. This resource would improve the student’s communication and social skills, problem solving and group dynamics. Utilising modern technology engages students as utilising listening as well as consolidating learning by a physical skill, which is using the computer. The six thinking hats wiki was effective as a learning tool, easy to use and allowed knowledge and skill acquisition.

Participation in this wiki was challenging but exciting.

James Sherry           

 

Reference

A Brief Overview of Learning Theory. (2013). Central Queensland University. Retrieved from http://moodle.cqu.edu.au/mod/page/view.php?id=88322