Blog Post 2: Handheld Devices

Locate an article about using handheld devices such as tablets (ie. ipads,nook), cell phones, and ipods for education. Summarize 3 keypoints from the article. Next, describe how you would use these devices in the library. Don't forget to include a reference for the article at the end of your post.

   I found an online article entitled "How tablets are invading the classroom" that discussed the increased use of tablets vs.other technology in the classroom.  Here are some of the keypoints:

1.  Tablets are beginning to replace PCs in the classroom due in large part to the fact that they are more cost effective.
2.  Other countries such as Scotland are also investing in tablets for students of all ages.  The trend has spread worldwide and continues to grow.
3.  The author was hesitant to whole-heartedly embrace tablets as "the answer for education."  He points out cons, such as "device management" and "cost," (Hill, 2012).

    I can imagine using tablets in the library in a few different ways.  First, students could access the library catalog through tablets instead of on a PC.  This would enable more students to be served quicker, since it would be cheaper to have more tablets available than PCs.  Also, students could use tablets to demonstrate their understanding of books.  Teachers or librarians could create tests to be accessed through the tablet or students could complete projects using Web 2.0 tools to demonstrate knowledge.  Finally, younger learners who are just beginning to read and write could use the tablets to play games that further their understanding of literacy concepts.  These games could be extensions of read alouds or previews of future books.


Sources
http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/tablets-invading-the-classroom/