I need to get organized. I am definitely considering this…
Handhelds in the Classroom – Tools for Teachers
By Cyndi Pride
August 1, 2003
URL: http://www.techlearning.com/showArticle.php?articleID=12803444
A handheld may also be called a handheld computer, handheld PC, pocket PC, or a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant). People sometimes refer to them by the manufacturer’s name: Palm or Handspring. With most handhelds, users input information with a stylus or a separate keyboard, although a few models have begun to include a thumb-pad keyboard. Generally handhelds use the Palm OS (Palm Operating System) or a Pocket PC version of Windows.
Handhelds are popular because of their portability; however, other features make them invaluable tools. Handhelds can sync (synchronize) data with a desktop computer and share data with other users through infrared ports. Many of them can connect to the Internet wirelessly or through a modem to enable users to pull down information from the Internet or access email. Some models have expansion slots for additional memory or for peripheral equipment, such as digital cameras and scientific probes. Handhelds come with a basic software package, which typically includes “business” applications such as a date book, memo pad, to-do list and address books. The Pocket PC platform has a special version of MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint that sync with desktop computers. Palm Pilots now come with Documents To Go, which also permits users to easily move documents from handheld to computer or back. Additional software titles are available for both operating systems, although there are many more titles for Palm OS. Users can access software that enables them to download and read books, keep track of student grades and make diagrams. Software developers are beginning to recognize the value of this tool in education and are beginning to develop additional applications to help administrators, teachers and students.
Handhelds for Teachers
In the spring of 2001 a group of Beaufort County School District teachers had the opportunity to use handhelds to assist in data collection and management of student learning. The teachers explored assessment strategies and experimented or invented ways in which to use the handheld as a tool. At the end of the school year one teacher commented, “I don’t know what I would do without the Palm. The Palm allows me to walk around, monitor and record what I am seeing. This freedom of movement allows me to be a better record keeper, better assessor; and hopefully, a better teacher.” Teachers also commented that using the Palm to record observations of student behaviors provided them with a comprehensive picture of learning, yielding formative data that was useful in guiding the development of lessons and activities. Teachers liked having all of their information in one place and appreciated having a tool that they could take anywhere to record or access student information.
In addition to the generally accepted use of each of the basic Palm applications, teachers found creative ways to take advantage of the technology.
