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Thursday, June 14, 2012

My research takes an unexpected turn - WEEK 2

One thing that I am finding out after reading all the assignments, is that you cannot stay too long on a subject without it changing.  For me, my topic changed completely after meeting with my site supervisor.  We decided that while the idea was great, and needed, to focus on the community for my first action research topic might be a little broad an big for me. 

After more discussion, I decided to go with the question: Can approved student Smartphone use be beneficial to students and teachers in today's school systems?

I believe that schools and teachers spend too much time fighting the battle of cell phones. I am not suggesting complete freedom of cell phone use in class. I am suggesting that we may better utilize a technology that IS NOT GOING AWAY, and will only become more entrenched in our students’ lives. What if it was possible for students to work together in your class, using the tools available (apps, programs, email) on their phones? How much time or energy can be saved by re-directing the student use of cell phones (discipline, classroom disruptions/management)?

I am hoping my research outcome may start to change the views of teachers and administrators in our district, and beyond. I am aware of the pushback I may receive from fellow faculty - but the number one fact is these devices are here to stay, and are used in our classes whether we like it or not. Also - Texas education needs to be able to meet more standards with fewer resources (budget cuts). We are also ranked one of the worst states in public education. The status quo is NOT working anymore. We have to find new and innovative ways to reach these students, and a fancy PowerPoint and Smartboards are not getting the job done.


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