The "Hair Raiser" - Mobile Phones

The most “hair raising” session I have attended was one involving the use of mobile phones. I went on an outdoor adventure and learned how to use QR Codes and Google My Maps to create an engaging, authentic learning experience. I was surprised at how easy it was and it made me realize that I was fearful of the use of mobile phones in a school setting because I had not seen how they could be used in a meaningful and impactful way. The exercise was collaborative, creative and fun. I also learned how to use Poll Everywhere, a web-based feedback tool, where users can text in their responses via a mobile phone, in a clicker type fashion. I have already incorporated Poll Everywhere into my Advisory letter and have asked the 8th graders to respond to a Poll Everywhere survey via text or computer prior to the first day of school. I also anticipate using QR Codes at school with my Advisory group and I would like to talk with Jeff Escabar about how we might use QR Codes on an admissions tour. The outdoor learning adventure session challenged many of my assumptions about mobile phones.