Should students be allowed to use cell phones in the classroom?

I pose the question about student cellphone use in the classroom because I had the wonderful opportunity to listen to Liz Kolb and her presentation “cellphones in the classroom as learning tools” at www.live.classroom20.com

I know some peoples reactions are strong about not allowing students to bring their cellphones into class. Many school boards have policies prohibiting students from using their phones at school. At one time I totally supported the notion that cellphones did not have a place in the classroom as they are an interference and a distraction that teachers should not have to manage. I have been softening to the idea after listening to teachers in my PLN but after listening to Liz I am convinced there is a role for cellphones in the classroom.

Liz is currently a doctoral student at the University of Michigan studying Learning Technologies, an adjunct Professor at Madonna University, former high school teacher and technology coordinator. She has authored a book called Toys to Tools: Connecting Student Cell Phones to Classroom Instruction. I have a link set up for you to go directly to amazon to purchase your own copy.

I’d like to review some key points I took away from the live.classroom20.com show.
First some Interesting data.

71% of US population have Internet access at home
55% have broadband
84% of U.S. population own cell phones

Yankee Group predictes by 2010 54% of 8 year olds will have their own cell phone!

the average 13-17 year old sends more than 2,000 text messages per month

Liz identifies these practical applications for cellphones:

In Asia, India, & Africa a student can

• take entire courses via cell phone (including dance & art)
• write and read novels via mobile devices.
• use text messaging for homework, quizzes, and communicating with their instructors.

Examples of using cellphones in the classrom: Mobile Podcasting Projects: Field Trip; Radio Live; Radio Theatre: Note taking and organization.