Outboard brains for teachers
Tuesday, June 7, 2011 at 05:53AM I am personally a tech laggard and rather proud of it. But I wish I had gotten on the iPhone* bandwagon a little earlier. It seems that not a week goes by that a new app or use doesn't present itself that some how improves my "outboard brain" and my make my life a little richer somehow.
In preparation for a week-long bike trip next month, I've been trying to log some miles on the old Cannondale. A quick search of the app store showed, as the now cliched phrase puts it, "there's an app for that." More accurately, a whole bunch of apps for that.
Being the discriminating consumer that I am, I picked the first app in the seach list and shelled out a whole $1.99 for iMapMyRide. Other than the really annoying voice that tells you your speed and other stats ad nauseum (but can be easily gagged), the app is simple and, sort of amazing, using GPS to do what a regular bike computer will do, plus store your stats, create a map that includes elevations (how does it do that?), and zips details of your workout to Twitter and Facebook and e-mails all your increasingly-annoyed soon-to-be-ex-friends.
Here's my question: If all teachers were supplied with an iPhone or similar device, might they become more sympathetic about their students using them in class? As they themselves experience the advantages of an outboard brain that links, stores, and communicates information immediately, constantly and ubiquitously, might they become more empathetic to kids who find bans on such devices unreasonable?
I've long said that you can't teach with a device or a program that you yourself do not find personally empowering. Are smartphones any different?
* I'm sure the same would hold true had I an Android phone.
Reader Comments (8)
Are you riding in RAGBRAI??
Hi Val,
No, I'm doing Bike Northwoods Loop in WIsconsin. Link works in entry above.
Doug
I need to break down and get me one of those doohickeys, I suppose.
Yes, yes and maybe yes - one of the things I would like schools and administrators to understand is that we tech teachers know how the students will hack their devices to do the most convenient and expedient things. Students don't read manuals or lists, they just start clicking and pushing until they get their immediate requirement complete. I believe we can actually learn a great deal about these devices by watching students - but if I don't have one I can't repeat and then re-teach.
I would also have to believe that most developers now know that every (or nearly every) student has a device and is willing to pay the $1 to $5 dollars for an app (whether they use it ten times or a thousand times) and the types of apps that are being developed are incredible.
I'm really on the fence here. I guess I would ask if that biking app is going to enhance your experience or whether it will detract from the pleasures of bike riding? I'd ask that same question about the device in a classroom.
Do you have friends anxiously standing by, waiting for your elevation report from the workout ;)
BTW, we are not friends.
May you enjoy your journey flat free. Expecting numerous updates. There is nothing like the end of school year bike journey.
Hi Ninja,
If it comes down to a smartphone or food for the family, go for the food. But otherwise, I don't think you'd be sorry. I can believe how addicted I've become to my iPhone!
Doug
Hi Kenn,
My sense is that smart textbook publishers will be developing for the phone, not a dedicated reader or tablet too.
Doug
Hi J,
I think that is a valid question, depending on the purpose of your bike ride. For these training rides, it's been great, but I am guessing on the longer ride the scenery, companionship and relaxation will keep the device out of sight most of the time.
No, no friends standing by waiting with baited breath to see my stats. I did send one to my wife to let her know I arrived at work safely. I think spouses are required to put up with crap like that.
I stand advised on the friendship thing. I'll be sending you no stats, no birthday greetings or no photos of body parts.
Doug
@ Doug
I value our non-friendship and thank you for not tweeting me your self, uh-hum, "portraits".