REFLECTION ON HANDHELD DEVICES

What did I learn?

Through the classroom lectures that we had with the course tutor, I was able to understand that handheld devices are minicomputers with a screen, touchpad and a sensor. Also, in the lecturing process, I understood that m-learning is intersection of mobile computing and e-learning: accessible resources wherever you are, strong search capabilities, rich interaction, powerful support for effective learning, and performance-based assessment.  eLearning independent of location in time or space.  I have also learnt that handheld devices has undergone three changes in which this changes included  them becoming microcomputers, that they have been networked and they can also accept handwriting input. Also, word processing, simple calculations and others are some of the activities that handheld devices can also perform. Zoom, Padlet, google forms, twiddla are some of the communicative and collaborative applications that I as a student teacher can use in the course of my study.
Some of the merits that I also learnt was that, this devices help people to perform simple tasks like calculations, they also help people to carry out research activities. Also, time waste on unnecessary chats and watching of unwanted contents like pornographies are some of the demerits  of handheld devices. Poor network connectivity, high data bundles, inadequate power supply, low literacy level on the use of handheld devices are some of the challenges of that is causing limitations to the use of this devices.

What went well?

In the course of my study of the course with the course tutor and the entire class, I have realized that not just phone calls, sms, and WhatsApp chatting is the primary use of handheld devices like mobile phones. I now understand that it can be of greater use which is beyond only calls and chats. I have identified some educational applications that I think will be of great help to me as a student teacher and a potential professional teacher to be. Although I haven’t written any quiz, but I am having the confidence that I shall excel in the upcoming mid semester quiz and the end of semester examination.

What could I have done better?

Even though I haven’t written any quiz, but I could do much better if I carry out some personal studies in addition to the course tutor’s delivery. Most especially on the applications and make sure that I get use to them. I think group discussion with a colleague will also be of help since I will be able to understand some concepts that was challenging to me during my study time as an individual . I am sure if this activities are incorporated, I will find it easy in the use of handheld devices in the upcoming examinations and my whole teaching career.

Long term implications?

I have realized that, the course will help me to be able to develop appropriate TLMs in my teaching career. This particular topic in question can also go a long way in shaping my way of using platforms like Padlet to write motivational notes on social media and also the ability to use zoom to facilitate teaching and learning. In all, this topic will also improve my digital literacy level.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the course MULTIMEDIA DEVELOPMENT AND USE FOR UPPER PRIMARY will not only help student teachers skills of incorporating technology into their own teaching and learning process, but will also incorporate on them the skills to become digital literates and computer citizens.