While some consider mobile devices as a distraction, different studies have proven just how effective these tech gadgets can be in enhancing the learning experience for students, specifically younger users.
In particular, the usage of iPads in the classroom through blended learning have been proven several times to improve children’s grades. Research conducted in Auburn, Maine revealed that kindergarten students using iPads scored much higher than those students who didn’t use the device. A separate study mentioned that 86% of students believe that iPads can help them study more efficiently.
Apart from iPads, powerful phablets with screen sizes ranging from 5- to 7-inches are also being considered as reliable educational tools by some students. Based on the tech information shared by O2, new phablets on the market have improved the most important aspects of mobile devices from faster mobile data, brighter displays, longer batteries, powerful chipsets to the latest OS. Thus, it’s no wonder that phablets sales are expected to surpass tablets. Research by IDC stated that these hybrid devices will take 32% of the smartphone market in 2018 from 14% in 2014.
However, tablets like the iPad, Amazon Fire, and Galaxy Tab remain as the main preferred learning tool by many schools and students for various reasons. Read on below to see how tablets can further enhance the learning experience for young learners.
Develop skills early
Exposure to mobile devices before the age of 5 can be beneficial to young users as they are able to develop skillsets faster through age-appropriate apps that develop their hand-eye coordination and motor skills through repetition. Students with disabilities and learning disorders will also benefit from using iPads, such as those suffering with Dyslexia as they can find particular tools online that help them with their reading disorder. Students with autism (80% to 90%) were also found to see great results when using an iPad, based on the data presented by Mashable.
Educational apps
The abundance of available information accessible on mobile devices is one of the reasons why many find iPads an effective learning tool. Many educational learning apps are available that teachers can recommend to parents. Likewise, the App Store offers a myriad of educational apps students can download from the basic numbers and letters to the more advanced university-based subjects. Web-based information are also there that parents can access from websites, images, and videos. Almost anything has an equivalent app that can assist people in everything they need.
After school learning
Mobile devices have made learning on-the-go effective. Blended learning becomes more common in the classroom setting, where students are able to learn even after class. Lessons are reinforced at home with the help of educational apps that discusses similar topics as taught in class.
While we encourage the exposure of young children to mobile devices, tablets and smartphones should never be considered as a digital babysitter. Instead, utilize the technology as a tool to enhance your children’s skills and learning habits without jeopardizing your parent-child bond.
Exclusively written for Xander
by TechnoloJB
TechnoloJB is a part-time tutor to secondary students in her neighborhood while taking her MBA. She considers herself a modern learner and educator as she maximizes mobile technology and the internet in making her learning and teaching experience more effective. She hopes to build a learning platform where students and teachers worldwide can freely share their learning materials to one another.
