Using Cell Phones & Google Voice in Foreign Language

My co-instructor Jeff Stanzler sent me this Educause article about a Spanish teacher who started using Google Voice with his students for oral language activities. While I have been talking about the potential benefits of Google Voice and foreign language, this is the first time I have really seen it put into practice. Here are a few Key Takeaways from the article:

• To pursue a paradigm shift in education with limited finances, schools should consider taking advantage of ubiquitous cell phone technology for pedagogical purposes that square with best practices within appropriate disciplines.
• New Internet SMS and messaging services are proving especially useful to language teachers, turning the focus away from the particulars of language and writing and toward whole language oral output and pronunciation, even at the beginner level.
• Cell phones give faculty access to students both in and out of the classroom, providing greater power to instruct, persuade, cajole, encourage, motivate, and engage.
• Students who record their voices in computer language labs or using cell phones become more engaged and invested in those potentially public recordings.

The Author (Peyton Jobe) describes how he uses Google Voice with both upper and lower level Spanish students:

"Cell phones offer an accountability tool for teachers inside the classroom. As an example, for lower level classes I can instruct my students to form small groups and, within a given time frame, call my Google Voice number and record a narration of an illustration or picture sequence. In the higher level classes, I can ask groups to come up with a succinct recorded comparison/contrast analysis of two different perspectives (textual and/or auditory) on a given subject. Either way, embracing whole language oral output turns the focus from the particulars of language and writing to whole language and pronunciation. It also allows for efficient instructor identification of common problem points."

Reverse Cell Phone Search

The search for the identity of an unknown caller is not as difficult as you think. Even if you can find the information you want for free, many of your success will depend on luck. It's much easier to get membership in a private reverse cell phone directory because surely get what you want - owner details such as name, address, and wireless service carrier.

People need to find information telephone number for a variety of reasons. Whether you are concerned about their children was a teenager hanging around with, or need to stop the very annoying prank caller, or even the need to stop harassing stalker, conducting reverse cell phone trace is a legitimate means of examining questionable people - especially if you suspect that your significant other be cheated.

But again, to identify the unknown persons for free, you will need to get lucky. The only way you can find your private information if they are willing to put it on the Internet. This way you can find it by doing a search with their phone number on the major search engines like Google, Yahoo and MSN. Otherwise, your only option is to make a small investment with a real database mobile phone that allows you to do a reverse lookup on virtually any phone number.

The reason that you can not find details of mobile phone online for free is due to transient nature of mobile phone life. People are constantly changing number of cells, and as a result they are simply too difficult to monitor on a uniform basis (for free). Maintaining accurate and up-to-date mobile database is simply too complicated and costs too much money to be made available on-line for free. People are also worried about having their phone numbers in the open telemarketers use, so the government made it very difficult for people to reveal details of a mobile phone number.

But do not worry, accurate and up to date reverse phone number search directory exist and are very affordable. The best of them allow you to purchase lifetime membership for unlimited searches, or if you feel the need for unrestricted access, you can make a small investment in one search. Allows you to search without pre-check the information you are looking for is available in its database, at which point you can decide whether or not you want to get it.

Does Your 9 Year Old Have a Cell Phone?

• The average 13 to 17 year old sends 2000 text messages a month!
• The average age to first own a cell phone is between 9 & 10
• The average age to borrow a cell phone is 8

Reference Here

Cell Phones in Learning Radio Show Dec. 2nd: Education Technology Developer Rick Weinberg

iPadio: International Phologging

Wisconsin educator Katie Titler introduced me to a free resource called iPadio about 5 months ago. Ever since I have been playing with the resource. iPadio is created in the UK and works globally! It allows anyone to use their phone to record "phlogs". Which are really just audio files posted to the Internet and given an RSS feed. iPadio also allows for cross-posting to just about any website or blog! This means that you can call in to the iPadio number (any phone will work), record an audio post, and have it immediately show up on your blog, wiki, or other website (without having to copy and paste embed code). Therefore it works in a similar fashion to my old favorite cross-posting site Gabcast (which is no longer free). It can also work with multiple phone numbers. I have recently used it with my students to do homework reflections that post directly on their blogger blogs. While it does take about 10 minutes to set up, once it is set up, you only need to make a call when you want to record an audio post. Besides oral reflections, this is a perfect tool for doing school-related podcasting!

Cell Phones in Learning Radio Show November 18th: Author of Pockets of Potential: Cooney Fellow Carly Shuler

Cell Phones in Learning Radio Show November 4th: Spanish Teacher Katie Titler Talks Voki and Cell Phones

PBS Kids go Mobile!

A few years ago PBS did a study where they gave parents of preschoolers a cell phone loaded with applications to help the children learn to read. The study was successful. Now PBS has posted free mobile applications for parents to download on their iPods and cell phones. All of the favorite PBS characters can be loaded on the phone--Mister Rogers, Curious George and more! While most preschoolers do not have their own cell phone, they can use their parent's phones to learn literacy!

Cell Phones in Learning Radio Show Oct 21st: MS Principal Dr. Kipp Rogers--Using Cell Phones in His School

Chat Transcript:
*** (19:19:47):Welcome to the Liz Kolb Chat Room.
Liz Kolb says (19:30:13):
Hi Jym
JymBrittain says to (19:30:24):
Hi Liz!
JymBrittain says to (19:30:50):
I shared your tweet to my fb account. I'm hoping a bunch of my friends show
Liz Kolb says (19:31:50):
http://docs.google.com/gview?a=v&q=cache:ezwrtytAamEJ:sbo.nn.k12.va.us/news/archive/2009/2009-04-06dp_cellphones_in_class.pdf+Kipp+Rogers+AND+Cell+Phones&hl=en&gl=us&sig=AFQjCNHRLwyjibLfaQto7n3HpJDc2aGroA
Liz Kolb says (19:32:37):
Thank you Jym!
Liz Kolb says (19:32:43):
Hi Peggy!!
Peggy_G says to (19:33:28):
HI-I was having problems finding the chat box!
Liz Kolb says (19:33:39):
Oh No!
Peggy_G says to (19:34:49):
I got a chance to drop the link for your book and sing your praises today on a webinar re mobile learning with Training Magazine Network. :-)
Liz Kolb says (19:35:34):
YAY! Peggy you rock! Thank you
Peggy_G says to (19:35:57):
This is such a great story!!
Liz Kolb says (19:36:04):
Love him
Peggy_G says to (19:36:44):
WE just need to listen to the kids :-)
JymBrittain says to (19:36:58):
I'm presenting to a doc level class on monday on mobile tools for teaching and learning. doing a 3 hour workshop on the topic in march
Peggy_G says to (19:37:41):
I'll bet the kids are begging to get into his classes!
Peggy_G says to (19:39:02):
I'd love to hear more about how he is collecting his data :-)
Liz Kolb says (19:39:48):
I love how he encourages his teachers to use them!
Peggy_G says to (19:40:16):
definitely!
JymBrittain says to (19:40:21):
quite a change from most administrators
Liz Kolb says (19:40:37):
@Jym Oh yes!
JymBrittain says to (19:40:58):
there's some good work coming out of ontario too
Peggy_G says to (19:41:05):
often it isn't the school administrators that are creating the school policy about cell phones--it's often the district administrators
Peggy_G says to (19:41:58):
great idea!
Liz Kolb says (19:43:42):
3rd year!!!!
Liz Kolb says (19:44:18):
Talking with Dr Kipp Rogers MS Principal Using Cell Phones in LEarning http://docs.google.com/gview?a=v&q=cache:ezwrtytAamEJ:sbo.nn.k12.va.us/news/archive/2009/2009-04-06dp_cellphones_in_class.pdf+Kipp+Rogers+AND+Cell+Phones&hl=en&gl=us&sig=AFQjCNHRLwyjibL
Peggy_G says to (19:44:46):
that's such a brilliant way to start!! That's what Tim Tyson did when he introduced blogging to his teachers :-) Then the second year they were all expected to blog!
Peggy_G says to (19:47:00):
good idea--important for kids to know if they have unlimited texting!
Peggy_G says to (19:48:37):
digital footprints!! :-)
JymBrittain says to (19:49:02):
I'm not getting any audio. I'll catch the podcast later.
Peggy_G says to (19:50:20):
so sorry JymBrittain!
Liz Kolb says (19:50:44):
({)
Peggy_G says to (19:51:37):
isn't that amazing!! they almost all have cell phones!
Peggy_G says to (19:52:11):
@Jim-do your students resist using their cell phones for learning?
Peggy_G says to (19:52:28):
what an enlightened principal!!!
Liz Kolb says (19:52:39):
Yes!!!
Liz Kolb says (19:53:29):
Peggy--will ask
Peggy_G says to (19:53:46):
I definitely plan to share this recording with some of my principal friends!! It is so inspiring!
Peggy_G says to (19:55:08):
such a great point about using a variety of ways to communicate with parents! I'm sure they appreciate it!
Peggy_G says to (19:55:26):
:-)
Peggy_G says to (19:56:43):
I love that they can't say they lost their homework because they always have their cell phone with them.
Liz Kolb says (19:57:06):
@Peggy I agree!!
Peggy_G says to (19:58:23):
Jim needs to take his story on the road!! Districts would love to hear these first-hand experiences from a principal!
Liz Kolb says (19:58:34):
I'll tell him!!!!
Peggy_G says to (19:59:14):
Tell the teachers/principals to get started the same way he did! That is such an effective strategy!
Peggy_G says to (20:00:35):
How about NECC/ISTE 2010?
Liz Kolb says (20:00:45):
Anytime Anywhere Mobile Learning Using Cell Phones Activities for the Classroom. Technology & Education
Peggy_G says to (20:00:47):
need a link for his book :-)
Peggy_G says to (20:01:50):
sounds wonderful!
Peggy_G says to (20:02:16):
Thanks for another great show Liz!
Liz Kolb says (20:02:18):
Let me get the link!
Peggy_G says to (20:02:23):
ok
Liz Kolb says (20:03:58):
I can't find it but will post on my blog!
Liz Kolb says (20:04:09):
Peggy Thanks for joining us! Isn't Kipp wonderful!
Peggy_G says to (20:04:15):
ok-I'll look there or google it :-)
Peggy_G says to (20:04:22):
Absolutely!!
Liz Kolb says (20:05:22):
Link to Kpp's Book: http://www.teamvistech.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=5&products_id=482&zenid=e7b2be070b6b30e2b17b58b1ec8587c4

Cell Phones in Learning Radio Show Oct 7th: 2 Teachers Getting Started with Cell Phones in Learning

Students Can Use SMS to Check & Post to Their Google Calendar

While the lucky ones who have smartphones can use their quick mobile Internet connections to check up on their Google Calendar or other web-based organizers, the rest of us (yes I am in this group!) cannot! However, if you use Google Calendar, you can use text messaging to post and read your calendar events. Here is a link to the all the information on how to do this with Google. It is very simple:

To text a new event
Send a new Text Message to:
48368

In Message:
Homework for social studies is to read chapter 3 and write essay on the American frontier due tomorrow at 2:00pm

Google Calendar will put all the information in the correct date and time!!

To read your events via text
Send a new Text Message to:
48368

In Message:

• 'next': request your next scheduled event
• 'day: request all of your scheduled events for the present day
• 'nday': request your events scheduled for the following day

**Right now you can only do this within a 24 hr window.

This would be a nice way to help students' organize by either having them create their own calender (at the secondary school level) or a class calendar (at the elementary level) where they can take turns sending and receiving assignments (and parents could join in too!).

Simpsons: Goes Mobile!

The first paperless-texting teacher shows up on The Simpsons!

Old School?



New School?

Cellular Phones And Accessories

All in mobile technology in those days. The use of multimedia players, ultra-light digital cameras and mobile phones, to name a few, have never been more frequent until now. People like gadgets that can take anywhere with you. Whether for fun or for commercial purposes, the purchase and use of mobile technology is really growing and will continue to grow for years or even decades to come.

When you click on your computer and access the Internet, chances are good that one of the top five websites, you will see is a publication of hundreds of mobile devices that are currently at hand for consumers. Not only that, but a lot of publicity has been done and to be in line of products that are only in conceptual stages, not just those that are already available. Mobile technology is really a big business, and virtually no end in sight.

Although there are myriads of gadgets catering to almost every function and purpose, I personally find the phone to be the most useful and practical. Needless to say that I carry around everywhere I go. My phone has practically become an essential part of my personal and professional life, since I bought my first of five years ago. Until now, I've had six mobile phones, and I see no reason why I should not trade in my last model to another if the features and functionality fit my lifestyle.

From teenagers to veterans, almost everyone has a cell phone. Even the children are always in on the act! A lot of people get one for many reasons. Some buy one just to be cool and be part of the "in crowd", while others get a phone, because their work requires it. With the varied assortment of amazing layout and functionality in newer models is produced, it seems that there is always a reason to have your phone.

A mobile phone is primarily a communication tool. You can have your blackberry and your PDA, but the phone will still be the main tool for keeping in touch with your friends, family, loved ones, business associates, contacts, and much more. In fact, a lot of new widgets are created with the aim of merging the phone features common with the entertainment features of digital audio players and video.

But just because the phone is a major communication tool does not mean that it can not be accessorized. There are dozens, perhaps hundreds, of other gadgets and accessories available online and elsewhere that you can use to decorate their appearance or to improve the functionality of your phone. Teenagers are the main followers of this trend for personalizing your phone, but in recent times, the practice has been observed in adults.

My Factory Cellular response to growing demand among users for the latest in accessories for mobile phones and the elements of customization. The online store features one of the largest and most complete line of accessories for all tastes, from the serious to funky. Browse the store and find phone cases, earphones, Bluetooth devices, neckstraps, flashing keypads, chargers and holsters, to name a few. The store makes sure to keep all the advantages and the most fashionable devices and accessories to meet the needs of a wide range of O

Cell phones, do you really want to be available all the time?

A famous person once said that the more available you make yourself, the more available to everyone expects you to be. People will actually be annoyed if they are not immediately and constantly available rather than being happy when you call. People expect to be available all the time that can be annoying. Cell phone calls follow you wherever you are including your bathroom. Even during the night when you want to rest, cell phones continue to ring and annoy you. While it is important, no problem, but it is very humble, because you need to be bothered so late.

Today in this modern society we live in and the proliferation of cell phones we see people talking anywhere and everywhere. If used for work, this can be very effective and worthy. However, for very menial issues being disturbed in his sleep and even during the time of the bath can be very annoying and even disgusting. However, if you make yourself available all the time, has created its own nightmare.

Phone etiquette is getting to be a forgotten concept. You see people talking on the phone loudly and disturbs people nearby, even in restaurants and offices. I'm sure that by now, once or twice in a meeting you will notice that when a phone rings, almost everyone around immediately check their mobile phones. If you were the one to speak, and then the person in front of you talks on his phone, how would you feel? I'm sure you will feel belittled and ignored. Rude practice, and must be changed.

It can help people who use mobile phones to follow certain degree of etiquette with regard to the use of mobile phones especially in places where it may seem rude if you use or even when the phone rings.

When you're in a place of worship, may be necessary to leave the mobile home, or at least disable it if you do not want to be away with it. This is because ringing cell phone while you are praying not only disturb will also disturb others. You do not need to show off your expensive gadget in a place of worship.

During the meetings, please turn off your phone, it is impolite to have your phone ringing while somebody speaks. Can cause problems of disruption in particular when the Assembly addresses issues of utmost importance. However, if you are waiting for terribly important call, you can use your phone vibrate mode to alert you when an incoming call and leave the meeting if you need to answer the call. You can also inform the possible caller that you are in a meeting and can not be disturbed.

When traveling, and if you are on board an aircraft, you will be asked to turn off the phone. This is because electronics devices may interfere with the avionics of the aircraft. Therefore, it is an obligation to turn the phone for security reasons. However, for very long flights, the airlines allow you to use the phone at some point, if you really need to make a phone call, use this time, if necessary.

Cell phone have become a necessity nowadays, that is why many people use and mobile phone manufacturers have continued to develop and use different functions for this gadget very small. Be globally competitive, but you should understand that being rude is not part of modernity. Follow certain degree of etiquette, this will be very useful to you and your business.

Cell Phones in Learning Radio Show is BACK!! Conversation with Nabeel Ahmad from Columbia University: Mobile Learning Course

The show has returned for the Fall! Jeff and I have a great line up of guests this Fall. Please check them out at:
http://blogtalkradio.com/elikeren

The Future of Mobile...

Visualizing the future of Mobile Phones from the MOCOM 2020 project.

How To Get A Cellular Phone Rental

Cellular phone rental you can get in any part of the globe

Today staying in touch for the traveler is easy in any part of the globe, thanks to cellular phone rentals. You can hire a wireless phone the minute you arrive in a foreign land and can use it for as long as you need to. Whether you are on a business trip or enjoying a vacation, you can access the best cellular rental services, anywhere in the world.

Cellular phone rental is the most cost effective way to have the latest phone in your hand which works best in the country where you have just landed. Depending on what you need, there are various types of cellular phone rentals available in the market today :

International cellular phone rental.

Prior to your getting cellular phone rental, you have to take a decision whether you want the rental in the United States or get the cellular phone on rent in the country where you are going.

More over you have to decide if you wish to go for the online cellular phone, which are available at very attractive rate or hire a phone at the airport, where you might have to pay additional fees.

The facility offered by the international cellular phone rental enables the business or holiday traveler to remain accessible throughout their net work of 170 countries worldwide, with merely one cellular phone rental.

Nearly all the cellular phone rental companies are at your service 24 hours through out the year. The service providers of international cellular phones include all the latest products and services offered by leading brands in the industry. The services are customized to meet the individual need of the business traveler. The services are extremely convenient and not very expensive. It is affordable by the leisure traveler too, to stay in touch with the family and friends at home.

The following procedures will help you to get a cellular phone rental :

1. It makes good sense to check with your current cell phone company if their phones will work abroad. Check this out before you venture into a cellular phone rental. While most US phones are not functional abroad, some on the GSM standards do.

2. The delivery and pick up charges for a cellular phone rental is somewhere between $20 and $50. There is also a security deposit, which you can pay with your credit card. There are some phone companies who enclose a postage paid envelope for you to return the phone, while others mention that you can pick up and drop off the phone at the airport.

3. Before choosing a particular phone company’s services, compare the rates of different companies. You might come across some good deals, like free incoming calls from the US. Compare identical facilities and then you can get the best rates available.

4. The expenses average between $30 to $50 per week or $7 to $8 per day. So be prepared for this when you are overseas. If you are going to stay overseas for a month or so, then the rates will be anywhere between $50 and $150 per month.

5. To get access to the most reliable cellular phone rental company operating in your destination country, it is best to check with your travel agent, the concierge of your hotel, your own company’s travel desk or your local contacts. These are the most knowledgeable people to off guidance in the matter.

6. You will find noticeable kiosks at international airports announcing their cellular phone rentals. These phones are more expensive than hiring the local ones but come with the added advantage of picking up and dropping it off at the airport.

7. It is also possible that the international car rental companies offer a free cellular phone. Or at a price significantly lower than the retail. You could enquire more in detail regarding the “free phone” services offered.

Teachers Use Cell Phones to Tweet at Movies!

In order to help students improve their writing skills (and thinking around writing & literacy), principle Kipp Rogers at Passages Middle School in Virginia decided to have his teachers do an activity with their cell phones at the movie theater! Yes! They were asked to turn on their cell phones and text message to twitter during the movie Julie & Julia.

Electronics Tips: Cell Phone Facts Every User Should Know

As a cell phone user, you probably feel overwhelmed with all the changes that are coming about with cell phones. Cell phones are ever changing with new gadgets, services, and phones being released on a continual basis. Below we've put together some cell phone facts every user should know. Don't get caught in a cell phone trap, but become educated before you make your next phone purchase.

Cell Phone Batteries

Every cell phone user occasionally experiences the "race against battery life" on their cell phone. You try to use up every ounce of power there is before recharging. Unfortunately, this can cause many problems with your battery later on. Primarily, it could shorten the life of your battery between charges to the point where you're charging more than you're talking!

There are several ways to prolong the life of your cell phone battery. Keep your backlight off unless you know for sure you'll need it. This might be annoying at first, but it will save battery life. When traveling in areas where there is no coverage or there is only roaming coverage, turn off your cell phone completely. The cell phone uses a lot of battery power while trying to locate a network. In addition, try to limit your conversations on your cell phone. The longer you talk, the more battery power you will use. Also, limit your usage of cell phone games or Internet browsing. These use a lot of battery power even though you're not actually talking.

Downloading Woes

When downloading Web features, games, ringtones, wallpaper, and screensavers, be sure there are no recurring fees. Although companies may not state it upfront, some of these features have recurring monthly fees. If you purchase a cell phone for your child, find out if you can block these features. Or, find out if there's a way that you as a parent can order features, but your child cannot.

The Fine Print of Cell Phone Purchases

When buying a cell phone with a one- or two-year contract or pay-per use agreement, be sure to read the fine print. Consider how many minutes you plan to use the cell phone each month. Weigh the prices of both types of agreements before signing on the dotted line. If you plan to use the cell phone a lot, then a long-term contract might be worth it.

Consider the features you want. With long-term plans, you can often get more features on your cell phone for less money or even as a bonus at no charge. Ask if all your features, such as caller ID, will work when roaming. Also with any plan, consider if long distance is included. Find out the usual roaming charges, connection fees (if applicable), and if there are any other hidden fees in the plan.

Ask about Factory Warranties

Some cell phone companies will replace your cell phone if it breaks or is lost or stolen. Consider the warranty of a cell phone before buying. Cell phones are typically carried everywhere you go: in a purse, pants pocket, shirt pocket, on a belt case, and even out in wet weather. With cell phones being so mobile, they can easily get broken or damaged. The warranty will give you peace of mind when carrying and using your cell phone.

Buying Cell Phones Online

When buying cell phones online, be sure the phone is up-to-date and carries all the features you want. You can buy your cell phone online and still visit a local venue to purchase minutes or to sign up for a contract. Just be sure and buy from a company you trust.

There are also electronics shopping malls online where you can find many brand names of cell phones, a PDA, or other electronics at discount prices, such as Sony, Nokia, Motorola, Samsung, Blackberry. You can shop for other products while at the mall, including PS2 machines or games, computer supplies, iPods, and an Xbox.

Use these cell phone tips to find the phone you need for work or play!

Your DailyBooth: PhotoTweeting for Classroom Learning

I have a few favorite sites that couple with my cell phone camera for posting images to the web. Three of my favorites are Pixelpipe, Photobucket and Flickr. I now have a fourth. It is called DailyBooth. DailyBooth is a "twitter" environment for photos. It is incredibly easy to set up and use. Once you create an account, you get a mobile email address where you can send pictures from any cell phone! The pictures appear just like twitter posts. The pictures appear instantly and with optional text. There are also some nice privacy settings on DailyBooth. I really like that you only need to set up one account and can use it with all of the student cell phones (thus no need for student accounts and the teacher can have control over editing).

Classroom Integration
Homework
The very first thing I thought of when I was playing with DailyBooth was image-based homework assignments! Students could easily capture images of everyday culture that reflects classroom learning. For example, students in a biology class could take pictures of different types of species they encounter everyday and send it to the class Dailybooth feed. They could comment on each others images to have an academic discussion on the images.

Image-Based Storytelling
Students could post mobile images to create a storybook. Especially if each student had their own DailyBooth account, they could have their own storybook (and it would be created in the moment--in real time).

Storyboarding
What a fun way to create a storyboard for a video project by texting in images and text describing the different scenes.

School Current Events/News Feed
With parents permission, the school could create a DailyBooth Image feed of school activities and events. Parents could follow and stay up to date as well as comment.

Research Report
Yes! I did say research report---twitter style! Students could put together their own inquiry-based image project to research a topic, provide evidence and a conclusion. For example they could use images to describe what they believe to be the greatest cause of the current economic crisis in the U.S.. Or evidence of whether or not global warming is a real phenomena. Images can be a powerful way to present a well-thought out research study.

How To Choose Good Quality Cell Phone Case

It can be said that cell phones has become part of human’s life. Today, we can see that everyone use mobile phones and some people could not survive without it. The cell phone technology itself is developing all the time to add more functions to correspond to consumer’ s need, such as digital cameras, video recorders, Internet WiFi enabled or have access to Blue Tooth or 3G Plus Internet access. Therefore, it can be said that today, by having only one cell phone so you can connect to the world.

As mentioned earlier about the importance of cell phone in our everyday life. So now we are going to talk about the most important accessory that use for protect them from accident, cell phone case. When you bought a cell phone there will be additional accessory items that you are required to buy them. These additional accessories are ear-buds, hands-free auto units or carrying cases. You may find that this kind of accessories is really expensive but you have to purchase them no matter how expensive they are because these accessories enable your cell phone works in fully functioning for your highly mobile lifestyle.

Therefore, when you complete buying new cell phone and all other necessary accessories, you should look for a good quality cell phone case. As previously described that cell phone and accessories are very sensitive expensive. You are able to look for cell phone carrying case in any price from incredibly cheap to unaffordable expensive. The good place to start find good ones is on the internet, discount stores. The most popular material for cell phone carrying case is leather. Leather provides great protection to your cell phone and accessories and I suggest you to go for it. However, there are plenty of cell phone carrying cases available in the market. They are available in many sizes, shapes and colors as well as from many manufacturers. There are imported carrying cases made by manufacturer in other country such as China, which the quality quite good but in reasonable price. However, You may buy cases that a bit more expensive if you have more budget available to make sure that you get better quality, but you have to bare in mind that price does not always the indicator of quality.

Good cell phone carrying should be effective in terms of water proof, if you choose leather case there should be no problem because leather is the material that very good at protect stuff from water. But id you use cell phone case that made from other material such as canvas, there is a greater chance of water leak to inside the case. So if you have more budgets, just go for leather case.

Price comparison is also necessary when you have to choose cell phone carrying case. Many suppliers have set different price and mark up. You can get the same quality of cell phone case but cheaper. Even though it is something that is not extra expensive but you still have to do price comparison to make sure that you get the best value of money.

Homework Quizes Via Phonevite

Wow! I'm really enjoying the ease of a resource called Phonevite. Phonevite allows you to record a message, send it to 25 people at one time on a scheduled time! You can also request an "RSVP" or "Message-Back". Therefore after recipiants hear the message on their phone, they are asked to immediately reply. The message can go back to the teachers' Phonevite private account where all the messages are compiled. The "RSVP" messages are multiple choice options (think quick multiple choice reviews--on the fly!), while the "Message-Back" messages are open-ended replies (this speaking quizzes, exams, reviews, discussions, summaries, elaborations, and speeches). In addition your original recordings are all saved in Phonevite so that you could send out the same recording message to different groups of students every school year (no need to reinvent the wheel!).

Accessibility for those without cell phones because Phonevite works with a landline, cell phone, or computer microphone to record. Phonevite also calls you! Rather than having to worry about dialing a long distance number, Phonevite will do the calling. In addition if students do not have access to a phone at all, they can receive the Phonevite messages via email (it appears as an MP3 file).

Limitations for Free Account: With the Free Account you can program a broadcast to up to 25 contacts (up to twice every 30 days).

Classroom Applications!
Quizzes and Exams
This is a wonderful tool for any type of speaking quiz or oral exam. You could tell students when to expect the quiz (since you can schedule a time) or you can do some "quizzes on the fly" by sending them out randomly. Because students need to respond immediately, they need to be prepared for the quiz that might come their way!

Homework Reviews
Instead of asking students to respond to the questions in the back of the book, we could do some homework questions or summaries orally via Phonevite.

Teenagers And Their Cellular Phones

It would not come as a shock today when we find teenagers carrying with them their very own personal mobile phones. Millions of teenagers worldwide have cellular phones with them either because they want to keep themselves abreast with the latest technology (that is how they really are) or because their parents themselves wanted them to have one because it allows them to monitor their whereabouts. You have to admit letting your children bring with them a cell phone offers a lot of advantages.

If it is the parent who wants their kids to have a cell phone, then it is only fitting that they shoulder the billing. Of course, you have to set some boundaries and inform your teen not to spend more than you what you have budgeted for it. If it is the teen who insists on having his or her own mobile phone, then it is just right that he or she shoulder part of the expense. The great thing about this is that your teen would learn how to budget and manage his or her funds. To avoid them going overboard when it comes to cellular phone expenses, you could start them off with prepaid phones. If there are no credits left on the phone then they cannot make calls or send messages. There is a strong tendency for teens to waste valuable talk time with just petty conversations over the mobile phone. Having a prepaid line, would teach them to limit their calls to important ones only.

I believe that the most popular models chosen by teens nowadays would definitely be the camera phones. They could basically fool around with it while taking pictures but warn them though that sending these images constantly to other cell phone users would be taking up much of the bill as well.

If your teen drives, spending a few more dollars on a hands free device or Bluetooth earpiece shouldn’t bother you. Teens need to be able to have both hands on the wheel while they may be taking an important call from you or from their friends. It is advisable though that you impose on your teens not to make or take calls while driving for safety reasons.

I would have to say that although some parents dislike the idea of letting their kids have their own cellular phones, I believe that any parent would agree that being able to know that they are safe and secure is totally priceless. Any parent would feel at ease knowing also that your children could call you anytime in case they will be in trouble.

The Advantages Of Cellular Phones

There are several advantages of having a wireless phone. First of all, they’re very small and handy, making carrying them everywhere very easy. They can be very useful when doing business for a person who is constantly on-the-go. Instead of sitting at home or at an office, waiting for a phone call that may come when you least expect, a person can simply take the phone with them and complete whatever errands they have, and still not miss that important phone call.

Another advantage of having a mobile phone is in case of emergencies. A person may be on the road and may experience car trouble. Instead of walking in possible inclement weather, dangerous neighborhoods or long distances, the convenient cell phone can be used to call for roadside assistance, or either a friend to lend a hand. Cell phones can also be quite helpful in other emergencies as well, such as to call the police following a car accident, if a suspicious person appears to have criminal intentions, and especially if an actual crime had been committed.

Since the creation of cell phones, many households and businesses choose not to even have a landline telephone. The portability and convenience of mobile phones far exceeds the need for a landline phone. They may feel that it’s unnecessary to pay two separate telephone bills, when the cell phone meets all their needs, whether they’re at home, work or out having dinner at a restaurant.

Cell phones are also a lot more fun than traditional landline telephones. They have games, cameras, and recorders, which can be very handy. The games on these cell phones can prevent boredom. A person may be in an exceptionally long line someplace and the cell phone could make the time pass a lot more quickly.

Mobile phones are also better than landline phones because of the ability to send text and instant messages to friends, family members and business associates. This can be done almost silently, without disturbing others that may be nearby.

Some wireless phones also allow consumers to access the internet. They can check their email, view the weather, sports scores and other useful website from the palm of their hand, no matter where they are. They can also download cool new ring tones for their phone.

Many people wouldn’t dare leave home without their cell phone, even if it is only used to keep in contact with friends and family.

Mymiamia The ChaCha for Many Countries!

I often gloat about how fantastic ChaCha is for gathering information. ChaCha allows you to dial a toll-free number or send a text message and receive information regarding just about anything! Sadly ChaCha can only be used in the United States. However, I often forget to mention that there is an alternative for countries outside of the U.S.. It is called Mymiamia. Mymiamia works in the same way as ChaCha. You can call or text in a question, then receive an answer within a few minutes. These countries include Austrialia, Norway, Hong Kong, United Kingdom, South Africa, and many more! I pasted in the chart of voice and SMS numbers below. Try it!


Classroom Connections:
1) Field Trips/Outside of Classroom Learning
While many teachers may have concerns with using cell phones inside of classroom to gather knowledge and data (although I think this speaks to the need to adjust assessment to more inquiry-based higher order thinking skills), teachers could encourage students to take advantage of Mymiamia on a field trip for gathering knowledge. For example, if students are at a historical village or science museum, and they learn about a famous person, they can gather more knowledge about that person via Mymiamia---in the moment. Thus they learn how to use their cell phones as an immediate knowledge gathering tool!

2) Beginning Inquiry Research
English, Science, and Social Studies courses often encourage inquiry-based learning. While Mymiamia is not going to write an inquiry paper or do inquiry research, it can help students get started on their knowledge gathering process. For example, students could ask, "What are some reasons why the stock market crashed in 1929?" Mymiamia will give a variety of reasons or just one reason. Then it is up to the students to find evidence to corraborate the findings from Mymiamia. They could continue to use Mymiamia IF they know which type of questions to ask. Such as "were there any regulations on the stock market trading in the 1920's?". Once again this is not a paper, rather a knowledge gathering process.

Cell Phones in Learning Radio Show Wed July 15th: Math Teacher Jimbo Lamb Talks Cell Phones & Learning

Chat Transcript:
Liz Kolb says (19:13:19):
We are talking today with Jimbo Lamb. A Math educator from Pennsylvania, who uses cell phones in his teaching and learning. http://misterlamb.blogspot.com/
Liz Kolb says (19:14:07):
About Chalkbot http://www.nike.com/nikeos/p/livestrong/en_US/chalk_messages
Liz Kolb says (19:15:10):
We are talking today with Jimbo Lamb, a secondary Math educator from Pennsylvania who uses cell phones in his teaching. http://misterlamb.blogspot.com/
Liz Kolb says (19:20:11):
We will get started in about 10 minutes!
Liz Kolb says (19:29:46):
Hi Paul Thanks for joining us
Paul R Wood says to (19:30:15):
My pleasure. I am still trying to figure out how we missed each other at NECC. Too funny.
misterlamb says to (19:31:30):
Lance is racing this year
misterlamb says to (19:31:41):
Currently in 3rd place
Liz Kolb says (19:32:14):
Text 'LIVESTRONG' followed by your chalk message to 36453, and we'll let you know when it's written.
Paul R Wood says to (19:32:15):
8 seconds behind
Liz Kolb says (19:32:55):
http://www.nike.com/nikeos/p/livestrong/en_US/chalk_messages
Liz Kolb says (19:33:50):
http://twitter.com/chalkbot
Liz Kolb says (19:34:59):
http://misterlamb.blogspot.com/
Paul R Wood says to (19:35:09):
From Chalkbot on Twitter: Hey Twitterverse, we are sending out some of our printed messages today via DM. If you are not already following us, please do! Please RT.
Paul R Wood says to (19:37:52):
Always fun to watch the students reaction when first used.
Liz Kolb says (19:38:03):
@Paul---YES!
Paul R Wood says to (19:38:22):
Student smore than willing to work within the framework when shown ways to use it and why
Paul R Wood says to (19:40:01):
So many different ways that we need to bring others to the water and show them the reasons to drink
Liz Kolb says (19:40:35):
Hi Kim!
Paul R Wood says to (19:41:19):
@kimcaise how are you?
kcaise says to (19:41:23):
hi all!
kcaise says to (19:41:32):
how was the damage at home paul
Paul R Wood says to (19:41:46):
It is ugly to saythe least.
kcaise says to (19:41:51):
oh no, ss to hear that
Paul R Wood says to (19:42:36):
Yep all for the protection of the power lines. Trees were no where near them
Liz Kolb says (19:43:03):
Link to Jimbo's Yodio project http://mrlambmath.wikispaces.com/quadratics
Paul R Wood says to (19:44:49):
Ah the power of twitter keeps on shining
Paul R Wood says to (19:45:28):
Great that yodio was so very willing to work with you.
Paul R Wood says to (19:47:28):
When I went thru school we were using slide rules. We have come so wonderfully far.
Liz Kolb says (19:47:49):
Hi Rich, thanks for joining us
Paul R Wood says to (19:49:00):
Good point on the ettiquette
Rich Mackrell says to (19:49:00):
How much time have you taken to teach the students how to use their cell phones for your classroom needs?
Paul R Wood says to (19:49:25):
I see that as empowering the students and they are all for that
Rich Mackrell says to (19:50:49):
Did you need permission forms since texting has a cost?
Liz Kolb says (19:51:15):
@Rich --- good question I will ask
Liz Kolb says (19:52:31):
I like the responsibility...students should know their plans
Paul R Wood says to (19:52:47):
Agreed @Liz
Rich Mackrell says to (19:53:14):
Awesome ideas.
Paul R Wood says to (19:53:41):
Like the idea about bringing in a bill to look at with the students
Liz Kolb says (19:54:07):
@Paul me too!!!! I'm going to do that
Paul R Wood says to (19:54:37):
If you explain it to the parents they ARE very appreciative.
Paul R Wood says to (19:55:15):
Me niether
Paul R Wood says to (19:55:48):
Most parents want their children to use things properly
Liz Kolb says (19:56:16):
http://textmarks.com
Paul R Wood says to (19:57:31):
Someone disgruntled about video on youtube is what it sounds like
Liz Kolb says (19:59:20):
Start Small!!
Paul R Wood says to (19:59:48):
Great job LIZ and thank you @misterlamb.
kcaise says to (19:59:52):
good suggestion
Rich Mackrell says to (19:59:58):
Awesome job Jimbo, you've definitely givem some ideas to walk away with...
Paul R Wood says to (20:00:17):
Also let an administrator use your polleverywhere account and let them play and the understand better
misterlamb says to (20:00:39):
Use it in a faculty meeting to show the power of the tool
kcaise says to (20:01:05):
thanks liz and jimbo
kcaise says to (20:01:08):
nite all
Liz Kolb says (20:01:12):
Thanks for joining us tonight everyone! You really need to check out Jimbo's wiki and blog
Liz Kolb says (20:01:49):
I know a superintendent (62 years) who used Polleverywhere at the 1st day of school meeting! Loved that
misterlamb says to (20:02:09):
I am getting excited about this coming school year, as I will be working with integrating cell phones with lower-level students
Liz Kolb says (20:03:00):
Cannot wait to hear about it!

Text Message To Tour De France To Fight Cancer!

Wow! This is really cool! Too bad most students are not in class right now, but it could still be a great activity for summer break!

Chalkbot, is a robot project from the Lance Armstrong's Livestrong Foundation for cancer awareness. Anyone can send the robot a text message which will be printed out in chalk on the road during the Tour de France!

Text 'LIVESTRONG' followed by your chalk message to 36453, and they will let you know when it's written! Cool!

It's Good Business! Mobile Web2.0 Tools Should be Free For Educators

Over the last five years of researching web2.0 tools that couple with cell phones, I have found many tools that I LOVE, but they cost money to use. As an educator and former technology coordinator, I know that for many schools it is unrealistic to expect them to be able to pay (consistently--year after year) for access to the web2.0 tool. At the same time I understand that most of these companies that create the tools are in business to make money. Especially sites that do not advertise (which schools like), need some way to stay afloat. Therefore, here is my proposal to these companies.

1) Allow educators K-16 to use these resources for free. Allow them to use the FULL version for free if there is an upgrade option (there are many resources that are starting to go in this direction)

2) In return when these students enter the "real world" there is a good chance they will be hooked on these resources. Thus, they will be willing to pay to use them in the business world.

In my opinion, this is a win-win. The schools get access to the latest and best resources for mobile phones, and the companies get lots of marketing and future business.

I thought of this idea when I was talking with a friend in Canada who said that in his province all students under the age of 18 get free unlimited texting by a few of the cell phone companies. I realized that this is an excellent marketing scheme by the cell phone companies. Here is why---the companies get the students hooked on all the bells and whistles of text messaging (not hard to do!) so that the companies have guaranteed business when the students reach the age of 18! Smart marketing in my opinion. Why can't some of my favorite mobile web2.0 companies do the same??? The resources below were often-used by educators BEFORE the sites started charging.
http://Gabcast.com
http://www.voiceonthego.com
http://jott.com
http://gcast.com
http://drop.io
http://evoca.com

I have been contacting many of these sites with my proposal.

What do you think? Do you have any sites to add to the list?

Cell Phones in Learning Radio Show Wed July 1st: Preservice Teachers Talk about Cell Phone Use in Student Teaching

Chat Transcript
Hi Everyone! Tonight we are talking with 2 new teachers who both used cell phones during their student teaching for project-based learning activities.
afeikema says to (00:28:37):
Hi LIz--saw this on your twitter and thought it was worth a listen
Liz Kolb says (00:29:04):
Hi Allison! Good to see you!
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:29:21):
Liz, I'm having trouble getting through on the phone
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:29:35):
Hi, Allison!
Liz Kolb says (00:29:38):
Oh No!!!
afeikema says to (00:29:47):
hello :)!
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:29:54):
Have Sean and Allison gotten through?
Liz Kolb says (00:30:04):
This number right (347) 324-3938
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:33:32):
Langwitches:
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:33:35):
http://langwitches.org/blog/2009/04/14/what-is-in-a-fieldtrip/
Liz Kolb says (00:34:09):
http://www.everythingformymobile.com/
Liz Kolb says (00:41:08):
http://wiffiti.com
Liz Kolb says (00:54:28):
http://drop.io (Sean & Allison both used this for audio recording from cell)
Liz Kolb says (00:55:06):
I love that!!! You can "text it to me" Great idea!
Liz Kolb says (01:00:17):
Thank you All for joining us!
Jeff Stanzler says to (01:00:30):
Thanks, everyone!!

Dangerous Cell Phone Usage

Cell phones are handy little devices that people everywhere have come to rely on. They are easy to use, small, making it easy to stash them anywhere, as well as convenient. What most people don’t realize, though, is the potential danger associated with using a cell phone. This can happen in many ways.

The first way that a cell phone can be dangerous is at a gas station. Although most people have never paid much attention, most gas stations post warning signs near the pumps, warning customers of cell phone usage while pumping gas. The gas station owners are afraid of an electrical spark from the mobile phone somehow causing an explosion. Even though the ability of cell phones causing gas station fires is unsubstantiated, some areas are strict about enforcing the rule of not using a cell phone while pumping gas. Some states will even issue a fine to anyone caught using a wireless phone at a gas pump.

One very serious danger of using a cell phone is while driving. There are several ways that driving while having a cell phone conversation can be dangerous. First, a person may not properly pay attention to the road as they are dialing a phone number. This could result in a car accident. Also, a person could be so engrossed in a conversation that the same result could occur. It’s doesn’t matter if the conversation is negative or positive, it could still cause an accident. A person could be arguing with someone, causing them to be upset and suffer from impaired judgment. They may miscalculate the time that they have to make a certain turn, or make a similar mistake that they wouldn’t have made had they not been involved in a cell phone conversation. Even if the driver is having a pleasant conversation, it is still possible for them to become so engrossed in the good news or whatever it may be, that they may a serious mistake that causes a car accident. Car accidents are usually very serious, too. People can get seriously injured or even killed. And if the police find out that the person causing the accident was using a cell phone as they drove, that person could be charged with vehicular manslaughter.

Who wants to risk going to jail, just to use a cell phone while they drive? No one does. This is why people need to practice more responsible habits while using mobile phones. Sure, wireless phones are convenient and important, but using them in the wrong situation can have some tragic consequences.

New Learning in India & Africa: Student Cell Phones

A recent report on ABC news highlighted how students in rural areas of India were using their cell phones to learn languages. One of the benefits of using student cell phones for learning in India is that they can learn away from school (since many are forced to skip school so they can work).

In Africa a project called MobilED has been working on different ways to integrate the students' cell phones into learning. Below is one example of how the students are using cell phones to voice record and create oral stories. Beyond this video, they are also using audio encyclopedias that couple with cell phones for student projects.

Cellphones Can Save Your Life

Originally designed for keeping in touch, today’s cellphones are nifty feature rich communication devices that not only come equipped with an incredible array of functions to increase your productivity and entertainment experiences but also with the ability to save your life. Hence, in this article we examine ways in which the modern cellphone can be used as a survival tool.

Bullet Protection
The metal casing found in today's cellphones is not only great for keeping away scratches, but can also be used to deflect bullets. Take the case of Darren Prior, a jewelry attendant who credited his cellphone for saving his life during a botched robbery.

Flash Light
The bright display screen found in today’s cellphones not only makes it easy to use the device in the dark but also allows the cellphone to be used as a portable torch, like in the case of the two stranded hikers who had used their cellphone display screens as glow sticks to direct rescue helicopters to their location.

Personal Surveillance System
Many cellphones now come equipped with a camera which are not only good for snapping personal pictures but can also be used as a personal surveillance device to help protect you from unforeseen incidents, such as a pervert on the subway, a robbery suspect and a would be kidnapper.

Silent Alarm
Apart from keeping in touch, the text messaging ability is a great feature that is not only simple to use but also discrete. This is especially useful if you need to send out a silent alarm, like in the case of a kidnapped boy who secretly text messaged his parents.

Location Finder
Many new cellphones come with a built in GPS. Not only does this technology allow parents to spy on their kids but can also be used a GPS system to find your exact location. Like in the case of the standard couple whose cellphone GPS capabilities enabled Emergency 911 operators to relay their location to on ground rescuers.

Cell Phones in Learning Radio Show: Wed June 17th: Conversation with Developer of Yodio.com

CHAT TRANSCRIPT
Liz Kolb says (00:32:22):
Welcome everyone!
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:35:12):
Elizabeth Hartnell_Young's work at University of Mottingham in England:
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:35:17):
Links:
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:35:20):
http://www.lsri.nottingham.ac.uk/ehy/index.htmhttp://www.lsri.nottingham.ac.uk/ehy/learning_with_mobile_technologie.htm
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:35:38):
Sorry...
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:35:40):
http://www.lsri.nottingham.ac.uk/ehy/learning_with_mobile_technologie.htm
Liz Kolb says (00:37:11):
https://www.obopay.com/consumer/GetHelp.do?target=HelpHowWorks
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:37:40):
Other Hattnell-Young link: http://www.lsri.nottingham.ac.uk/ehy/index.htm
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:42:29):
YES!
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:42:43):
Can you turn it up a bit, Liz?
Liz Kolb says (00:43:07):
That is all I can do
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:43:10):
Better.
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:43:50):
Yodio: http://www.yodio.com/
Liz Kolb says (00:46:51):
Hi Cheri - Can You Hear?
CheriToledo says to (00:46:55):
Yes
CheriToledo says to (00:47:06):
I was in before but wanted to be able to comment, so i logged in
Liz Kolb says (00:47:16):
Great!
CheriToledo says to (00:47:19):
thanks to you, i'm using yodio
Liz Kolb says (00:47:38):
Whohoo..thank Jimbo Lamb! He showed me
CheriToledo says to (00:48:19):
It's working great and several of my grad students will use it with their K-12 students
CheriToledo says to (00:48:38):
this is a recording, right?
Liz Kolb says (00:48:40):
Clay is going to talk about future of Yodio ap..great things are coming our way
Liz Kolb says (00:48:49):
@cheri YES!
CheriToledo says to (00:49:21):
Do you post the archive of the show?
Liz Kolb says (00:49:51):
Yes, on my blog (within 24 hrs)
CheriToledo says to (00:50:09):
great, thanks! I'll direct my students there
CheriToledo says to (00:54:01):
What did you use to create the recording? Yodio?
Liz Kolb says (00:54:20):
http://FreeConferencePro.com
Liz Kolb says (00:54:56):
It's Free and can record up to 200 people on one conf call at a time
Liz Kolb says (01:00:28):
Thank You for joining Us!
Jeff Stanzler says to (01:00:36):
Thanks!!
CheriToledo says to (01:00:42):
thanks!!
Liz Kolb says (01:00:49):
Thank you Cheri!
CheriToledo says to (01:01:15):
wow - it cut you off at the end didn't it

3 Cool Cell Phone Tricks For You

Cell phones have become ubiquitous. It is now unusual to find anyone who does not have one of the little beasties. The obvious next step was to seek a means to ensure your cell phone is unique and different from all of the others out there. A variety of features exist in varying combinations and there are the usual tricks like customizing the picture on the screen or the ringtone. These are almost all more style than substance.

We’ve all experienced the ringtone that outstays its welcome and then just won’t go away or a ringtone that is just particularly inopportune for some reason. There are also stories of just the wrong cell phone wallpaper showing the bosses relative or some other potentially embarrassing sight. Some people actually use those phones for something other than status symbols. Here are a couple of tricks for those.

One potentially useful trick is the doggie whistle. For cell phones that allow multiple ring tones, using the inaudible dog whistle for one provides a handy method to discourage annoying dogs that might chase you as you jog, harass you as you walk or some other hassle.

Another useful trick is that of habitually locking the phone’s keys when you replace it into a pocket, purse or other container. The random presses of buttons that otherwise occur are a drain on battery power unless the phone has been told to ignore them with the lock command, and can potentially save money if the phone might accidentally hit the correct combination to make a call. Another useful feature to save battery power is airplane mode, for those times when you do not desire to answer the phone but do expect to need the phone's other features, such as a planner function or even clock.

Finally, cell phones are terribly convenient. Carrying around a phone book isn’t. Yet conventional directory assistance costs can add up. The alternative is 800-FREE411, or 800-373-3411. This is an ad supported directory assistance that can be used to find numbers you haven’t stored on your phone without running up those directory assistance charges.

Time to Teach Students How to Bank via Cell Phone

R U Ready???
Well, ready or not mobile banking is here! It is available for anyone willing to give a try! Sites such as Obopay allow anyone to sign up and create a mobile banking account. The mobile banking allows anyone to send or accept money by sending a text message on a cell phone. No need for wallet, credit cards, change...etc. You send a text message to Obopay and the phone number of the recipient of the funds (the recipient does not need to be registered at Obopay!). Obopay does charge .25 cents to send funds (although it does not matter how much you send) and it does not cost the recipient any money. You can add money to your obopay account online with a credit card, bank account transfer, or even PayPal. People can also send you money via cell phone without an Obopay account!

Now that mobile banking is no longer a "futuristic" idea, shouldn't businesses and economic classes be teaching students how to deal with their finances in the mobile world? This is not the only mobile banking option, and it just touches the surface of the mobile banking possibilities!

Classroom Integration
Business/Economics Course
Teachers could set up a mobile account and students could responsibly spend and collect money from the account for a business related project. Obopay pay tracks who is sending money and where it is going.

Fund Raising
It might be an easy way to raise funds (since people do not have to have an Obopay account to send money). Since Obopay keeps track of all funds, senders, and recipents, it might be an easy way to keep track of finances.

A few other sites for mobile banking
Paymo
BilltoMobile


Thoughts????

Cell Phones in Learning Radio Show Wed June 3rd: Preservice Teachers Talk about Cell Phone Use in Student Teaching

Chat Transcript:
Liz Kolb says (00:24:59):
Welcome to the show! Tonight we are talking with four student teachers (recently graduated) who used cell phones in learning during their student teaching.@anlingua @galvinse @kglupker @refranco
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:32:07):
ok
Liz Kolb says (00:33:22):
Rena Franco World History teacher used cell phones during Imperialism unit
Liz Kolb says (00:33:28):
Hi Peggy
Peggy_G says to (00:34:00):
Hi Liz and Jeff
troutner says to (00:34:39):
Joanne Troutner from Indiana here thanks to tweet from Liz
Liz Kolb says (00:34:54):
Hi Joanne Thanks for joining
Peggy_G says to (00:35:37):
sorry I missed the beginning--curious if the student teachers had any issues getting permission to use cell phones in their classrooms?
Liz Kolb says (00:35:44):
Katie---9th grade English--Romeo and Juliet
Liz Kolb says (00:35:53):
Used http://drop.io
Liz Kolb says (00:36:07):
@Peggy good question will ask...
Peggy_G says to (00:36:10):
excellent idea!!
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:36:19):
Hi, Joanne
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:36:26):
Hi, Peggy!
Peggy_G says to (00:36:41):
what percent of the students chose to call in their assignment?
Peggy_G says to (00:38:19):
that makes sense--homework so no issues with permission :-)
Peggy_G says to (00:39:18):
what a high compliment from your mentor teacher!! :-)
Peggy_G says to (00:40:04):
that is so exciting that you had that kind of impact on the other teachers in the school!
Liz Kolb says (00:40:26):
@Peggy I agree...a great way for student teachers to teach the vets!
Peggy_G says to (00:40:45):
absolutely!! definitely helps when applying for a job!
Liz Kolb says (00:42:28):
Example of a blog post from a student teacher about their wiffiti cell phone project http://anlingua.blogspot.com/2009/03/wiffiti-bringing-cell-phones-in.html
Peggy_G says to (00:45:32):
did you grade those assignments differently whether they used cell phones or not?
Peggy_G says to (00:46:18):
I think 50% was a great response for something so new and different for them!
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:46:25):
I agree, peggy.
Peggy_G says to (00:47:34):
a long distance charge would definitely be a problem
Peggy_G says to (00:48:10):
I had a lot of university students who tried to use that same excuse--blame it on the technology if the assignment was missing :-)
Paul R Wood says to (00:49:23):
Just got home from work.
Liz Kolb says (00:49:23):
Time to teach how to make sure the technology saved...make students responsible for their own back-up!
Liz Kolb says (00:49:26):
Hi Paul
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:49:33):
Welcome, Paul!
Paul R Wood says to (00:49:42):
Hi Liz Hi Jeff
Peggy_G says to (00:49:47):
interesting thought about the retention of information--seems to me the cell phone experience would definitely help with the retention--just like we remember the field trips from our school days!
Paul R Wood says to (00:50:26):
I always think when you are working in the student's world the memory will be better.
Peggy_G says to (00:51:09):
it seems like the more you use the tool the more comfortable the students become and the focus can be more on the content than the tool
Liz Kolb says (00:51:19):
@peggy good point about comfort
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:51:23):
@peggy...YES!
Peggy_G says to (00:52:49):
lots of times (for teachers and kids alike) you need a chance to "Play" with the tool before you do something for "real"--maybe they could have tried that??
Paul R Wood says to (00:53:22):
The play part could come from trying different ways to use the tool.
Peggy_G says to (00:53:36):
that is fantastic analysis of the learning experience! you already sound like an awesome teacher!!
Paul R Wood says to (00:53:43):
We always have to model appropriate uses.
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:53:57):
Katie IS a special one...you're so right, Peggy.
Liz Kolb says (00:54:01):
Interesting how we as teachers also present and think of cell phones as toys even when we are using them as tools. Good lesson on how to model the way we want students to use the devices.
Paul R Wood says to (00:55:19):
@Liz I don't know I see a netbook as a toy but my real tool for so many things is my phone.
troutner says to (00:56:02):
Any teaching about how to make quick notes to help with the oral piece?
Liz Kolb says (00:56:55):
@Paul good point!! I need an iPhone!
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:57:01):
Joanne, I'm not sure that I grasp your question...could you reframe it for me?
Peggy_G says to (00:57:27):
many people don't like to hear their own voices on microphones/recordings regardless of whether it's a cell phone or not
Peggy_G says to (00:58:24):
voicethread might provide a good beginning experiece for recording their voices as responses to something
Peggy_G says to (00:58:58):
those are great ideas!!
Paul R Wood says to (00:59:09):
Most phones have mp3 capability now so should work well
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:59:10):
That's a good suggestion (VT), Peggy
Peggy_G says to (00:59:19):
so wise!! start small!!
Paul R Wood says to (00:59:35):
Good points
Peggy_G says to (00:59:59):
what excellent information!! As a former principal I would love to hire both of you!!!!
troutner says to (01:00:11):
I'm thinking having students jot some quick note before doing the cell phone call would be good.
Liz Kolb says (01:00:12):
Thank you all for joining us!
Paul R Wood says to (01:00:26):
Good luck and thanks all
Peggy_G says to (01:00:26):
blogtalkradio is definitely not tolerant of any spare minutes!!
Liz Kolb says (01:00:38):
Katie and Rena are on twitter at @refranco and @kglupker
Peggy_G says to (01:01:16):
Good luck to Katie and Rena!! Thanks for their twitter names! I'll follow them :-)
Liz Kolb says (01:01:24):
@Peggy Thank you! They will love that!
Peggy_G says to (01:02:18):
Thanks for another great conversation Liz and Jeff!

Cell Phone Contract Tips

Cell phones (telefone celular) are increasingly used in the modern world. They are no longer a luxury, but are considered a need. They can send and receive e-mail, get information on news, entertainment, make a call home while traveling and contact the police or the ambulance during an emergency.

The radio, telephone and computer technology fused together to make the cell phone technology. Nevertheless, with the advancing technology, marketing became much tougher, and cell phone operators devised numerous clauses in their contracts to ensure that their competitors do not erode their customer base. Thus the cell phone contract was born.

A cell phone (telefone celular) contract is an agreement between the buyer and the wireless cell phone service provider. Usually it is of 1 or 2 years of duration, during which a consumer is legally bound to remain with the wireless service provider. Certain operators give a trial period to their consumers. After the trial period of 14 or 30 days is over, when the contract is entered upon and the phone is bought, the penalty for breaking the contract can range from $150 to $600, depending on where the phone was bought.

Before the contract finishes, if a new phone is to be bought, then some companies give a customer loyalty discount, which in effect extends the contract. This may prove to be expensive when compared to buying a new phone with a good discount. Thus, you may be locked in to a single operator, without your knowing it, if you do not read and understand the terms of the cell phone contract.

If one is not satisfied with the service provided by the cell phone (telefone celular) service provider, then one can come out of the contract, without paying a termination fee, if someone else is willing to go through the contract for the remaining period. Finding someone willing to undertake this may be difficult. Numerous websites have come up which help you in finding someone to transfer your contract to, however cell phone service providers do not endorse such websites as they only connect the buyer and the seller, doing nothing with the actual transfer.

Thus once you find a buyer for your cell phone contract, you have to contact your cell phone service provider to complete the transfer. This may take quite some time, as your provider will do a credit check on the buyer and if the creditworthiness is not found sufficient for the contract, the transfer will not take place. In case the transfer does take place, then you have the option of keeping the same number that you originally had. Usually, it has been seen that with transfers, you may have to supply the cell phone also as a free incentive to the buyer. High-end cell phones offered free along with the transfer usually get buyers within a couple of days.

Cell phone (telefone celular) service providers generally give a trial period before enforcing the contract term, which may be of 1-year or 2-year duration. Almost all providers give at least 14 to 30 days of trail period. A 1-year cell phone contract has a shorter commitment period, which may prove to be beneficial if the phone needs repairs, or is lost.

In addition, since the period is short, one may avail of new discounts that come up. After the term of 1-year ends, the phone can be kept without any contract and no penalty is charged for quitting. However, in a 1-year contract, the activation fee and/or the phone may not be cheap. Certain discounts and promotional offers cannot be availed of as in a 2-year period.

In a 2-year cell phone (telefone celular) contract, the activation fee and/or the phone may not be expensive. Huge discounts on the phone may be availed. Special promotions may be availed. However, since the phone is kept for a longer duration, more money may be spent on repairing, insuring, or replacing. The opportunity to buy a new phone reduces, and thus may not be eligible to switch cell phone service providers. Expensive phones may also opt for phone replacement insurance plans. However, due to the costs of such plans, few subscribe to these plans.

Pre-Paid or No Contract cell phones (telefone celular) are not available with all cell phone service providers. They are attractive as they require no commitment, the credit history is unimportant, and there is no penalty for quitting. However, call charges may be more expensive, and no promotional discounts etc., may be availed of.

It is always advisable to read and fully understand the terms of the cell phone provider as stated in the contract form, including the fine print, before signing the cell phone (telefone celular) contract.

This article is under GNU FDL license and can be distributed without any previous authorization from the author. However the author's name and all the URLs (links) mentioned in the article and biography must be kept.

Search Engine for Mobile Applications!

Searching through the thousands of applications, videos, songs, photos, and ring tones for cell phones just became a little easier for me with Everythingformymobile. This site searches on any topic for media or applications that will work on mobile devices. For example if I was looking for videos on how to use FOIL in mathematics, I could click on the video tab, and type in "Math and FOIL". After a few seconds of searching, videos would appear that I could easily upload to my own or my students' mobile devices.

Classroom Integration
I envision Everythingformymobile as an awesome resource for teachers who would like their students to take their learning "to go".

Video Reviews
Students who need extra review could upload some videos on the subject to their cell phones and always have a mobile tutor.

Mobile Projects
Teachers could search for mobile applications that perform functions that they are interesting in using for classroom projects. For example an English teacher who would like her students to write a text message novel. The English teacher could click on the Applications tab and then search for "Novel and Text Message."

Photo Reviews
Students could create photo collages to send to their cell phones by typing in a concept such as "vectors" or "8th amendment" in the Photo search tab. Then they could upload the images that best remind them of the concept and it's definition.

Cell Phones in Learning Radio Show: Wed May 20th: Interview with California Educator Joe Wood

Chat Transcript:
Liz Kolb says (00:31:47):
Welcome everyone! We are talking with Joe Wood today!
Liz Kolb says (00:34:31):
Is anyone having a hard time hearing Jeff?
Peggy_G says to (00:34:45):
Hi-was just about to ask about the audio-very hard to hear
Peggy_G says to (00:35:15):
your audio is excellent, Liz
Liz Kolb says (00:35:47):
http://task.fm
Peggy_G says to (00:36:23):
yes hyperlinks :-) great
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:37:09):
http://www.lsri.nottingham.ac.uk/ehy/learning_with_mobile_technologie.htm
Peggy_G says to (00:37:47):
how does it compare with some of the other reminders like Remember the Milk ?
Peggy_G says to (00:38:46):
that's a great tip about asking for educator accounts (free)
Peggy_G says to (00:39:07):
remember the milk has reminders on Google calendars which I can get on my iphone
Peggy_G says to (00:39:36):
Paul Wood??
Paul R Wood says to (00:39:50):
Joe Wood. I am Paul Wood
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:39:56):
Joe Wood is our guest
Peggy_G says to (00:40:06):
Wow! 2 famous Woods :-)
Liz Kolb says (00:40:07):
http://joewoodonline.com
Paul R Wood says to (00:40:20):
I was about to say I like his last name.
Liz Kolb says (00:40:20):
Hi Paul!
Paul R Wood says to (00:40:26):
Hey Liz.
Paul R Wood says to (00:40:33):
Hey Jeff
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:40:55):
Hi, Paul
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:41:00):
http://www.joewoodonline.com/cell-phones-qipit/
Peggy_G says to (00:41:26):
always exciting to hear from teachers who are using cell phones in their classrooms :-)
Peggy_G says to (00:42:10):
can we follow Joe on Twitter?
Liz Kolb says (00:42:27):
Yes @ucdjoe on twitter
Peggy_G says to (00:42:44):
thanks
Liz Kolb says (00:42:47):
Hi Richard! Thanks for joining
Richard@MobileEd.org says to (00:42:59):
Liz!
Liz Kolb says (00:45:11):
http://wiffiti.com
Peggy_G says to (00:45:28):
that is always amazing to me! when we opened the wireless on a Friday night for a conference event, within 10 minutes there were at least 50 students on it :-) Resourceful!!
Paul R Wood says to (00:46:04):
The kids will always find the hot spots.
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:46:14):
@peggy: Wow! That's remarkable...
Peggy_G says to (00:46:40):
those are all such great suggestions!
Richard@MobileEd.org says to (00:48:04):
I haven't tried this yet, but Nokia's PointAndFind might be highly relevant to the image/science lessons here.
Richard@MobileEd.org says to (00:48:13):
http://pointandfind.nokia.com/?home
Liz Kolb says (00:49:20):
Jeff we are having a hard time hearing you again
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:49:33):
is it better now?
Peggy_G says to (00:50:03):
not really
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:50:17):
ok...I better call back in, Thanks, Peggy.
Peggy_G says to (00:51:35):
those are such important conversations to have about ethical behaviors and such an important reason for allowing cell phones in school
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:52:07):
YES! As a wise person I know says...I do opportunties, not problems ;-)
kchichester says to (00:52:09):
Joe also has his own podcast. http://edtechclassroom.com . He has lots to share. He tweets but not that often. He is more active on facebook.
Paul R Wood says to (00:52:10):
We have to model for our students the best ways to use these tools.
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:52:41):
@kchichester: Thanks for the info.
Peggy_G says to (00:53:07):
great link for Joe's podcasts! thanks!
kchichester says to (00:53:48):
I'm a big fan of Joe.
Liz Kolb says (00:54:11):
Joe ROCKS
Peggy_G says to (00:54:25):
I love the studycasts for downloading to ipods to help with studying for tests, learning vocabulary, etc.
Liz Kolb says (00:54:43):
Peggy can you link us to that site?
Peggy_G says to (00:55:25):
http://www.mrcoley.com/studycast/index.htm
Peggy_G says to (00:55:32):
Brent Coley's site
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:55:37):
Terrific...thanks,Peggy
kchichester says to (00:55:47):
@ Liz Kolb I was a guest on his show. When he found out I was from metro Detroit, the first thing he wanted to know is if I knew you.
Paul R Wood says to (00:56:31):
Parents are more than happy to have someone show the students what is going on and how to get more out of the tool
Peggy_G says to (00:56:56):
what's your favorite SMS/cell phone polling/survey system?
Peggy_G says to (00:57:31):
that is true- No overtime for BlogTalkRadio :-)
Richard@MobileEd.org says to (00:59:17):
Thanks, Joe.
Paul R Wood says to (00:59:22):
Thanks Joe. Thanks Liz & Jeff.
Peggy_G says to (00:59:25):
free or paid version?
Paul R Wood says to (00:59:32):
Polleverywhere is a great one to use.
Peggy_G says to (00:59:37):
thank you all! great show!
Jeff Stanzler says to (00:59:40):
Thanks, Joe!!
Liz Kolb says (01:00:06):
Thank you everyone for joining us! Isn't Joe fantastic!!!
Peggy_G says to (01:00:11):
thanks :-)
Paul R Wood says to (01:00:14):
I actually use the smallest paid version of polleverywhere.
Liz Kolb says (01:00:30):
@paul for more responses?
Peggy_G says to (01:00:33):
limit is 30 people, right?
Paul R Wood says to (01:00:52):
I even allow students to put together polls as they teach review sessions on our subjects
Paul R Wood says to (01:01:04):
I think it is 50 responses
Jeff Stanzler says to (01:01:09):
What a cool idea, Paul.
Peggy_G says to (01:01:21):
fantastic suggestions Paul!
Peggy_G says to (01:01:35):
they learn so much more (and remember it) when they are creating the reviews
Liz Kolb says (01:01:38):
@paul I love the idea of students creating the polls and coming up with new ways to use cells in learning! Let them focus on the educative value of the phone
Paul R Wood says to (01:01:40):
Had a student pur together 10 questions on the book Friday Night Lights and asked short answer questions
Liz Kolb says (01:02:02):
I bet she loved that assignment!
Liz Kolb says (01:02:10):
And probably remembers a lot from the book
Paul R Wood says to (01:02:19):
Plus my accountant makes it worthwhile with those unreimbursed expenses for school
Jeff Stanzler says to (01:02:22):
@Paul: Giving the kids owndership...terrific
Peggy_G says to (01:02:27):
Quizlet is also great for students to create questions online but I don't think you can do it with cell phones-just internet based
Jeff Stanzler says to (01:02:50):
@peggy: I'll have to check that one out.
Liz Kolb says (01:03:00):
@peggy there is a mobile quiz (that is SMS) I cannot remember the name though
Paul R Wood says to (01:03:35):
Liz are you in Detroit?
Peggy_G says to (01:03:58):
Quizlet was created by a 15-year old and it has millions of users!! :-) amazing tool!
Liz Kolb says (01:04:08):
here it is http://www.surveygizmo.com
Peggy_G says to (01:04:17):
thanks Liz
Paul R Wood says to (01:04:29):
Will need to look those over
Liz Kolb says (01:04:36):
Right outside of Detroit in Ann Arbor...so is Jeff
Paul R Wood says to (01:04:53):
Your Tigers are killing my Rangers in baseball.
Jeff Stanzler says to (01:04:58):
Thanks, everyone...sorry to drop out on you, Liz!
Liz Kolb says (01:05:09):
Ha! Was just at a game over the weekend
Peggy_G says to (01:05:28):
Great show! Thanks!
Liz Kolb says (01:05:27):
@Jeff hey, that is technology!
Paul R Wood says to (01:05:38):
Thanks for all you and Jeff do for us. Enjoyed the show.