According to Mobiledia, a new web app tailored to the classroom integrates text message and social media to connect teachers to students with familiar, easy-to-use technology that provides instant metrics for educators through a secure digital interface.
Classroom technology tools like an interactive whiteboard, tablet computer or
DLP projector offer hardware options that bring classrooms into the digital age, and software like the text messaging application provides classes with another unique way to communicate and collaborate.
Schools are using the program as an alternative to direct social networking because it is more secure and avoids the pitfalls of public social networking interaction between students and teachers. The app provides each student and teacher a unique, 10-digit number to connect through that is accessible only to members of the selected group.
This allows teachers to ensure that their communication with students is appropriate. While overt abuse and misuse is rare, it can be difficult for educators to navigate the narrow avenues of appropriate use on public social networking sites, many of which have complex privacy agreements.
Though in its infancy, the program has received favorable reviews from initial users. Programmers say that as it expands, the service will be available to schools for a monthly subscription fee.
