Apps for Innovative Educators with Androids

If you’re an innovative educator with an Android, then you might want to check out Android for Academics. The company’s focus is creating smartphone applications for educators. There are currently four applications on the Android market, and several more in the works. Most of their applications are free.

The applications.

1. Gradebook
   With Gradebook, there is no need to have a separate gradebook on your phone because the program is designed to interact with a Google Docs Spreadsheet. Give the program your spreadsheet info, and you can easily access and edit grades from the phone with a wide range of quick entry options. Another novel feature is that you can email students auto-generated grade reports.
2. Attendance
   This app offers an easy way to take attendance with an Android phone. Like Gradebook this is designed to interact with a Google Docs Spreadsheet, so that all of your information is automatically stored in the cloud.
3. Grade Rubric
   Grade Rubric gives professors a quick and easy way to grade using grade rubrics. Novel features include auto-generated a grade reports that can be emailed to students, and the ability to record grades inside of Gradebook.
4. Grade Ticker
   A quick and easy calculator for professors who grade assignments by ticking off points as they grade. This app also integrates with Gradebook for quick, efficient recording.
   

Most of the Android for Academics apps are available for free, and they plan on releasing a free version of Gradebook soon. They also have plans to expand their apps to the iPhone platform. Visit www.androidforacademics.com for more details.

For more ideas on using Androids in the classroom visit this list from Androids for Apps co-founder Andrew Cullison. I don't have an Android, but I like what I see. I'd love to hear what those with the devices think of their use as educational tools.

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Ideas for Managing the Cell Phone Classroom

As with the use of any technology in the classroom, when using cell phones in the classroom you must have classroom management procedures in place. The nice thing, however, about cell phones is that you don’t have to worry about distribution, collection, storage, imaging , and charging of devices.

Below is a possible classroom management protocol. You’ll want to modify this to your particular classroom needs and discuss with students prior to introducing cell phones into the classroom.

• Upon entry and departure of class please ensure cell phones are turned off and stored in your backpack.
• On days when we are using cell phones for learning please ensure they are set to silent.
• Only use phones for learning purposes related to classwork.
• When phones are not in use on a day we are using cells for learning place them face down on the upper right side of your desk.
• If you notice someone in the class using their cell phone inappropriately, remind them to use proper cell phone etiquette.
• If at any time your teacher feels you are not using your cell phone for class work you will be asked to place your phone in the bin in the front of the room with a post-it indicating your name and class.
• After the first infraction each month you can collect your phone at the end of class.
• After the second infraction you can collect your phone at the end of the day.
• After the third infraction your parent or guardian will be asked to retrieve your phone. If you use the phone inappropriately again during the month your parent or guardian will be required to retrieve your phone.
• At the beginning of each month, you have a clean slate.

Be open to modifications or suggestions your students may have. They may have some good ideas. Note however, that this should be determined and posted in advance of using cell phones in the classroom. Additionally, if you work with your students to develop this policy, you may find that they build a strong, comprehensive plan for which they will take ownership and be more likely to follow.

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