Kim's Journal # 4

JOURNAL # 4
From Toy to Tool: Audioblogging with Cell Phones
By Liz Kolb

According to Liz Kolb, cell phones do not have to be a classroom hindrance; they can be quite beneficial when used to construct knowledge. Kolb suggests that students can create audioblogs, using their cell phones as well as collect and store data, and develop multimedia projects. New cell phones are equipped with the capability of recording and posting live interviews. This article is full of ideas for audioblogging.
I am very excited to see that the author included some dialogue about the concerns with audioblogging. As I read through the article, I too had concerns. Copyright issues, although important were not my primary concern. My concern is protecting the students’ identity and safety. The author expresses concern over cell phone plans and the cost of internet sites. My concern is for the students gaining access to a cell phone.

QUESTION # 1

What age do you think is appropriate for students to use this technology?

Although I believe students as early as third grade can master the art of audioblogging, I don’t think they are ready for the responsibility of protecting themselves online. Some may disagree, but I would not recommend audioblogging for anyone under the age of 12.


QUESTION # 2

What affect does access to technology have on a parents’ control of their children?

Once a child has access to technology, how they use it is beyond a parents’ control. Sure parents can use filters and talk to their children about dangers of the internet, etc., but it is impossible to monitor a child’s every move. Thanks to “education,” children know how to access more information than they can handle. I hate to be a pessimist, but it’s just a matter of time before they stumble onto something that is inappropriate.