Using Smartphones
to Aid Online Teaching

Albeit teachers frequently prohibit mobiles in physical classrooms to avoid distractions, the device’s use among learners is likely more pervasive than anticipated: A survey of 1,500 learners found that almost 80 percent do most, or even all, of their coursework on their phones. Students use their phones to access reading materials, communicate with educators, conduct research and access learning management systems (LSMs). Learners report writing assignments and essays directly on their smartphone, suggesting the device can replace PCs, laptops and tablets in many contexts.

So, what is the potential for using smartphones to aid online teaching as part of distance learning?

What You Should Know About Smartphones

Smartphones, even the most affordable, offer a wonderland of features and functionality. Of interest to online educators and learners are:

• Enhanced capacity: Increased storage capacity allows learners to download and store materials to access offline later, while improved speed facilitates responsiveness, especially when participating online during live classes.
• Generous display: Smartphones offer wide screens to enhance the visibility of detailed content and enable easy scrolling, navigation, and interaction with the content (such as editing and sharing).
• High-quality camera: While a camera is commonly associated with leisure activities, a camera feature allows more significant interaction in learner assignments and tasks, especially for practical learning, feedback and assessment. These days, even more affordable, mid-range smartphones provide good quality cameras and video.
• Security: A smartphone is more secure than a desktop computer (which is especially prone to phishing attacks that encourage users to install software on their computer).  smartphones have built-in encrypted file systems, password access, and facial or fingerprint access for added security.
• Optimized connectivity: When no cellular connection is available, smartphones allow Wi-Fi access to maximize class attendance, facilitate 24/7 and remote access to learning materials, and allow learners to complete assignments on the go.
• Familiarity: Emerging generations show a preference for mobile phones for various activities, including communication, content consumption, and online shopping. Intuitively then, it makes sense to incorporate the device into learning and work strategies.     

Smartphones are more than capable of performing several vital functions required for virtual teaching and learning. How can they best be utilized to enhance online education?