I wonder about the assumptions we make when we propose turning the tools of popular culture (e.g., Facebook, games, cell phone) into learning devices and learning environments. It reminds me of a comment a prof made in a sociology class I was taking (long ago). The comment was based on the premis that adolescents use popular culture as part of their approach to define their identity creating some separation from the adults who have reared and attempt to guide them. The comment basically complained that adolescents were being driven to do weirder and weirder things because adults kept adopting the musical tastes, clothing, etc. of teenagers. In other words – it is healthy to give adolescents some areas in which to explore and call their own.
I think we can successfully take advantage of the participatory web and the devices suited to it while not attempting to define every space and tool as suited to the purposes of formal education. This is my reaction to Facebook and at present also to cell phone (probably smart phone) use. It is true that many K-12 learners have cell phones. It is also true that smart phones have capabilities that allow both download and upload of content allowing participation. However, not all K-12 students have cell phones and many do not have the data plans that would make the cell phone an entry level participatory web tool. I also feel the cell phone has limitations as an input device – I don’t really care that some Japanese middle school girl can enter text on a cell phone faster than I can type. Unusual skills are hardly the basis of recommendation for the many.
If we want to commit to a device that can really make a difference and we believe that access to such a device should be the responsibility of educational institutions, I would urge we explore netbooks. Cost out what a one-year data plan + device costs in comparison. You can easily purchase a netbook for what I pay each year for a smart phone. Consider input capabilities. Consider the inequities promoted when we focus on special opportunities for special tools.
We are clearly moving toward mobile devices and it is interesting for those of us with a budget and time to explore what future capabilities might offer. However, as a practical starting point, I would prefer we follow the netbook toward the phone rather than the phone toward the netbook. I certainly hope my Blackberry is not the learning tool of the future.