Preparing Teachers to Integrate Handheld Technology into the Classroom

Abstract

Handheld computers represent a recent addition to the technology equipment available for productivity, teaching and learning. There are hundreds of programs available for handheld computers. Since the typical cost of a handheld computer is between $80 and $300 they represent a viable alternative for schools that want to provide a computer for each student. Handheld computers can be used by teachers to assist their students in learning various skills and content. There are several hardware accessories available for handheld computers and hundreds of software programs to assist students in learning skills and content. There are software programs available for concept organization and critical thinking, word processing and report development, analysis and electronic spreadsheets, science, and math. When teachers employing handheld computers were examined, 90% described handheld computers as an "effective instructional tool." (SRI, 2002, p.iii)