Professional Inquiry Project
by Heather Campbell

Technology is becoming more available each year. It is common for students to have personal devices such as cellphones or tablets. Schools have access to numerous technologies as well. Most classrooms have projectors, computer labs and/or laptop carts. Available technologies have changed the way educational instruction is approached. 

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With the increase of available personal devices in students, there is also the growing issue of device distractions. Students are becoming distracted by their devices in class. Teachers are becoming cellphone police, so that students are engaged in learning instead of texting or playing games on their phones. Students are increasingly becoming frustrated with teachers as cellphones are confiscated. Student-teacher relationships are suffering, while student learning is affected.  

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What if teachers can utilize student personal devices for their learning, instead of fighting the distraction? What if students can use their devices for learning supports that are universal? What if teachers can maximize student learning by implementing appropriate technologies that improve student engagement and reduce device distraction?

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This professional inquiry project looks at utilizing technology in class to meet the following needs: 

• Reduce device distraction in class and increase student engagement 

• Engage students in learning materials through presentations, videos, music and various multi—media resources - "incorporating music videos can add interest for students and teachers alike" (Turn It On and Turn It Up: Incorporating Music Videos in the ELA Classroom")

• Increase independent interventions for student exceptional needs such as: speech to text for ESL students, calming resources for students that struggle with emotional difficulties (anxiety, depression) and support students that struggle with attention and engagement.