Beyond Apps and Activities

Abstract

This chapter examines the importance of intentionally planning with an instructional framework to leverage the use of technology. The author provides an integration framework to support middle and secondary language arts teachers. The author shares how she has refined the process of using mobile phones in her classroom. Initially, her focus was on trying new mobile applications in her language arts classroom by adding technology to existing lessons or adapting lessons to use with the mobile application. Next, she became more strategic, examining student thinking and actions throughout a daily workshop lesson and developing and applying a resource guide for mobile applications specifically geared for each lesson segment of class: opening, work period, and closing. No longer focused on application fit or application first, the author shares the transformative power of deliberately planning for the use of technology: a practice that has improved her clarity and amplified student learning.