Mobile Technologies in the Classroom

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Video explaining heart rate monitor using i pod with Nike+running program.

Mobile Technologies in the Classroom

As I discussed in a earlier blog (June 3, 2013) technology is much more than the world wide web access through our computers, now with mobile technology of iPods, iPhone and tablets technology is truly everywhere.  I mentioned in the June 3, 2013 how iPads were being used for curriculum's such as physical education with exercise apps.  I think iPads and  iphones can be used to make physical education and health much more interesting in a time when there is a decrease emphasis across the nation in health and PE requirements. Roblyer and Doering point due to emphasis on meeting benchmarks in core subjects less time is being allotted for PE and health (p.378)  However, studies have shown that the decrease emphasis in physical education may be affecting students health.  The number of overweight children in the United States has triple since 1980.  Besides the decrease emphasis in physical education, Roblyer and Doering point out research indicates children are less active due to spending more free time watching TV and playing (Fogel, 2010) computer games (p.381).

Therefore, what I want to discussed today is how technology and apps can benefit students and schools by helping in the instruction in physical education and health with the limited time allotted for these subjects in the majority of school systems today. Consequently, demonstrating how to use technology to increase activity not decrease activity.

Our text reviewed several programs that could be useful technology in physical education classes.  The first one fits into the category of software know as exergaming, “video games that provide physical activity or exercise through interactive play” (Roblyer and Doering, 2013, p.29).  Games such as Dance Dance Revolution (www.ddrgame.com) and Nintendo Wii games with dance pads provide a good alternative to participation to engage students in aerobic activities (p.389).  I think these programs would be very helpful and fun to the students that do not view their selves as athletic.  The Nike + running program highlighted in the video embedded with this blog can be used in conjunction with programs like dance revolution to teach understanding how heart rate monitoring can help increase intensity during exercise, therefore, increasing cardiovascular fitness. 

Banville and Polifko in 2009 (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p.385) “research confirm that video feedback can increase the ability to learn and perform motor skill.” This can be from reviewing video images from video recorder, digital camera, ipad & i phones that can give student immediate feedback.  An example of using video feedback could be as follows, first set up video station for motor skill (Batting –softball).  Place students in small groups, one student hits ball, second student gives feedback from video, and third student records performance in writing (p.386).  Dartfish (www.dartfish.com) is a video software program that can be used for basic motor skill training (elementary school) by physical education teachers and has advanced modes that are used by professional physical therapist and certified athletic trainers to analyze movement.

Four Free Apps for Physical Education & Health.

Nike app for running (www.apple.com/ipod/nike) is a simple, fun app that measures distance ran or walked, pace of run, and calories burned. The app allows you to set your calendar to remind you when to run, and gives points called Nike fuel to keep the student challenged.  It can also be used with heart rate monitors to guide students in intensity of their workout.

Next app is called Loseit (www.loseit.com) which can set goals for losing weight in a safe, healthy way.  Students can learn healthy choices by tracking their calorie intake, and it gives students feedback on percentage of fat, carbohydrates, and proteins in the calorie intake.

Third mobile app is AphaTrainer (www.alphatrainerapp.com). This app allows individual to pick different parts of their body they want to focus on and will recommend workout to target those specific areas.  Program gives examples of each exercise so students learn proper technique and knowledge of how exercises work different parts of the body.  Program will modify workout according to if you are doing it at home or at the gym.

Last app is called Lighting Finder, it has a free trail period then their is a charge if you want to keep it.  Find it at https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/lightning-finder/id406162876?mt=8. 
As physical education instructors, coaches, or athletic trainers safety of our students and athletes should always be our primary concern.  Lighting is a real threat and kills, this app can be on your phone and it will let you know the distance the strikes are from your location and the amount of time between each strike.  Unfortuantely, there is not a certified athletic trainer employed at every high school, therefore this responsiblitly falls on the PE instructor (or coach if sport related) for outdoor activities.  The NATA (National Athletic Trainers Association) recommends waiting 30 minutes once lighting is detected, if no strikes occur in 30 minutes then it is safe to resume activities.