10 Interesting Ways to use Ultra Mobile Personal Computers UMPCs in the Classroom

1. 10 Interesting Ways to use Ultra Mobile Personal Computers UMPCs in the Classroom Ideas for using a set of UMPCs (also useful for a class with 1:1 use) e-learning curriculum team ELIM group

2. Wikipedia definition: "A UMPC is a small to medium sized, light-weight, low-cost, energy-efficient laptop, generally optimized for internet based services such as web browsing and e-mailing." UMPCs are usually inexpensive with impressive battery lives. This, and their smaller form-factor than standard laptops make them ideal for use in the classroom! The purpose of this presentation is to share ways that a set of UMPCs can be used to enhance classroom-based learning. e-learning curriculum team ELIM group

3. 1. Set a group research task Set a learning objective and divide the class into small groups. Suggest some websites, a list of links in Fronter or create a custom search using services such as Rollyo or Google Custom Search. Learners can present their findings in Fronter.Feedback can be done via projector and/or interactive whiteboard. e-learning curriculum team ELIM group

4. Not all learners are comfortable speaking out in a classroom situation. Use of the UMPC can provide a voice for those learners. Creating a backchannel, a kind of 'digital dialogue' to accompany your lesson. UMPCs could be available for quieter learners to record thoughts and questions, A rota system may be needed. 2. Create a 'backchannel' e-learning curriculum team ELIM group

5. 3. Learners to create a digital comments record Make it standard practice in your lessons to pass however many UMPCS you have around the class. Learners can then add the comments you have written on their non-digital work (exercise books, posters, portfolios, etc.) to a Fronter document.. This means not only do you as ateacher have a record of every comment, but each student HAS to read the comments you have made. They also have the opportunity to reply to it! e-learning curriculum team ELIM group

6. 4. Create carousel activities Add a digital element to 'carousel' lessons - where learners will be visiting different learning 'islands' to complete activities. The activities on the UMPCs depend, of course, on the learning purpose, but could include Flash-based games such as those at Schoolhistory.co.uk, or some of the 75 listed at ZaidLearn! e-learning curriculum team ELIM group

7. 5. Have learners edit (Simple) Wikipedia Create a Fronter document (multiple authors) or Fronter pages to act as your class or school Wikipedia. When you have finished a topic, have students show what they know by creating or editing the Fronter document or page(s) that relate to what they have learned. Alternatively for a wider audience: Simple Wikipedia is at http://simple.wikipedia.org and is aimed for explaining concepts, ideas, events and people in simpler ways than the main wiki. Simple Wikipedia does not have as many articles as its counterpart. You can change that! e-learning curriculum team ELIM group

8. 6. Record non-written assessments Most UMPCs come with a webcam and microphone. Use these features to record students within a safe school environment telling you what they know. For example: A video diary of a project - what they have learned and the next step they are going to take. Pronunciation and grammar in language lessons. Interviews to demonstrate in-depth knowledge and learning. Role-play e-learning curriculum team ELIM group

9. 7. Create a digital archive Have learners collect photos, videos and audio recordings related to their topic. This could either be at home, on a field trip or during a lesson. Multimedia files can be transferred to the UMPCs using Bluetooth or in-built card readers. These can then be transferred onto the school network, Fronter or a class blog/wiki. e-learning curriculum team ELIM group

10. 8. Be in more than one place at a time Record yourself teaching key concepts and ideas. Make these available via Fronter. Learners can then borrow a UMPC to achieve 'Just-In-Time' learning for when they're stuck! e-learning curriculum team ELIM group

11. 9. TutPup for DS style brain training Tutpup provides simple, fun, competitive games that help children learn and gain confidence with Maths, English and other key skills and knowledge. The games are drill and practice with a social network twist. Children can sign up with a code provide by their teacher. They compete is short games with other children around the world. Use the UMPC for reinforcing tables and number bonds in short, engaging games. As a lesson starter or take turns during a work period. e-learning curriculum team ELIM group

12. 10. Assessment for Learning Create a ‘mark scheme’: A class task is outlined in a Fronter document or presentation. Small groups of learners use the UMPC to create the assessment objectives. That way they all know what a good piece of work looks like before they begin. Encourage peer assessment: Place exemplar work in a collaborative area of Fronter, for learners to assess. Develop a culture of supportive feedback amongst the group. e-learning curriculum team ELIM group