I have been reading, viewing, and hearing a lot about the future of education recently and it has really caught my interest. More specifically, I've been reading about how new technology is being fused into the classroom via video visual aids, instant communication with professors and students, and of course the internet's cornucopia of endless knowledge.
Today Apple unleashed its new 3G iPhone. I have personally been craving such a device for almost a year, but have found the price a little too steep for my preferences, my parents agree considering they pay the cell phone bill. However, there has been a dramatic change. Not only has the price dropped considerably, but a whole new adventure has begun in discovering the new capabilities of the iPhone. They are truly endless. From 3D gaming to biding on Ebay, new applications developed by private developers will unleash the full furry of such a device.
This is all great, but what does it have to do with education? During the keynote presentation Steve Job's and other made at the Worldwide Developer's Conference today, Apple discussed the fusion of the iPhone into enterprises. All sorts of companies, including commercial banks, pharmaceutical companies, and entertainment companies, will be able to fully integrate their business into the iPhone what seems to be flawlessly.
All these new programs and applications got me thinking that I really could use this product now before I got into the working world. I would love for a blackboard program to be fully functional with my iPhone. I would love to not have to bring my laptop with me everywhere and risk loosing it, when all I really need is to look at my assignments or view the online discussion my class is having. Blogging for literature based classes could be done from anywhere, I wouldn't need a WiFi network, just cellphone service. I could take sample quizzes to help study for my test during my 9 hour club hockey bus ride to Atlanta. A continuous flow of ideas and applications of this new technology is happening right now. I just wish I knew how to develop and write programs.
I am going to keep researching this new technology and coming up with new applications it could have to make my life more efficient and richer.
