As an instructional designer and technician, I take the responsibility of innovation in the classroom very seriously. I believe it is the duty of an instructional designer to stay current with the ever changing possibilities of technology. I am blessed to be in a position where I am able to pursue my passion for education and technology, and share my discoveries with like-minded educators.
A few weeks ago, I was able to connect with Ben Brautigam, who manages Advanced Learning Projects in Central IT at Penn State University. In his presentation at the 2015 Mac Admins Conference, he outlines a recognizable problem faced by educators across the country. When faced with a challenge where technology is needed, students will typically say, “I wish I knew that existed [before now].” He then presents wearable technology, especially in this case, the Apple Watch, as an ideal vehicle for transmitting those needs effectively to the people who can provide the tools needed. He and his colleagues created an app for the Watch, called Summons, that can send immediate recommendations for technology use. You can watch the YouTube video describing his app, here.
I do think this is a great app, and that the concept is great for the Watch. However, it could just as easily work on the phone without the watch. (I think the professor in the front of the classroom who needs A/V help is a better example of where this app would shine. The professor wouldn’t need to get his or her phone out to complete the request, and that would be useful and least disruptive to the class.)
I think the greater implications, though, lie in the immediacy of having the Watch connected. The bundled Activity app is a good example of this. After having the Watch on for a few days now, I am gently reminded every hour to stand up to increase circulation. The Watch then records that activity and provides a report throughout the day to inform me of my progress. If I don’t stand every hour, I will miss that checkpoint, and I will not reach my goal for the day.
This is an example of non-intrusive game-based learning. Using haptic-feedback, the Watch gently cues me to complete an activity, without disrupting my day or those around me. In addition, the concept is gamified by the use of a real-time “score,” represented by a circle graph. I can adjust my goals as I see fit, making the app truly differentiated.
My to-do list, Things, works in a similar way, as does messages, calendar, and some of my other productivity apps, like Slack.
I see infinite possibilities for teachers to interact with students through the Watch apps. Penn State is developing their own app for the classroom. I currently don’t have the expertise to do that, but I do have the ability to commandeer some of the apps already developed. I am excited to learn more about the Apple Watch and how it can be used in the classroom.
I’ll keep you posted!
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