SMS Messaging

The use of SMS messaging in education is an effective way of engaging students in a range of learning experiences. The multiple and diverse use of this foundational technology is only limited to the imagination of an educator.

Many studies of the use of this technology in education have revealed the range of ways in which SMS messaging can be used with students creatively, positively and effectively.

Bulk SMS messaging can be used to;

• motivate students
• engage students in live activities
• 'swarm' students to an event
• remind students of key events, retain students and motivate students using a range of creative scenarios

SMS Solutions

SMS messaging is offered by telecommunication providers as a web based portal ( webSMS) or as a PC-to-web solution which includes address books, scheduling, calenders and a range of networked solutions. A range of providers are available including;

• Vodafone Web2TXT
• Optus Redcoal
• MyWebSMS
• Redoxygen

SMS Databasing

Many mobile devices allow more than one message to be sent at a time to one or many people. These messages can also be pre-timed, calenderised and databased for educational purposes. An example of this PDA compatible solution is Mobile Quiz which is a self contained quiz program on your mobile phone. Players can participate in each quiz, using the SMS communication protocol, supported by all major brands of phones.

SMS Security

Many online web profiles now use SMS messaging or web-to-phone confirmation services to ensure the security of information. Many educational organisations now offer students confirmation of information using SMS messaging ie. results, timetabled information.

Activity

1. You will be prompted by the workshop facilitator to provide your mobile phone number for the purposes of this activity. A range of 3 messages will be forwarded to this number.

2. Answer the SMS text message carefully constructing your answer. Return your answer using the send function on your mobile phone.

3. Carefully compose your thoughts on how this application may apply in your educational organisation. In group discussion provide your ideas on how this application might be realised and what strategies you would need to achieve this goal.

* When undertaking this activity with students ensure that you step through the standard mobile ettiquette, response rate expectation and other necessary information to ensure privacy, confidentiality of answers if needed.