In accordance with the convention theme, this session will explore how we can move beyond the borders of the traditional classroom and welcome the potential engagement the use of mobile devices can offer. This presentation will begin by briefly looking at the research that supports the use of mobile devices and laptops in the language learning classroom, and will explore some of the more accessible, pedagogically practical, and affordable apps available.

Attendees will be expected to bring their own smartphones, tablets, or computers to play along and try out some of the best choices in each category. The diversity of platforms the session participants have in their pockets will help us illustrate the flexibility and patience required to get started with a mobile-enabled classroom, and can help us see which apps are more prone to bugs and difficulties on which platforms. By the end of the session, each teacher will get to experience the key features of Nearpod, SeeSaw, Plickers, and Socrative, in addition to some fresh ideas for how these tools could help them engage their cellphone-addicted students on Monday morning

Courtney Elizabeth King has an MA in English literature as well as an MA TESOL (in progress). Her research interests include critical ELT, mobile learning technologies, and genre-based writing teaching. Her nonteacher hobbies include yoga, knitting, coloring, and anything else that can calm her always overworked mind.