It is not the tool, but how you use it.
However as with any tool, there are benefits and there are drawbacks. The question isn’t about if the smartpen is effective, rather it is about you!
The trick is to step back and analyze the tool’s real value in helping you accomplish your teaching tasks. If you’re not evaluating the way that you’re using this or any other technology to get things done, then you may be in danger of technology overload and become overwhelmed by the number of tools at your disposal.
One way to handle is this to really map out the various online or technology tools that you use in your preparation and teaching and then organize and rank them in order of importance to you.
- which tool helps you accomplish the widest variety of tasks on a regular basis.
- which tool is the most effective for what you are doing.
- what is the added value of using one tool over another.
Prepare a chart that summarizes your tasks, the tools used and added value of each tool. Analyzing how you are using the tools in your toolbox will increase your efficiency!