Mobile devices in the classroom??

So, the question is posed; should mobile devices such as iPhones, iPods and iPads be used in the classroom?

Straight up I am going to say YES!!!!!!!

These mobile devices are the here and now of technology and I think they are an excellent resource in the classroom.
Already those reading this might think, 'yeah, but what about off-task behaviour, technology failing and socioeconomic differences?'
To me these are all excuses which result in limiting student learning. All these issues can be overcome by simple planning and putting in measures that ensure success.
Of course I acknowledge that the budget in some schools may be an issue but this can be overcome and is well worth the money that goes into the purchasing of these devices.

The path I would be taking in order to implement these mobile devices into classrooms is to firstly purchase a school set that can be loaned out to classrooms.
For example: Average class of 25 students, with students sharing an iPod at the price of $188 per unit. 13 iPods would cost $2444. That is pretty affordable when compared to the cost of desktop computers or laptops.
Buying a school set also eliminates the socioeconomic factor as all students have the equal opportunity to use an iPod. Using iPods also limits off task behaviour as the students are engaged. Additionally, software can be loaded that prohibits the access to specific sites (similar to most schools already existing proxy blocker) and only educational aps can be downloaded.
Technology failing can be overcome with ensuring the iPods are always fully charged and properally handled.

The positives far out weigh the negatives (which can be overcomed).

• 40 hour battery life when fully charged
• Wireless operations with the ability to use them anywhere and connect to the internet with a wireless hotspot!
• Video recording, video conferencing, camera, voice recordings
• iMessaging students information or instructions
• Easy uploading to computers to save information recorded
• Countless aps that engage and educate students

I know that as a LM of the future I will be definitely using mobile devices in my classroom to enhance my students learning.