Smartphones are nothing new, but the way they are being used in the classroom is. From lectures to help with homework. Smartphones, when used right, can be a great help. Here are some suggestions for students and parents who want to take advantage of cell phone technology this school year:

            - White board snapshots: Cell phones come with clear, powerful cameras now. They can zoom and focus like never before. Use your phone to snap a picture of notes the teacher wrote on the whiteboard before it gets deleted for the next lesson or class.

            - Lecture recordings: When a teacher is speaking, it may make sense at the time, but how do you remember what was said hours later? Hit record on your recorder and reference it later.

            - Applications: Apps aren't only for fun and games. You can find several educational tools at the app store. All you have to do is search!