Another thing that I thought was really great from the article about iPads for literacy was that it says that iPads and tablets allow students to learn anytime and from anywhere. Students no longer have to be in a computer lab or sitting in front of a computer in order to utilize technology. They can be completely mobile and can learn from wherever they are. It also talked about how students can be more creative and are given options on the iPads which allow them to be learning in a more relevant way because they can choose things that interest them. I think that iPads must also be a great educational reinforcement or reward in that a student can earn game time on the iPad by doing something that they might not prefer or struggle with.
Personally I have seen iPads used in really incredible ways, even further than in teaching literacy. My boyfriend's cousin is 13 years old and has Down's syndrome and cerebral palsy. She uses her iPad as a communication device and also takes it to school and can use it for educational purposes as well. My roommates brother is also 13 and has autism and Down's. He uses his iPad as a communication device as well and it's been incredibly useful for their family.
Using these types of technologies in the classroom does require that teachers be more flexible and adapt their instruction or the logistics of their planning, but to me it seems worth it for all the benefits they afford.
I agree that with all the new technology it really is amazing all the different apps for students learning. I'm just wondering how to look through those to get the ones that are actually teaching students skills and which ones just adveratise that they do. It's the same with all programs around school but now with this technology I think its easier to get things published and out on the internet so you have to be careful about if its working or not.
ReplyDeleteThough I do agree that the ability to move around more with iPads is a great feature. Especially in a special education setting, sometimes students can't be in a certain environment and with iPads that isn't a problem, they simply can more somewhere else and continue with the lesson.
Rachel~
ReplyDeleteI like how you talked about how many apps the iPad offers for learning. It amazes me too that there can be whole lessons taught on an iPad and the students can learn interactively on their own outside of the classroom. I like that idea too that it's really transportable and easy to carry around for any time use. It's a great way to practice skills even if you are on the go! I like the personal touches that you gave in you reflection it really makes it seem more influential and an important way to learn. Nice Job!
Katelynn