I just spent the last hour at my first webinar, "iPads In the Classroom: Authentic Learning Opportunities". I cannot say how I found it, but I was able to find the link in my history so I could share it with my faithful bloggers. http://www.ascd.org/professional-development/webinars.aspx
This was one of the most useful hours I have spent in a long time. The host, Mike Fisher, provided rational for using iPads in the classroom. He explained that the tool (iPad) is driven by the task one wishes to perform. Technology can provide the tools to authentic and different methods of instruction that can engage students and produce materials that make information real and deep for students.
Of course, the section on the apps was the most fun and helpful. Here are a few to try if you are an iPad junkie, like me! One was SHOW ME. This app allowed someone to create a tutorial and share online. It was free and very easy to use. Teachers and students could use this to describe processes in math or label photos or diagrams.
Another app that was for the iPod and iPad was one called, "StoryLife". In this free app, photos could be dropped in and students could narrate the story to go with the pictures. Think of the gains students with reading or speech could make by using this app.
He also provided more information at http://livebinders.com/play/play/26195
I am glad I have had some experience with live web classes like those here at CMU because it made me confident to try this webinar. I strongly suggest using this tool especially if your colleagues look to you as a resource for integrating technology.
By the end of the school year, a lot of my colleagues in my hallway were looking for new ways to integrate technology in their lessons. I love that this program shows you so many ways to use technology. And as you said "SHOW ME," we all learn better with the hands-on approach!
ReplyDeleteI am curious, do you have ipads in your own classroom? If so, how many do you have? I teach fourth grade and my school district doesn't recommend them because of buying the apps. If ycou have them in your classroom, how do you buy the apps?
ReplyDeleteHolli,
ReplyDeleteI had to purchase the iPad with my own money (I had a rummage sale with my kids' toys, shameless, I know) but I don't regret it. I use it all the time, love it to travel and most of the apps I use are free or under $5.
I hope to write some grants to get more iPads in our school. Maybe you could suggest a mobile set for your school. Then you could use them in centers which is what I would like to do. I also think the research they are doing is showing measurable support for this tool.
I was also thinking you could ask parents to give iTunes cards as gifts for the class at holiday time! The Parent Group asks us so I am comfortable telling them.
I will be happy to pass on any info on apps and lesson ideas if you would like.
Anne