This was a great combination of two different yet similar things. Using ipads is becoming more and more popular and easier to do. This article talks about the advantages a teacher can have by implementing the use of an ipad in the classroom. More specifically it talks about how students can benefit from ipads and be motivated at the same time. A huge problem in the schools is students not being motivated to learn. By using the ipad you can get students to enjoy reading and get better at using technology. I feel this would be very effective in any classroom, whether it be a resource room or in a general ed classroom.
I liked the examples the article gave about students and how they really enjoy working with ipads. It puts a smile on my face to hear that students are having fun and learning at the same time. The skills that these students can possess is incredible, it is up to the teachers to capitalize on the fact that students enjoy technology. I like how the article also took the time to mention that sometimes ipads are not the best choice for some literacy activities. Technology is fun to use but if students are not learning as they should be then using ipads is probably not the best choice during some lessons.
Personally, if I was a teacher I would invest in an ipad and use it in my classroom. The way I see it is being able to teach kids through something they love is probably one of the most effective methods of learning because when students are focused and determined to pass levels and move on to new chapter then learning is occurring and that's what teachers want to see.
-Eric
I really like how you took the positive side of this article and explored it. Myself, and what seems like a lot of other students, were being the devils advocates by saying that we do not want to use too much technology because it can take away from the social interactions that take place during instruction from a teacher. However, you said that we need to focus on the students enjoyment in the use of the technology and that if they are wanting to learn and having fun doing it then there really is not a problem with iPads in the classroom. But from what I understand, you are not wanting an entire set of iPads for each student in your class but rather just a few in the classroom that students can use from time to time. Kind of like an upgrade from a computer because the iPad has many more applications/programs. I don't want to be putting words into your mouth but again, I really like your take on this article.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that iPads can be a very effective motivator for learning in a classroom. There are a variety of educational apps that can be used at many different skill levels. You are right that it is important that the students are getting well rounded instruction and to be aware of times that the iPad may not be an appropriate way to teach. Maybe a set of iPads would be useful so that small groups could use them and that way you could easily rotate which students use the ipad. It is important for us as teachers to embrace technology because it is ever more important for students to be able to use it effectively to be successful in school and the work place. I think this is a great positive response to the reading.
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