An iPad is a tablet computer and can be used for taking pictures, recording videos, playing music, surfing the internet, apps et cetera. It has a multi-touch screen as well as a virtual keyboard. It is easy to bring it with you because of its’ small size and it is therefore a very handy teaching tool to have in the classroom.
How the resource can be used
Teachers can for example use the iPad to quickly access the internet and search for information on different subjects that students are wondering about. That way the teacher can capture the student’s interest instantly. There are many different game apps that could be useful for students. Some of the game apps are made with teaching in mind and they are learning oriented. There are English learning apps, math learning apps, Swedish learning apps et cetera. These apps are a way for students to both learn and have fun at the same time. They can also use the ipad for writing and searching the internet in an easy way. It can also be used for taking pictures and recording video. Teachers can for example use students’ recordings in their assessment of them.
Other considerations when using this resource
It is of importance to be involved when students are using a tool such as the iPad. For student to actually learn something when playing a learning app he or she has to play it the right way. Some students can tend to click on the screen until they get the right answer without really thinking about it. It is therefore important for the teacher to guide the student in how to use the iPad and its’ different apps. Since the iPad has an internet connection there is the possibility of students accessing the net for non-school related searches and web pages. Teachers need to be aware of this and as mentioned above be involved in the students’ use of the iPad so that it is used in the right way for the right things.
Sofia Wiberg
1EN30L
Hi Sofia!
ReplyDeleteYou have presented the iPad as a teaching tool in a very nice way! It sure is a useful resource in the classroom, but just as you mentioned, one must be aware that it can lure pupils into doing non-school related things.
As a teacher I believe it is a really great resource. Teachers know a lot and can answer most questions from pupils, but it is never fun not to be able to answer a pupil's question. With the iPad close in hand teachers can look questions up on the Internet in a very effective way. You also mentioned how pictures can be taken with the iPad. That feature gives teachers a great chance to document the pupils' work in school. These photos' will be great to cover the classroom walls with, and also a fun thing for the pupils' to show their parents when they come for a visit.
You bring up various types of apps, which I find interesting! Pupils can absolutely use these in many amusing ways. However, I find these apps to be a great resource for teachers as well. By acquainting oneself with these apps, I believe we as teachers get a chance to come up with new ideas in terms of how to educate pupils in a fun and creative way.
Well done, Sofia!
// Linnea Rannelid