iPads & iPods in the Classroom

Using Technology Effectively in the Inquiry-Based Classroom

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There is a growing trend in using these feature-rich, easy-to-use devices in the modern classroom.  Since researching is often the key to a successful lesson, we've found purchasing iPods and iPads to supplement our laptops and desktops an excellent way to ensure students can get information quickly and conveniently.  The app store is just the beginning.  There is so much you can do with these portable marvels and the features keep growing with every new generation of device.  We can't mention Tony Vincent's work enough.  His web site "Learning in Hand" is very comprehensive and you love the 'tips and hints' you'll find there for using the mobile devices at school and in your home. 

Steps for Implementing iPads

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At this time, we have 10 iPads and 4 iPods, we're hoping our resource will continue to grow. There are so many things to consider when implementing iPads in a classroom:
1. Connecting to school WiFi
2. Creating a school itunes account
2. Downloading educational apps
3. Placing restrictions- specifically purchase app and delete app
4. Making sure the "Find Me" is on
5. "Speak" feature is on
6. Purchasing cover for iPads
7. NOW...we are ready to work and learn together!

Apps that Work with Instructional Strategies

  1.  Infinote ($2.99) students can create K-W-L charts and brainstorm thoughts and ideas- Idea Sketch does the same thing and it's free!
  2. iAnnotate ($9.99) allows for teachers to provide feedback.
  3. Keynote ($9.99) and Easy Chart ($9.99) helps in reinforcing effort.
  4. DrawFree (free) and (http://freeology.com/graphicorgs) are great advance organizers. 
  5. eClicker ($9.99) features a means of polling classes during lectures. This allows for immediate feedback.
  6. Dropbox (free) any file saved to your dropbox will save on all your computers. 
  7. Animoto (free) let your students create video slideshows.

Apps for Special Education and Differentiated Instruction

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iphone-ipod-touch-apps-for-special-education1-2.pdf
File Size: 1913 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

Great Basic Apps for Everyday Use

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This is a great set of apps to install on your iPads or IPod touches for everyday use in the classroom.  Some are free, but others are only available for purchase.
Dragon Dictation and Search
Pages
Keynote
iMovie
National Film Board - NFB
Garageband
Comic Life
iBooks
Penultimate
Dictionary
Google Earth
BrainPop
Science360
Printing