The+iPad

The iPad

There are many different makes and models of tablet computers, but the ipad is the most common, so this is the one that we will focus on. When it was first released in 2010 it didn’t take educators long to realise its’ potential in classrooms. Many schools around the world have been quick to use the ipad in their classrooms. __ Pros __ · Thousands of apps specifically made for every subject area. Many of these apps are free or cost anywhere from $.99 to $10. · The interactive interface-the touch screen, gets students more involved in what they are looking at or playing. · Digital text books · Quick research tool · It gets kids using technology early, which is important in our technological society.

__ Cons __ · Cost and availability of funding · Some parents don’t want their children using them because of personal or religious reasons. This could lead to that child feeling excluded. · Going ipad tethers the school to Mac. · Constant firmware updates. · Lack of school server. There is so much information about ipads in primary classrooms. Despite only coming out 2 years ago there has been much research done on the ipads’ benefits and potential in the classroom. Here are some great links for you to puruse at your leisure:

[|iPad for Education]: The Victoria Board of Education has a wonderful website about how they use the ipad in their classrooms and which apps they find effective.

[|Fraser Spiers]: Fraser Spiers is an educator in Scotland and is an advocate of ipads in the classroom

[|Education apps reviews]: Reviews and overviews of education apps

[|An essay about how to implement ipads in your class]: Interesting article about how to start using an ipad effectively in your classroom.

A quick talk about how Fraser Spiers is using the iPad in the classroom. media type="youtube" key="UiAd_7vh72I?fs=1" height="349" width="560"