Thursday, September 8, 2011

iPads in Education







iPads have become a national, and even global, phenomenon. The iPad started out by appealing to adults for work and leisure, however, it is the students and teachers in schools that have taken over the use of the iPad. There have been hundreds of applications created for schools to make classrooms more interactive and technology friendly. Children in every grade have started using iPads for reading, mathematics, and many other subject areas.
Many people are unaware of how a student can use the iPad in language arts. The iPad can be used to present information, which makes the information more interactive. It can also be used for phonics, spelling, grammar, etc. Also, as a personal whiteboard. In written language, students can use the application called Sentence Builder. The application helps the students to create full and complete sentences. Students can also use the application, Storykit, to create their own stories. In math, the iPad can help students with using manipulatives and tools. Also, students are able to practice their skills independently which helps them gain a better confidence. To help with speech and communication, students can download the application, ArtikPix, and they can hear models, and record and match sounds. There are also other applications such as, Proloquo2go, TaptoTalk, and Speak It, which support communication. 
Going away from the particular subjects that the iPad is extremely helpful with, it is also a great organizing tool for students. Students are able to write down their homework and assignments in it and have alerts go off when it is due. Also, applications such as, IStudiez, helps students set up their class, and even, daily schedule. Therefore, the iPad is exponentially helpful for elementary students. Elementary kids are extremely hands-on and they want to be able to interact with what they are learning. The iPad allows them to do this. Not only do the students adore them, but the teachers do too! They are capable of using them in so many different ways.