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I was just informed yesterday that my building has received a grant for 15 iPod Touch handheld devices. I'm not quite sure yet what I would use one for.. I did find a website of another elementary district in Minnesota using the iPod Touch, and they had some interesting views and information. One thing they mentioned was that the students were more engaged in learning with an iPod. This obviously would be a great tool to put some much needed "oomph" into an otherwise dull skill & drill learning activity. My kids' are always excited about practicing their math facts in the computer lab, and this would be a way for them to do this same activity at their desk, in their own time. Something I'm concerned about is making sure the apps fit into my curriculum. At this stage of the year, I'm trying to finish what I've already started, and don't have time to create or add something new. However, this summer will be a perfect time to investigate the many "apps" available for teacher and student use. Something to look forward to!
I can attest to kids being more engaged with these "toys." I recently bought an iPhone (love it!) and have been the exploring the App Store. My son is in kindergarten and usually dreads us working with him on his sight words and reading activities. He loves books, but hates the formal "school work" component (my quick opinion). I found a couple of apps for reading skills at his level. One is called "Word Magic." It presents a word with either the first letter, first vowel, or last letter missing. It has a picture above it and four letter choices below. You get rewarded for the right answer with a verbal positive reinforcement (kids voices). It keeps track of how many right and wrong gives small awards for every five correct. I just put it in his hands and watch him go. He never complains about it. He'll anywhere from 20 - 50 on his own before talking about doing anything else.
ReplyDeleteI think he likes the manipulative aspect, plus the cool graphics, sounds and rewards. I also think it gives him a sense of control and independence (self-directed activity). I think those aspects might translate to any age.
On a different note, I put my iPhone under my doc cam today in class, but it was too hard to read on the screen. I was a bit disappointed, but you can't win 'em all!