3 Feb 2012

Why use iPads in your teaching?

We all know that if you want to amplify the learning which takes place in the classroom by the use of technology then it’s important to focus on engagement, creativity, inquiry-based learning and differentiated instruction rather than on the tools

We believe that iPads and other digital learning devices are a critical part of the learning process. The point of using an iPad in the classroom shouldn't be simply to use the digital device, but to provide a tool to aid learning!

7 Reasons for using the iPad in Education:


Learning Styles:
The iPad is a streamlined, visually attractive tablet that is used primarily as a platform for audio-visual media including books, periodicals, movies, music, games, and web content. The auditory, kinesthetic and visual aspects of the tablet appeal to a variety of different learners and learning styles.

The iPad enables personalized learning by giving learners the responsibility and ownership to choose how they learn, when they learn and where they learn; as well as developing their organizational skills.

Creativity:
The vast number of Apps allows all types of learners from different age groups to be creative by expanding the learning experience both inside and outside the classroom, from interactive lessons to study aids to productivity tools. The use of iMovie and GarageBand provide opportunities for all learners to show their creative nature and skills.

Technical:
The iPad requires minimal maintenance (as with most Apple products) and installation of software as well as booting up much more quickly than other mobile devices. Because of its solid-state hard drive, there is minimal time wasting in connecting to the network and logging in. The iPad has its own operating system and software, which is optimized to ensure ease of use and fast access to its software and Apps.

Accessibility:
Learners have accessibility to the world 24/7 (subject to internet access). There is no need to have a huge number of textbooks, dictionaries, thesauruses, atlases etc. The iPad has accessibility built in, it comes with a screen reader, support for playback of closed-captioned content and a universal zoom feature which provides magnification of the entire screen of any application. It also supports a wireless Braille display and international Braille tables.

Battery Life:
The battery life is relatively long, on average probably approximately 7 hours. The iPad 2 can stay charged for the entire school day

Any Age and Anyone:
The iPad can be used by anyone, at any age from pre-school through to adult life. I have found it especially useful for learners who have learning difficulties. The ipad is easy to use and can improve the progress of learning for everyone, regardless of ability, and this makes it a powerful tool.

Motivation:
Anyone who has seen students in the age bracket of K-12 learners who are all using an iPad will see that the response from the learners is one of engagement, wonderment, and learning

There are many other factors to consider, which are not mentioned here – the one of cost and budgetary requirements must be considered
And let’s not forget how the adoption of technology will only be successful if the associated pedagogy relates to the correct use of mobile devices in the classroom and associated learning philosophy.