Implementing iPad Technology in the Elementary Classroom

The purpose of this blog is to support and document the 2011 / 2012 iPad Collegial Circle currently taking place at Stewart School in Garden City, New York. We will be investigating the benefits and challenges involved in implementing iPad technology in the elementary classroom. This blog will add to the discussion and allow further collaboration and investigation to take place.

Student-Centered Learning

As the iPad evolves and new apps are developed, educators are exploring the possibilities in which this new technology can transform the ways in which teachers teach and students learn. In recent years, there has been a significant shift from traditional teacher-directed educational instruction to student-centered learning activities that promote interactive engagement, individual responsibility, and self-assessment. This is not to say that the role of the teacher in the classroom has diminished. In fact, teachers today now have the additional challenge of designing curriculum and learning activities that not only meet and exceed existing learning standards and prepare for the coming Common Core initiative, but also actively involve students in the development, implementation, and evaluation of their own educational experiences. Utilizing iPad technology, educators have the ability to integrate these student-centered learning activities into proven curriculum strategies and educational methods.

For example, a teacher may assign a standards-based research project that requires student groups to utilize the iPad to develop an interactive audio / visual presentation. As part of the assessment process, students can exchange iPads and evaluate their peers' projects through "hands-on" engagement. On an individual level, the interactive touch screen of the iPad fosters interest and encourages students to master skills and strategies that have been previously introduced in class. The portable nature of the iPad also makes it possible for students to easily share information with classmates.

"Primary school aged children can create all manner of wonderful things, teach their peers, and sometimes even the older people around them."


“The new iPad will transform the way our teachers teach and our students learn…we also see this as a valuable opportunity for our students to become responsible digital citizens in our global community.”

“The one-to-one iPad program echoes our commitment to deliver a student-centered learning experience that reflects today’s world.

"I can’t wait to see students engaged and learning in a digital environment that reflects the world in which they are growing up. I also look forward to collaborating with my creative colleagues to integrate the new iPad into our curriculum. The combination of inspiring students and invigorating our faculty will propel education…to the next level."


Please follow this link for more on this topic. 

QR Technology in Use

As previously discussed, QR technology is being introduced into the classroom in conjunction with the iPad. QR Code (abbreviated from Quick Response Code) is a scannable barcode first designed for the automotive industry. In recent years, QR technology has been adapted for use with the internet. Using a smartphone (including the iPhone) or an iPad (or similar tablet) equipped with WiFi or 3G/4G access, a person can scan a QR code and instantly connect to a linked website or transmit other forms or digital data  quickly and easily. 

This developing technology has now appeared at Stewart School! Fourth grade students recently completed a research project on famous artists and included QR codes for related student audio presentations. Mrs. Volpe's Quest students integrated QR codes into their presentations on Stewart School's 75th anniversary. Several classrooms, including the science lab, feature QR codes that link to important information. Many visitors to Stewart had the opportunity to use these codes during last week's open house. 

What do you use QR codes for? Post a comment and let us know!

The Quick Brown Fox Scans Over the Crazy Code

For additional information on QR Codes, please follow this link.

Vote!

The Garden City Public Schools budget vote is Tuesday, May 15th, 2012.

Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall...

Earlier this week in our fourth grade classroom, we conducted a successful math lesson utilizing iPad technology in conjunction with existing interactive whiteboard and projection equipment already in place in the classroom. The objective of the lesson was to familiarize students with the iPad, while building essential mastery of basic multiplication facts and concepts. The lesson also served as an introduction to video mirroring, in which a digital AV or VGA adapter is used to mirror exactly what you see on your iPad on a larger screen, such as a SMART Board or eno interactive whiteboard. While there are some technological limitations (not all iPads and applications support full mirroring), video mirroring can be a very effective way of sharing iPad content in the classroom.

For this lesson, an iPad "station" was set up facing the front of the classroom. We used My Math Flash Card App for the lesson. Working together, the children attempted to solve multiplication problems as quickly as possible, beginning with basic facts and moving on to more complex problems. Paper and pencil were available for those students who needed to write out or double-check problems. During this problem-solving activity, the iPad screen was mirrored on the much larger eno board in the front of the room for all the class to see.



During the lesson, students were engaged and motivated. Working together and as individuals, they were able to improve on their results with each successive multiplication challenge. Several students who have previously struggled with basic multiplication facts were eager to participate and did not exhibit the anxiety or frustration that sometimes accompanies similar tasks. The app we used is relatively easy to use and engaging. The graphics are simple and the colors are basic; the children were able to navigate the app with minimal teacher assistance. However, it is important to note that one member of the collegial circle feels that the design of this app is flawed, as the input of two-digit products and sums in regard to place-value position requires calculations to be performed mentally.

We believe this lesson was a success and look forward to designing future lessons that combine various forms of technology while addressing common core standards and grade-level curriculum. Although there are certain technological limitations and issues to consider, combining interactive iPad technology with video mirroring can help teachers design successful lessons that motivate and engage a wide range of students.

Coming Soon to a Classroom Near You

Where can QR technology take the iPad in your classroom? Check back soon to find out!

Testing iPad Technology in the Classroom

Working with individuals and small groups, we recently introduced the iPad to several students in our 4th grade classroom. The students were given the opportunity to explore several free educational apps that do not require WiFi access. Direction from teachers was limited, allowing us to observe how successfully the children were able to navigate and utilize the iPad interface and app software. The overall response was positive, indicating that student interest in iPad technology is high and future activities will be well received. The challenge for teachers is to design meaningful curriculum and lessons that take advantage of this interest while enriching the learning experience. Check back soon for comments from the students involved in this initial activity!

First Steps