Module 4 Assignment 3: "iPad Apps"

As a relatively new iPad user, I am still learning about the different apps that are available.  I am pleased to see that in the App Store there is an education section to help me at least find a starting point.

Dragon Dictation is an app that I have already downloaded to my iPad, and I plan to use it beginning in the fall with struggling writers.  I haven't used Facetime or Screen Chomp yet, but I did download Screen Chomp.  My 13-year-old son has used Screen Chomp in class and was able to give me a quick tutorial.

I downloaded a new Sight Word app simply because my project for this Web 2.0 class will be based on sight words.  This app has sight words already loaded into flashcards and games, but any individual can create their own recorded flashcards for any sight word list.  I wanted to use this app more this year, but I wasn't successful.  All first grade teachers plan to use this app beginning next fall.  I love anything that I can customize to meet my needs!

Module 4 Assignment 2: "iPads and Education"

I found this article/blog interesting since so much has evolved with technology since it was written only 3 years ago!  The author states that his 5 ideas are just off the top of his head upon hearing about this new "iPad" from Apple.  However, his thoughts turned out to be good predictions.

iPads are definitely used in our school system as a replacement for textbooks.  The students enjoy having the ease of carrying one item for a library of books.  

I have used laptop carts to have my own mobile "computer lab" and what a headache that is!  Students can't get logged in, they don't know which browser to use, etc.  With a cart of iPads, I can get 20 students on various math applications within minutes and actually catch my breath before there are any problems!

I've never taken iPads on a field trip, but what a good idea!  I have seen teachers at conferences use their iPads to take pictures of workshop slides and other presentations, so I imagine it would be good for students to use as well.

I would like to begin using the iPad for more innovative ways such as collecting data from experiments and math activities.  A practical way to use technology and to save paper!

Personally, I think any art or music teacher not incorporating iPads into their lessons is not aware of the need for technology in every facet of education.  I would love to see students experimenting with various music and drawing apps.  I know my 3 year old daughter loves apps like these!

Lastly, my own "contribution" to this list would be simply using the iPad as a "What do I do now?" tool.  So often teachers say "read a book" when students finish an assignment before others.  While I would never underestimate the power of reading, I believe some students would benefit from free iPad time to learn more about the way an iPad works and to discover new apps.  I know I have been introduced more than once to new useful apps by my 6 and 7 year old students!

Module 4 Assignment 1: "Posting Files on Blogger"

I am becoming a fan of "My Drive" the more I use it!  I like being able to access files easily without having to be on my own computer.  Sharing files, on the other hand, is a little more confusing for me.  I wasn't sure which option to choose when I had to select who could view my document for this assignment.  Since it can only be viewed by someone and not edited, I went ahead and shared it with anyone on the Internet.  Good idea or not?  I'm not sure.  

When I went to view Mrs. Bazak's blog which had a link to a document on Drive, I was not granted access.  So, I didn't want others to have that same problem if they actually wanted to view what I've uploaded.  

I uploaded a SmartBoard file containing some of my first grade class's weekly sight words.  We change the words each week, and use the "ladder" for ABC order, creating sentences, and speed reading.

Click here for the SmartBoard File.

Module 3 Assignment 7: "Big Huge Labs"

I discovered very quickly this evening that using Web 2.0 applications with a DSL internet connection is not fun or practical!  I finally was successful in uploading 4 pictures to "Big Huge Labs." 

 

 

I am enjoying not only learning about new applications for the classroom, but also for my personal use!  As far as using this website educationally, I could easily put pictures of science or social studies concepts into a mosaic and use for vocabulary instruction.

 

 

I'll definitely add this website to "Delicious!" 

Module 3 Assignment 6: "Google Docs Form"

This was a very easy assignment, especially since we practiced it in class last weekend.  Making a form could definitely become a practical way of getting answers from parents about a variety of subjects without having to send home paper copies or email parents individually.  I really like the idea of using the form as a way of surveying students about their likes/dislikes/interests at the beginning of the year.

Take a look at my survey by clicking on the image below:

Module 3 Assignment 4: "Pinterest"

I can understand now why folks are addicted to "Pinterest."  I just spent 45 minutes browsing, pinning, etc. and didn't even realize that much time went by!  That's why I like following people who pin great things...then I don't have to work so hard!

I am now following a new person;  she has to be a teacher.  The board I spent all afternoon viewing was "Classroom Ideas."  While she appears to be a kindergarten or preschool teacher, I am discovering pins that would prove useful in my first grade classroom.

I have also been creating new boards to organize my "finds."  This hopefully will assist me when I need to locate a specific idea.  I can't stand disorganization!  Currently, relating to education, I have boards about "Daily Five Activities," "Sight words," "Fluency," "Classroom Management," and "Science."  I will most definitely be adding more!

My project for this class will be about sight words.  Finding ideas to "pin" on Pinterest is so helpful!

Click the image below to see my boards!

Module 3 Assignment 3: "Twitter"

Finally, a great example of using Twitter in the classroom!  I've been "tweeting" almost daily, and I wasn't quite sure how I could use this facet of Web 2.0 in my classroom.  After reading the article and viewing some tweets from "Room 302," I think I have some clear ideas for next year!

I love the fact that the writing the students are doing is USEFUL and MEANINGFUL.  They are indeed writing for a purpose.  I also am impressed with the ease of parents staying in touch with what's going on in their child's classroom.  As a parent, I would so appreciate a teacher allowing me to know some of the details of my child's day.  No child ever shares all that a mom or dad really wants to know.

I actually think I will add this article to "Delicious" and revisit it this summer as I prepare for the next school year.