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iPads in k-4 Setting . Stories from the Field . Project Proposal. Approached by Technology Facilitator because of previous technology grant Proposal drafted in 2011 Focused on primary grades Chose to purchase iPads Grade K-2 – Small groups Grade 3 – Class set
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iPads in k-4 Setting Stories from the Field
Project Proposal • Approached by Technology Facilitator because of previous technology grant • Proposal drafted in 2011 • Focused on primary grades • Chose to purchase iPads • Grade K-2 – Small groups • Grade 3 – Class set • January 2012 – Received iPads
First Steps… • Overwhelming • Tried to do “everything” with iPads • No follow up to activities • Little real-world application • A desire to focus on tools rather than teaching practices • Lack of specific direction • Lots of lower-level thinking
Galileo • October 2012, came to Ashmont for 2 planning days • Outcomes were given to Galileo prior to meeting • Project ideas were discussed and refined • Provided framework for inquiry-based project • Catalyst for shift in teaching practice • More effective use of technology • More authentic learning tasks
Our Project • Social Studies focus • 3.1.4 examine economic factors that shape communities in other parts of the world • Began by incorporating front matter • Focus on economy in the four countries • Found a way to fit the iPad to the project
Other Uses • Language Arts/Writing • Fit well into writers’ workshops (toontastic) • Allowed lots of choice when publishing (scribble press) • Social Studies/Science • Used for research • Google Earth • Video editing (hearing video) • Math • Centres/basic skills practice
Trials and Tribulations • First year: sharing between three classes • How to use iPads effectively • Digital Citizenship • Printing/Sharing projects with parents • Theft • Lack of student-friendly web resources • No Flash • Adequate Wifi access
Highlights • Student engagement • Authentic Learning • Peer-Assessment • Encourages good questions • Student-centered work • Student Interaction/Group work • Reaches all learning styles
Other Grades • 4 iPads per class • Kindergarten • Building Community Project • Grade 1 • Moss bag story telling • Grade 2 • “Day in the Life” project
Assessment • Self • Instant feedback • Peer • Focus on criteria • Teacher • Pictures/videos • Apps
Reflections and the Future • Greatly beneficial • Shift in teaching practice • Student centered possibilities • Teachers need to “buy in” • Support from Admin is crucial • Continuing to grow and improve
Thank you! Questions?