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By Kit Hard and Joanne Hopper REMC Association of Michigan


Are iPads Creating a New Instructional Ecosystem?


Anyone who ever placed an iPad in the hands of a two-year old realizes how intuitive and engaging the iPad interface is compared with traditional learning tools like a pencil or a PC. iPads harness the technology and connectivity of a computer but provide levels of interaction that are more multi-sensory and intuitive. The iPad’s combination of simplicity and versatility gives teachers the ability to meet the diverse learning needs of students and distinguishes the iPad as a disruptive force within education. The iPad’s power to enrich and transform instruction is illustrated in this classroom scenario.


Students in 9th grade algebra at the Academic Transitional Academy of St. Clair County used Doodle Buddy and Storyrobe apps to create narrated video tutorials demonstrating rules for exponents. Students drew sample equations using the touchscreen interface. They made their thinking process visible by using different colors, arrows, annotations, and narration. The tutorials were uploaded to Youtube and accessed by the class as a peer-generated learning resource. Students created authentic expressions of their learning and the teacher was able to assess student understanding by evaluating both the process and product.


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Asking students to model problem solving and talk out their thinking process is not new. In many ways, this scenario is not that different from typical classroom instruction. There are, however, a few key distinctions that make iPads a unique solution for teaching and learning. Let’s explore some of the differences – design, portability, accessibility, and more – and their potential to enhance instruction.


Simplicity of Design


The iPad, for sure, is an easy tool to use. The nearly instant- on capability saves instructional time in the classroom. When students are ready to begin working out solutions, compose a written response, or use an app, the iPad is ready.


In a world bombarded by visual media, the picture interface is simpler and more intuitive. Kids love the iPad’s graphic design and the way apps can be moved across the screen with the flick of a finger. The touch screen enables students to use natural physical movements to control the device while writing or drawing their solutions. The touchscreen interface also creates accessibility for many students who would find it challenging to navigate a keyboard. The diversity of applications that utilize the device’s touch screen, cameras, microphone, and network connectivity enriches the learning process.


Portability


Because of its extended battery life and the lightweight design, many users are toting the iPad to remote places and using it in multiple situations that a laptop wouldn’t dare to follow. Many other easy-to-use portable devices have made their way into the classroom. Flip cams, for example, offer a low-cost opportunity to capture classroom learning moments. But even though they are easy to use, these tools are designed for a single application and tend to land in the desk drawer when not in use;


Winter 2011-12 | MACULJOURNAL


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