ICT - Networking and Communications Taking learning into touch


Getting hands-on with classroom technology


T


he Apple iPad or similar hand-held device is an increasingly familiar sight in schools. This growing trend in the education sector of bringing learning directly into the hands of students is a popular one. They don’t just replace a dusty textbook, but offer a whole new way of learning and teaching, with videos, interactive pictures and real-time updates which can be a great tool at primary level. But are schools making the most of what remains a highly significant investment?


Alexandra Mounier is EMEA business education development manager at eInstruction, a provider of interactive teaching and learning technology. Here, she explores how schools that are investing in hand-held technology can make the most of its potential.


Students today have opportunities like never before to experience interactive and engaging digital content, directly in the palm of their hands on portable, touch-screen hand-held devices. For education, touch technology, and recently hand- held touch technology, has great potential for transforming the educative process for the 21st century. It is of little surprise therefore that iPads and other devices are an increasingly popular addition to the classroom.


The impact on learning Engagement in students at primary level is heightened by the interactivity and excitement interactive content on hand-held devices offers, resulting in an increased interest in learning.


Alexandra Mounier, EMEA business education development manager at eInstruction


Being able to present concepts that need to be learned in a fun, interactive format such as a game, means that students enjoy taking part, while they simultaneously learn important educational concepts.


Classroom technology supporting student engagement


Access to handheld devices combines the three key learning styles - visual, auditory and kinaesthetic (VAK learning). This combination helps engage all students, making learning a much more accessible and beneficial experience for all, regardless of ability or educational needs. Technology in many cases also allows students to learn at their own pace. Higher ability students can move on to more advanced ideas, while those that might be having a harder time understanding something can re-examine material until it is understood without delaying the class progress.


Careful consideration by schools Whether schools have already invested in portable classroom technology or are considering doing so, the investment and how to make the most of it should be considered carefully. The cost implications can be high – just one class set of iPads for example can cost in the region of £12,000. It is crucial therefore to make sure that content works for the individual; hardware can easily be left in the cupboard to gather dust if the


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