Fall+2012_Group_1

__//**Integrating iPads in Preschool **//__



**__ What is an iPad? __**
 * ** The first iPad was released on April 3, 2012 by Apple Inc. It is a tablet that weighs 1.33 pounds making it light enough for children to hold and carry. **
 * ** It has many functions such as browsing through books, and surfing the web. **
 * ** There are also hundreds of applications, or apps, that can be downloaded and used to teach children learning objectives such as their A,B,C,'s and 1,2,3's. **
 * ** iPads gain access to the World Wide Web by using Wi-Fi or also by using 3G, 4G, and even 5G hot spots. **
 * ** Hands on learning and creating are inspired with the educational tool. **

What an iPad can do:
 * Take pictures (iPad 2)
 * Take videos (iPad 2)
 * Play music
 * Send & receive email
 * Browse the web
 * GPS navigation
 * Social networking
 * Games
 * Allow downloading of books

__** Educational Apps Available **__



** Starfall ABC's, Jumpstart my ABC Book, First Words, Intro to Letters, Super Why, PBS Kids, and Kindertown Preschool ducation Games are just a few of the top rated apps for preschoolers to learn with. Teachers are able to check reviews and star ratings on any app that is available on iTunes. **

__** Ideas for Using iPads in the Classroom. **__ ** Since the iPads are more expensive than some classrooms can afford, the students will have to take turns using them each day. Different learning centers with different forms of learning technology and materials can be created and set up. Every day, 3 or 4 different children can have a chance to play on the iPad and become familiar with it. This also lets children explore the apps. There are apps that read story books out loud for children to hear. This allows them to start becoming more familiar with literature and reading. Music apps give them a chance to develop musical skills. There are also art apps that will let them get in touch with their creative side. So many learning options are available for them to choose from and explore with. ** __** Testimonials **__

> ** 1. "One of the most important characteristics of the iPad, one that I have noticed with my own nephews, is how personal the device is to kids. They can touch it and that makes sense to them. Books have a cold presence to them. A 'you can get, but you cannot give' sentiment that can be off-putting to young people...By providing children with the best tools, you empower them to think independently about bigger problems. They become solution-oriented by nature. They can use their energy to wonder and create instead of mindlessly memorizing inane theorems, dates, and other information that is easily accessible using technology." ---Joe Aimonetti ** > ( a seasoned Mac veteran with years of experience on the platform. He reports on Macs, iPods, iPhones and anything else Apple sells. He even has worked in Apple retail stores. He's also a creative professional who knows how to use a Mac to get the job done.) > ** 2. "My Students Loved the iPad: Subtract for the newness of the device, but my students were so engaged with everything the iPad could do, I had to pry it from one student’s hand to get it into the hands of another, and then back to mine. The best part of the students hands-on experience was that there was no explanation. Everyone just “knew” what to do. Sure, they went right for the game (Cursed Doodle Jump) but they wanted to see it do everything. This is a device that will serve students well. No more frustrations with computer ailments, and lost papers. Cool apps will keep them engaged. I loved how my students explored our world in Maps. I wish I could have given them more time with the device." **** - Posted by Kcroy on [|wirededucator.com] ** ** 3.“I was recently chosen to test drive an iPad in the classroom. It has allowed for exceptional hands-on learning, a type of learning that can’t be achieved sitting at a computer or watching on a projection screen. The children are excited to be using the iPad and they stay focused longer while learning in a fun environment. I found that the iPad can be used in all types of settings, from individual learning all the way to whole class instruction.” – Teresa Schultz, third grade teacher **

__** Links **__

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