SPRING+2013_GROUP+3

== = iPads in the Classroom = = And their Benefits for Gifted Students = flat

What is an iPad? The iPad is a handheld computer that features several applications as well as internet, photo, and video services. Many U.S. schools have taken advantage of the abundance of teaching benefits that the iPad provides. In fact, as of March of 2013 Apple has sold more than 8 million iPads to schools across the globe. More applications are added to the iPad regularly, and it's benefits will only continue to grow.

= What is a Gifted Student? = The iPad is beneficial to every student and teacher in the classroom. However, gifted students may gain a few unique benefits from the iPad. In the 1988 Jacob Javits Gifted and Talented Students Education Act, a federal definition for the "gifted and talented" student was created as "[Any] children and youth who possess demonstrated or potential high-performance capability in intellectual, creative, specific academic and leadership areas or the performing and visual arts." (Friend & Bursuck, 2012.)

= What is the Cost? = Though the iPad is seemingly expensive for schools, a study released by Oklahoma State University in 2012 suggested that when compared to the cost of each year's textbooks, an iPad for each student is most cost effective way to go. The study claims that an iPad for each student coupled with the purchase of eBooks will pay for itself in just two semesters when compared to traditional book expenses. The study also claims that iPads increase productivity, and that they "enhance a student's academic experience and have a positive impact on faculty as well." (Oklahoma State University.)

= What are the Benefits? = There are many benefits to utilizing iPads in the classroom, one being that it keeps children stimulated. Elementary education is full of different levels of abilities that vary throughout every subject. With iPads having apps that are appropriate for the classroom, it makes learning fun and more interesting. One study done at Longfield Academy in Kent, England found that students have more motivation when using iPads, and that there is an overwhelming demand from students to increase iPad usage in schools.There are many applications that are available for school purposes on an iPad, and each app has different levels. This is great for a classroom with students who may be in different levels of reading, addition, subtraction; ect. An iPad gives each student a chance to learn at their own level. This is great for gifted students because if they are ahead of other students then they can advance through apps rather than stay behind in learning with the rest of the classroom.

= What does the Research Say? = Our gifted and talented students need to be challenged. Here is a link with a various amount of advocates in technology in the classroom who are experts! [|http://www.guardian.co.uk/teacher-network/2013/feb/09/gifted-talented-students-education-technology]

= Conclusion =

In conclusion, an iPad is beneficial in a classroom for gifted students. They can learn at their own fast speed and won't have to slow down for others. I wanted to let everyone get a look at some apps that are great for a classroom! The majority of them are free, too! Check it out and think about iPadss in your classroom! [|Check this out and see great things about Ipads!] [|Awsome look at apps on an Ipad for the classroom] [|More great apps] [|Check this out!]

Resources:

Hasselton, Todd. "//Apple: more than 8 million ipads sold to educational institutions."// March 3, 2013. []

//iPad study released by oklahoma state university.// May 3, 2011. []

K. Walsh. //Study finds benefits in use of ipad as an educational tool.// July 8, 2012. []

M. Friend, W.D. Bursuck. (2012). //Including students with special needs: A practical guide for classroom teachers.// New Jersey, Pearson.