Technology and Education

This week our topic was technology and education. Educational technology is defined as “a combination of the processes and tools involved in addressing educational needs and problems, with an emphasis on applying the most current digital and information tools” ( Roblyer & Doering, 213, p.6). In the classroom technology is very helpful to keep the students current on the this changing world. With technology we are teaching are students different ways of learning to cope with the changes of technology. A favorite mobile technology device I am very pleased with is the iPad. Using iPads have become a device used by many people for different reasons. IPads are a great tool to use in the classroom. There are so many apps that can be used for every subject. I like the iPad because of the many apps and it is big enough to be seen by the kids when they are sharing it. I have used the ipad in my class to reinforce concepts that have been taught. I have used it during center time as well as whole group. During whole group I will display the iPad through my Apple TV which is connected to wi-fi so I am able to still move around with the device. The Apple TV was a great investment to my class. I am able to keep the students engaged because they are able to participate more with the device since it is wireless with the Apple TV.  Here is a video on on using the Apple TV with the ipad.

 Math 

 High order mathematics skills are becoming more emphasized. According to Roblyer & Doering students often need more resources to support the practice of basic skills.( p. 317) I use drill and practice apps. The purpose of the drill and practice is to allow students to practice specific skills in an exercise that will give feedback on their correctness (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 81). The app I use is MathRacing. It is found at  https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/3d-math-racing-fast-free-math/id552783933?mt=8 The students are drilled math facts while racing cars. In order for the students to succeed they have to get the problems correct quickly. This app helps reinforce math facts.

 Splash Math is a another great math app for students to drill and practice facts. I have used this app during whole group time. The app can be found at https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/1st-grade-math-splash-math/id463469532?mt=8

 Reading

 Roblyer & Doering states that the more student's read, the better developed their language and writing skills become.(p. 270) In my class there is always a struggle with reading comprehension. The app I use is Abitalk Incorporated Reading Comprehension. This app can be found at https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/2nd-grade-reading-comprehension/id580661325?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D4.

Another app I also use is a phonics app by Abby. This app allows my students to practice on their skills to become better readers. The app can be found at  https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/abby-phonics-first-grade-hd/id587850214?mt=8.

  "Teachers find it an ongoing challenge to motivate students", "Teachers are turning to the interactive and visual qualities of software and websites to increase motivation", Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 270). Using ipads in the classroom is a great tool to keep students engaged. IPads are a great device to begin the journey of keeping students egaged and motivated.  Click here for more information on ways to use your ipad in the classroom.

Reasons to use technology in the classroom:

For more information on mobile apps. #ED505UWARAY http://t.co/lRSuiiznIk
— Shaquetta Bradford (@shaquettaeric) July 2, 2013