Can Angry Birds really be used as a teaching tool? Yes, according to this video "iPad Apps for Autistic and Nonverbal Children." One of the most interesting and exciting parts of assistive technology is the integration of the technology that most people already use on a daily basis and how it can also be a form of assistive technology. IPads are an example of such technology. In this video (link is below), Laura Meaty an OT, reviews several apps for the iPad for autistic and non verbal children. Although this video's title may seem to imply the apps are just for students with disabilities, many of these apps that are suggested would be great in any classroom. One app allows students to create stories by taking pictures (up to 12) and saying captions with the pictures. There are several writing apps, music apps, and life-skills apps for teachers to download. Many of the apps allow the product to be emailed.
It is important to keep in mind though that the iPad is not a replacement for teaching, rather we are adding one more way of doing something. The video suggests that students who will not engage with other forms of assistive technology are excited to engage with the iPad.
Students from pre-school aged can use the iPad's Duck Duck Moose application while any aged student will enjoy the Doodle Buddy App. Some apps require the movement of the actual iPad thus helping with motor skills (just remember your rubber protective case!). We are giving another way to access something such as an interactive puzzle on an iPad.
I think iPads in the classroom is a wonderful idea and I hope to incorporate it more in my classroom! It's a writing tool, fine motor skill tuner, motivator, reward, interest sparker, and an amazing tool that has the possibility to change education!
Link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FGU1ELjS7bQ
Hi Angela,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed how you wrapped up your post with all the ways in which an iPad can in a general manner be incorporated into the classroom (e.g. an interest sparker). I have only used the iPads a couple of times and then only because typical computers (PCs) were not available. I found my students were "perkier" when I had them grab an iPad and begin their research. I hope to find additional ways to use them as a creative twist for instruction and support you in your search as well!!!