Sunday 24 November 2013

Collaboration

As I have mentioned before, we use a shared model when it comes to using iPads at KPS. While we have tried out various ways of sharing the devices, we currently have a set in every class. At the moment this set is smaller than we would like but we are in the process of purchasing quite a few more iPads so that we we will have enough to share 1 iPad to 3 students in every classroom which, in my opinion will be ideal.

Many teachers across the school have achieved the 'shift in thinking' needed to be using iPads effectively to enhance learning and achieve higher order thinking skills. These teachers see the iPad as a fantastic, engaging, motivating, extremely versatile tool but also use a range of tools in their programs. These are the pedagogy first, technology second teachers. Not all teachers have achieved this and some are still trying to work iPads into their lessons.

While the focus should definitely be on how the iPads are used and not on the number of iPads, I believe the lower student to iPad ratio will make the planning and operational side easier. I am excited that we will be going into 2014 with this arrangement and I can't wait to see the small group collaboration happening across the school.

At this point we are looking into trialling a BYOD 1:1 program in some upper primary classes in 2015 but we have no plans to introduce 1:1 in junior primary. Students involved in the 1:1 trial will be encouraged to bring whatever tablet style device they have.

Web Tools

Some of the tools I have been using most on the iPad are Web Based Tools. Just some of my favourites are QR Voice, Actively Learn, Blendspace and many of the resources available at classtools.net.

QR Voice is an excelled tool for generating short, audio QR Codes - great for providing a repeat of the instructions for a station during rotations. 

I also like to use the browser version of Edmodo as it allows more options.

Thursday 14 November 2013

Blogging in the classroom

The concept of literacy education has changed as technology has evolved. It is no longer enough to teach students how to read books and write on paper. This won’t adequately prepare them for their 21st century lives. Blogging is an authentic way to teach both traditional reading, writing, speaking and listening, as well as multi-modal 21st century skills. I think a class blog is an excellent way to set homework that is more relevant to what you are learning in class than a photocopied sheet of paper. Online conversations are far more valuable. Getting parents on board with the younger students or weaker readers is important but these students are not  any better off with the traditional photocopied worksheet. There is also the option of posting or linking to teacher made video or audio explaining tasks or concepts. 

Wednesday 13 November 2013

Digital Storytelling

Digital storytelling is a fantastic way for students to present all different types of information. Narratives, retells and text adaptions can all be presented digitally. The planning and editing are still a major party the project.

What I think is an even more valuable use of digital storytelling is the presentation of research. One fun way this can be presented is through an interview using PuppetPals. Imagine an interview with Ned Kelly with Glenrowan as the background. Students would need to come up with good interview questions as well as the answers.

While digital storytelling has been around for a long time, using various computer programs, it has never been easier than with an iPad. 

Just some of the excellent apps for digital storytelling include PuppetPals, Toontastic, Book Creator, SonicPics, Strip Designer, Little Story Maker, iFunFace, Tellagami, I can Animate, Stop Motion, iMovie, Comic Book, Little Bird Tales and so many more.


Friday 8 November 2013

Teaching in the 21st Century

At KPS we are focussing a lot on what it means to be teaching in the 21st century. A lot of the PL I have presented recently has been around the idea of inquiry based learning, Challenge Based Learning and Global Ed. With this type of student centred learning we are really looking at the iPad as revolutionary tool that provides that 'anywhere, anytime' learning. Below are links to Keynotes that show how some of the ideas were presented.






Thursday 7 November 2013

Paperless?


The concept of a paperless classroom is still just a concept for me and requires 1:1 devices. While I embrace all forms of technology and am very open to new possibilities, I guess I am just old fashioned enough to still like to see students writing in classrooms, sometimes. Even if this writing is the planning of a fantastic digital presentation they are creating.

I do, however, believe homework can be paperless. With the option of various blogging platform (my personal preference to use with students are Kidblog for the younger students and Edmodo for the older students) paperless homework is a real option. Blendspace is another excellent option and, even better, you can create a task or series of tasks on Blendspace and then put the link on the blog. The work you create on Blendspace can include links, Educreation videos you have made, movies, photos, readings, quizzes and more. Students can work through this at their own pace.

Another great option for paperless homework, in my opinion, is Study Ladder. This allows you to create differentiated groups and set tasks at the level you choose.

Imagine the photocopying you will save which will help your photocopy budget and the environment. Of course you will still need to provide paper copies to some students but a recent survey revealed over 90% of students have access to a computer and internet at home.