After all of the training in June and early July I thought I was getting the hang of the iPad and the many ways that it can impact teaching and learning. Boy was I wrong! After spending 3 days specifically dealing with the iPad I feel like I have been to a mental boot camp.
Day 1 learning how to sync the devices using the MacBook was challenging to my point and click nature. Even though I know I will have to refer to the handouts to remember how to sync everything, I am starting to get the concept of gestures in computing. It is a powerful new way of experiencing computing. I find it much more enjoyable and more natural.
Day 2 as we began to really look at apps purchase. I feel fortunate to not only been given a chance to do the iPad pilot, but to be given a jump start on buying apps with the voucher was really nice. I already had a couple of apps that I new would be great tools to help my students and provide a new type of learning experience for them, but I was not prepared for day 3.
Day 3 WOW! Leslie Fisher came in and it was like ok...I had no idea what this thing was capable of. You should see my Evernote of the session. I just scroll and scroll. Things like Aurasama that brings images to life. The $20 bill was just freaky. I also got a new appreciation for Evernote, which I think I am going to use for ePortfolios for my kids. I did not realize all of the different applications that share with Evernote. It kind of made it a no brainer. Run Pee was too funny. How about an app that tells you what you missed in a movie when you have to get up and go to the restroom...who thinks of this stuff. So many apps, so little time. It really reminded me of the fact that the curriculum comes first, because there is an app to do practically anything that you may want to do and you can get lost in all that's out there if you don't have something that is your focus.
The iPad is such a powerful tool. I am now using it in music performance using the Griffin Studio Connect to access all of the sounds in Garage Band. I look forward to addressing the demands of the music curriculum, global awareness, and 21st century education using the newest member of my toolbox.
