An iPad initiative to build on the learning, the strategies and the resources of our current teaching and learning programmes. It is anticipated that the use of iPads as a learning tool will continue to drive elementary and pre elementary school improvement and student achievement.
AIM
The aim of the iPad initiative is to ensure ICT is effectively integrated into teaching and learning through:
- innovative ways of using the technology for learning;
- effective and evidence-based teaching with the integration of iPad devices
- whole-school engagement through the integration of iPad devices
- integrating innovative technology into classroom practice and transforming student engagement and motivation to learn.
- the creation of new and more powerful ICT strategies tailored to suit the learning needs of students
- the initial focus curriculum areas will be literacy and numeracy.
Year 1:
•Pilot 1:1 in upper grade literacy class/year 4. Pilot teachers/class will be responsible to do report at the end of the pilot year.
•Teachers in each year level 1 term PD using device then a pod of 6 in the team to share. Report on usage at end of year.
•Regular Professional Development for targeted teachers and introduction for other staff. Including school blog of useful apps developed and contributions made by staff.
•Develop guidelines and policy incl. Cyber wellness for games, e-safety etc
•Communication and promotion to parents
•Visit to other iPad 1:1 schools
Year 2/3
•Implement 1:1 frameworks to certain year levels (depending on recommendations after year 1)
•Continuous Profeesional development
The major curriculum focus areas
English literacy and Mathematics to implement ICT practices to improve student engagement and achievement. iPads will be used to integrate literacy and numeracy based iPad applications into structured sessions. iPads don’t replace good teaching or laptops/desktops but are an exciting tool to enhance learning opportunities for students.
Other considerations:
•Familiarizing teachers with the iPad as a technological device through iPad and experimentation through PD. Every team has ICT mentor, consultation sessions to individual teachers
•Teachers should have prior knowledge of how to use and explore iPad for teaching-learning activities.
•Leadership have the same vision of this e-learning philosophy. Add on the school mission about e-learning
•Infrastructure and architecture: electric chords, service center, private network is in place
•Curriculum and e-resource can be adapted from certain websites
•School need to keep communicate and promote to parents about iPad.
•iPads do not replace the need for laptps or PCs – they are another tool that enhances teaching and learning. They are more interactive.
Mobile learning - what research says:
- promotes confidence and independence regardless of year level and age
- promotes peer coaching and developing activities for each other
- important in encouraging ESL learners, reluctant learners (at risk/disengaged)
- improves attendance, more active participation in class
- promotes better preparation and organisation for class
- supports more regular completion of school work and homework
Hopefully by reading this, you can have idea of how to start an iPad project to enhance teaching learning at your school.
For further queries please contact me in the comment box below.