iPad+Technologies


 * Ipad Applications**

With new technologies emerging, it is getting more important for educators to keep up with times and delivery up-to-date strategies for student learning. Teachers have the skills, professional training, and personal insight to design instruction and materials that meet the needs of their students and fit curriculum objectives. Technology is a very useful, motivating tool when used thoughtfully and purposefully ([|Johnson et al, p64, 1997]). When it comes to newest technologies, Ipad’s are the latest craze in education. Of course, the costs involved do raise fears for inclusion of all students, but if used correctly can be a valuable tool within the classroom. There are numerous websites that give strategies for integration of Ipads within the classroom including [|Technology Teacher], which gives you 10 ways to use the iPad within the classroom.

Idea 7 of these strategies entails iPad Applications. These applications can be very useful within an inclusive classroom, especially for special education. There are many applications out there that can help in special education as seen here on [|UseVisualStrategies.com], so, it is wise to be able to sort through them and decide as an educator which one will be useful, motivating, thoughtful and overall purposeful.

[|IPads in Special Education] is a resource that can be used by teachers as a guide when thinking about using them in an inclusive classroom or with special education. The resource goes through all the worthwhile applications for each subject area. After naming all the applications, the resource goes through how to implement the technology into the classroom, accessibility and then some useful links. With this resource, educators have the tools to be able to introduce technology such as the iPad into their classrooms for effective teaching.

At Radford College, iPads are used for children with special needs, especially in the Early Learning Centre. Applications are used to help develop children with Aspergers and Down Syndrome. Relevant applications such as Turn Taker, which helps with visual and audio cues as well as Tap to touch, which helps with speech and communication, are used daily to help develop these students. By using these technologies with the school, students do not fall behind and can use their abilities to their maximum potential.


 * References**

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