iPads in the 4 th Grade Classroom Integrating Technology with the Use of iPads

Starting the Path Project Based Learning is a teaching method in which students gain knowledge and skills by working for an extended period of time to investigate and respond to a complex question, problem, or challenge. ( Students can use technology to research, learn, communicate, and share their findings. It all starts with the Essential Questions!  How can our kids learn best?  How can kids work together?  How can we have students in charge of their learning?

How Do We Want Them to Learn? Rigor/Relevance Matrix Student Learning A Students gain knowledge and are asked to remember or understand that knowledge. B Application – Students use knowledge to solve problems, come up with solutions, and complete work. C Students continue to refine knowledge to analyze routinely while solving problems and finding solutions. D Students can think in complex ways. They further develop their skills while applying their knowledge.

How Do We Use Collaboration with Technology?  iPads  We have 10 in the classroom.  Students work in groups of 2-4 depending on assignment.  Students can use iPads for many different things within the classroom:  Collaboration  Presentation  Practice  Research The above image illustrates how these girls are making a digital storybook for kindergarten students. Below, these girls are creating an animated film about bullying.

They’re in Charge! Students Share Their Knowlege  The students can share ideas with many different apps:  My Storybook  iMovie  Prezi  Popplet  iPages  Google Drive  iStopMotion  Students can get support and practice:  Dreambox  AR  Webster Dictionary  Various Math Skill apps  Recorder Pro  Spelling City 77a4e7a63334d54493d0d0a&blogview=t rue The following video has students working with iPads to work on Genius Hour projects. This is an example of how teachers can use PBL in the classroom.

Making News with iMovie  iMovie is a great app for students to use. It provides students with the following skills for the 21 st century. CreativityCollaborationCooperationResearch SkillsWriting SkillsSpeaking Skills

Family History Project with Prezi  Prezi is a great presentation tool.  Students can work on iPads and then save online.  Editing and Revising is then possible on the desktop with more options.  Students can share and collaborate with this app on the iPads. We’ll view a Prezi using one of the iPads!

Pros and Cons Cons Teacher does not have quick access for changes or updates. Some apps with filters do not work as they should. Limited storage space. Apps do not provide all tools/options as they do on desktops or laptops. No PD provided within the district. Pros Many opportunities for practice, learning, and sharing. Teacher can be more of a facilitator in the classroom. Teachers can find PD and help from online resources and/or conferences. Students have technology at their fingertips. At-risk students can have access to helpful apps.