Thursday, September 18, 2014

hOLIday ChEer!!!

iPads Mini Make a Huge Impact



Classroom Photo
 Open link for more information about getting technology into more public schools.

http://www.donorschoose.org/project/ipads-mini-make-a-huge-impact/1350399/?verify=-142155006

Studies have shown that computer use, regardless of ability, can improve eye hand coordination, language development and problem solving. When these benefits are brought to special needs children they can make an enormous difference to quality of life.
Our school is one of the largest elementary schools.
Having an iPad Mini will allow me to give my students exposure to fun and exciting on-line activities that are age and ability appropriate. There is a whole range of educational software designed to address multiple learning styles. While there are different styles, they all share one common characteristic, "errorless learning". This means that whatever the user does is right. Some work on the principles of cause and effect so any action (pressing a key, etc) is rewarded with a noise, image or animation. Others offer more open ended learning so, while there is still no right or wrong, the user is encouraged to make choices. The iPad Mini will allow my students to take control of their own learning and the touch-screen interface allows students to engage more interactively with content. Most importantly, lessons can be tailor made for each student.
My students need learners Minis with Internet access. There are numerous benefits associated with the use of mobile computing devices such as the iPad. Personally, I see it as a versatile, powerful tool that is changing the lives of students with multiple learning styles and second language learners.Â" Students have access to an unidentifiable amount of educational apps that many times are even free. Many of the apps offer content and materials for all areas of learning. The iPad Mini learning apps delivers great opportunities for multiple learning, but the computer on its own cannot work miracles. Students still need special attention to help them learn. Technology can offer massive learning opportunities!
Having an iPad will allow me to give access to and address the need of, students with multiple learning styles. Apps are available for children with cognitive learning problems and there are also accessibility tools built into the latest OS such as Speak Auto-Text, White on Black, Voice Over and Siri, a voice recognition technology. In addition, the iPad can easily be positioned for comfortable use on a child's desk. 
My students need 3 iPad minis with internet access.