iPads in the Classroom

iPads are becoming more and more common in elementary classrooms. They are an awesome learning tool that really fosters the use of technology! Teachers are using iPads for many different things in the classroom. There are many apps for behavior management available in which teachers can reinforce positive behaviors. Teachers can also take attendance, keep track of student progress, and record grades. Another thing that can be extremely helpful is using a whiteboard app that can correspond with what is being projected to the front of the room. This way teachers can walk around the classroom while still writing information that all students will be able to see. It is also beneficial for teachers to be able to take photos and videos easily at any given time throughout the school day. For the students there is an extensive list of educational apps and games available to foster learning. This could be used within a lesson, at centers, or as a reward for students.

Snagit Video

Snagit offers an easy way to make tutorial videos on how to do something on the computer or internet. The video above is an example that Kelsey Fercho, Casie Antony, and I made about how to use Fakebook in the classroom.

Blurring Out Faces

Blurring out faces is a great option when you would like to show certain images on a class website but want to respect the student's privacy. It is very easy to do using Gimp. You simply need to use an oval or circle shape around the faces and use the blur effect.

Forms in Powerpoint

PowerPoint is an easy to use tool for making forms or worksheets for the classroom. Simply find a blank slide, change the size to 8.5x11, and add whatever shapes and text necessary. I chose to make a worksheet on the main parts of a story with allowing space for students to draw their own picture from the story. This is a great way to customize what your students are working on so that it fits perfectly with your objectives. It is also an easy way to make forms for the students or parents to fill out.

Poster Programs

QR Codes

The item on the left is an activity that I created for the classroom using QR codes. For this activity I printed this worksheet out on sticker paper, cut them out, and put them on poker chips. The problem was put on the front with the corresponding QR code on the back. Using their iPads, students can figure out the problem and scan the QR code to see if they got the answer right similar to using flashcards. There are endless possibilities for using QR codes in the classroom that the students will love!

Polaroid Photos

Polaroid photos are a fun project for students! After being given the templates, the students can add their own digital photographs into the frames. This is great because it gives students practice in using digital photography and Photoshop. Once the students have added their photos, they can be printed using standard 4x6 photo paper. This would be perfect for an about me project in the beginning of the year!