Technology in the Classroom

When I first introduced the laptops and iPad into the classroom I was worried that using the technology would take away from my students collaboration skills.  I was concerned that the computers would become babysitters and my noisy, active classroom would become a quiet, library.  However, this has not been the case.  The students eagerly share what they are doing on the computers with their peers.  They usually set up the laptops in such a way that they can interact with each other while on the computers.  Picture a classroom with laptops and students all around on the floor sharing with and teaching each other the various computer programs.  In a few short months, my grade ones can create comics on Comic Life, manouver the Internet independently to access StarFall, Kerpoof, their blogs, ICT games, and explore with Photo Booth and Kids Pix.  Through exploration, my students have discovered all kinds of neat things on Kids Pix.  Their favourite way to use Kids Pix is on the Smartboard.  My students also really enjoy using the iPad and from the minute they arrive at school until 2:34 the iPad is in constant action.  We are finding it really difficult to share one iPad but have come up with a schedule so that everyone gets time on it.  The students also have found ways to share it, often inviting their friends to listen to stories and work on a story or game together.  My dream is to have more iPads so that the students can each have more time with the apps.  Everyday my students show me new things that you can do with the technology.  This journey with technology has been very exciting and I am excited to see what else they can do and learn!

Students creating a story on Scribble Press with the iPad.