Using iPads in the Classroom

In my opinion, technology in the classroom is awesome! The iPad inspires creativity and hands-on learning. Powerful apps from the App Store let students explore with content in interactive ways, find information in an instant, and access an entire library wherever they go. Although the purchasing of iPads for every student can be expensive, "Apple does provide what is known as the “App Store Volume Purchase Program” where an educational institution can buy “Volume Vouchers,” and apps can be purchased in volume
and distributed to multiple devices" (Roblyer & Doering, 2012, p. 229).

Not only can iPads be used to keep the students engaged it can also be a great resources for the teacher. With the iPad, teachers can keep track of grades, attendance and so much more by either using apps or creating spreadsheets. "Teachers can use spreadsheets in many ways to enhance
learning. The literature, in fact, reflects an increasing variety of applications. Although their teaching role focuses primarily on mathematics lessons, spreadsheets have also effectively supported instruction in science, social studies, and even language arts" (p. 125).

If afforded the opportunity, I would use the iPad to do more virtual labs with my Biology class, keep track of my IEPs as well as keep discipline records. Too, I would use it to explore news articles in my Environmental Science classes as well integrating presentation software in both of my classes. Presentation software allows the students to create individual or small-group presentations to document and display results of research they have done and/or to practice making persuasive presentations. "Having learners become the designers and experts of content, in the end presenting their work to the class, can serve as a powerful technology integration lesson for any domain of learning " (p. 133).


 There are several apps available that can help science teachers especially promote inquiry oriented science instruction. "The basis for inquiry oriented science instruction is developing varied opportunities for students to learn science process skills, such as collecting, sorting, and cataloging; observing, note taking,
and sketching; and interviewing, polling, and surveying" (p. 317).

Four iPad Apps for Education:

TeacherPal is a personal organizer for the teacher. It enables the teacher to organize classes, and students. Its simple and intuitive interface enables teachers to track the attendance, grades, and behavior of students.

ScreenChomp is a free, yet highly intuitive and powerful app that teachers and students can quickly master. To use ScreenChomp you simply touch the record button; draw on the whiteboard using the available pen or markers; and provide a running narrative. ScreenChomp records your voice and drawing and then allows you to upload your creation to ScreenChomp.com. After uploading your project, you have the option to share your project  via e-mail, Twitter, or on the clipboard. ScreenChomp also allows you to make annotations on an image or photo in much the same way you will on the whiteboard.

ShowMe is a dynamic, free presentation and creation app. This application integrates at all levels of Bloom's Taxonomy and allows teachers an opportunity to create lessons, remediation options and accessible references for student review.

Zite is a great tool that can be used to open the door to wonderful discussions or for journaling and even art class! Zite is a free, personalized magazine for your iPad that automatically  learns what you like and gets smarter every time you use it. Zite delivers all the great news, articles, blogs, and videos you want. .


Roblyer, M. D.; Doering, Aaron H. (2012-01-17). Integrating Educational Technology into Teaching (6th Edition). Pearson. Kindle Edition.

Now following @IpadSammy @classroom_tech @TeachersApps and @TechChef4u for tips on using iPads in the classroom #ED5059413UWA
— Reese F. Baby ™ (@DiVaLishReC) June 24, 2013