Observations...

As I begin to scratch the surface on Ipad possibilities in my classroom, I am intrigued by first reactions. No instruction needed! resonated. As I circulated my Ipad, the engagement was instant, and the students knew how to use it. Call it intuition. Several were quick to share how they could use it in class to enhance their work. Hmmm... students eager to share ways to make their work better, and more productive. I like it! Somehow, I know they will teach me, and lead the way for its optimum classroom use in ways I do not yet know.

Something I've been considering, and will employ early 2011. Reading assessments on the IPad! I will hand a student the IPad, with the TC Reading Assessment text ready to go. (Way to save paper!) More importantly, I am predicting higher engagement about taking a reading assessment in this structure. Will keep you posted on results.

Generally, I find the IPad more personal than the Mac laptop; very portable, looong battery life, and well, just so very cool. Can I see the IPad replacing textbooks? You bet! The exciting thing is that we while we can't imagine all the IPad will do for education, we can begin to reimagine our teaching practices with it in mind.

Best,

Grace