FAQs: 1:1 iPad Rollout Workshops

1:1 iPad Rollout Workshops

Is this new plan going to cost the district more money?

• This plan is cost-neutral for the district. Available funds are being reallocated to support the accelerated rollout timeline, including this phased approach.

If more teachers sign up then you have spots how will teachers be chosen?

• Teachers are enrolled on a first come first serve basis. Trainings must be taken in sequential order.

What devices will student/teachers get for completing these trainings?

• A committee of teachers and administrators unanimously selected iPads as the best tool to support instruction in Elkhart Community School classrooms. Statements from members on the selection committee can be seen below:
  • "You can create unique opportunities for personal learning at every level. Lessons become more immersive through the power of touch, motion, and sound. Assignments can be sketched, scored, charted, coded, or performed. And the work your students need to do becomes the work they love to do."
  • "...The touch screen is definitely a plus and the Google apps are still accessible through the iPad. In addition, Apple has far more resources available for educators than Google. I am very excited about so many possibilities in my classroom."
  • "...I thought chromebooks was the way to go. However my mind was changed...Switching to iPads will be great for the students because of all the apps that can help facilitate higher level thinking. I like all the resources and support that Apple has to offer. I believe switching will help our students in their postsecondary lives."
  • "The possibilities are endless with the Ipad."

What if I can’t make the first Cohort?

• There are multiple Cohorts being run throughout the year, so you can choose when to attend the class.
• We will be adding more cohorts in the fall and a few during the summer after school gets out.

What if I can’t make one of the days?

• To get the most out of the course, you need to be in attendance during all four weeks. Extraordinary circumstances will be accommodated, but if you know you cannot make one day during a particular time period, please choose a different cohort to attend.

I already know everything there is to know about Google and Canvas? Do I still need to go to these trainings?

• Trainings are based on instructional practices with technology and not technology itself therefore it is necessary to take Phase trainings in sequential order. Trainings will model best practice in classrooms while allowing you to experience hands on learning and collaboration that will allow us to redesign the way we are able to teach. You will have the opportunity to work with other like minded professionals, growing your personal learning network as well as brainstorming ways to increase engagement, collaboration, literacy and problem solving in your classroom.

All the trainings are full. Will you have any more?

• We will be announcing summer sessions in the coming weeks to accommodate teachers who cannot attend sessions during the school year. Check back on this site and watch for an email from Instructional Technology with details.