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The use of technology as a teaching tool in the classroom can increase student engagement and motivation. However, it can also be distracting. Some classrooms are integrating iPads and various learning apps into the curriculum, despite this risk.
Early literacy skills in particular have been effectively taught through specific iPad apps. These types of apps can be useful for students who need individual practice on simple skills, making the tablet devices effective supplements to the traditional teacher-led classroom.
Some of the early literacy skills that can be effectively taught with iPad apps are:
Technology like iPads are ultimately a supplemental resource and have limitations. They do not replace teaching done by a parent or teacher through explanation, clarification, or guiding questions that fill in gaps left by an app.
When integrating technology into the classroom, especially technology like iPads, the apps being used as learning tools must be carefully considered.
Apps that are successful as learning tools generally should:
There are recommended types of apps to use in the classroom, as well as specific skills that are better learned through iPads.
In one study, kindergarteners and 4th grade students were paired up and participated in a TV language based program intended to enhance vocabulary
2. Reading a book related to the clip
3. Drawing or journaling
4. Talking about target words
Integrated Learning System technology like the Istation can be an effective way to individualize student learning - one can build a computer system that integrates curriculum and adapts instruction to achieve mastery of any skill.
Practice of skills in which mastery is not initially achieved is built back into the program, changing the focus of the curriculum to improving those skills.
An integrated learning system (and technology in general) tends to focus more on accuracy and speed and is a good supplement to a traditionally teacher-led classroom.
Classrooms that integrate Istation and other technology teaching systems into classrooms effectively provide individualized practice for students, improving their general skill-set.
Web-based literacy games are internet browser-based games that focus specifically on reading and letter tasks
Web-based games have been shown to help with the following literacy skills:
Who benefits?
The game should be focused on literacy development as the main goal, if it is a secondary goal the game will be ineffective.
The game should start off slightly more advanced than the child is capable of and begin the scaffolding process
The game should not leave children trying to figure things out on their own, providing positive feedback and encouraging the right answers is key
Studies have shown these games will not be effective for younger children since more advanced cognition and motor skills are needed so don't start kids on these games too early!