Monday, February 27, 2012

What matters???

Ever wonder if what you're doing is making a difference in how your students learn????  How can you really tell???? Many districts are jumping feet first (or should I say 'check book' first) into the newly popular world of iPads.  I read with envy about the districts who are purchasing mass amounts of iPads and creating many 1-on-1 classrooms.  Can you see the drool on the screen????  Even though I am soooooooooooooooo envious I want to be able to say with some measure of proof that my work with iPads matter.  Do I think they make my students learn more? Do I think they help create better 21st century learners? Do I think my students are more engaged?
YEP, I do!

Unfortunately, there's not much proof out "there"!  ("There" being the land of peer reviewed scientific studies.)  

So, this kindergarten teacher is embarking on a teacher inquiry on the effects of iPads on student learning and engagement.  I will be reviewing student surveys, test results (compared to my neighbor not using iPads) from common assessments along with student gains on the STAR early literacy test.  

Wish me luck!  May the force be with me, break a leg, and anything else you can think of!

2 comments:

  1. I am glad to find your blog. I am a kindergarten teacher in Charleston SC and we have iPads for all of our students. I've been using them for about a year and a half and would love to exchange ideas. I am blogging about my iPads on Wordpress at iteachwithipads.net

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  2. Kristi, Thanks for your comment. I would love to hear how you're using them. I'm hoping to get get more. I'd love a 1-on-1 situation but am working towards a 2-on-1 ratio! Slowly but surely. My kids have created some wonderful things! Can't wait to check out your blog. I'm heading there now!

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