Journal #9: First Graders with iPads? (NETS-T 4)

Getting, S., & Swainey , K. (2012). First graders with iPads?. Learning and Leading with Technology ,40(1), 24-27. Retrieved from Retrieved from www.iste.org/Store/Product.aspx?ID=2515

Summary: This article, “First Graders with iPads?” discusses the effort made by teachers in Minnesota to utilize iPads in the curriculum with their first grade students. The first author addresses the idea that iPads are quite expensive and brought to light that the purchase of such an expensive device for a young child is sane. The authors addressed valuable questions and concerns, but they ultimately argued that the use of the iPads within the curriculum were beneficial. They stated that the function of the iPads in the classroom was greatly influential by increasing the “time on task” (TOT) by 20% for the year. This means that the students were able to maintain attention on tasks, and that it increased by 20% (which is quite a lot). This article was enlightening and fascinating to read; it shows exactly the direction in which our society is going towards the world of technology.

Question #1: As a prospective first grade teacher, would you implement iPads into the classroom curriculum?

Answer#1: I am not one-hundred percent certain as to whether or not I would use iPads in my classroom with such a young group of children. I truly believe that at that age, children need to be interacting with one another and engaging in play. It is important that children have avenues to release their energy and employ their minds in physical activities. If I were to use iPads in my instruction, it would be very seldom.

Question #2: If schools have the money, do you believe that they should adopt the use of technology into their curriculum?

Answer#2: I believe that schools should most definitely adopt technology into their curriculum if they have the resources available to them. With the way that our society is advancing (especially in academics), I believe that utilizing technology is a great benefit. Some students may learn differently than others, and adopting technological resources could reshape the way students learn and absorb information. I believe that curriculums should implement the use of technology but not be solely based on it; this way, every student’s learning style can be addressed.