Research shows that using technology in the classroom increases student learning and engagement. iPad's and iPhone's offer classroom apps that can meet the instructional needs for all students.
Almost all of the apps can be considered fun and visually appealing. One App I wrote about for class was "Human Body". Apps such as this one are fun to play and keep students actively engaged by awesome graphics and sound effects. These apps are designed to keep student's interest, while providing educational material. With enticing graphics and hands-on animated fun, students tend to forget they are even learning.
As we all know, each student is unique and learns in their own way. Like Howard Gardner's multiple intelligence theory states, every child has different learning styles. Effective learning apps appeal to all learners; visual, auditory, tactile, musical,etc.
The great thing about using apps to promote student learning, is that students can work at their own pace. This will eliminate a lot of the stress that some students have when they see their classmates advancing before them.
The best educational apps are interactive. These hands-on apps are fun and encourage students to want to learn. Students can build and develop important skills that are necessary for their education all while they are being entertained. Providing students with interactive applications to assist in their learning can be a very effective teaching tool.
I am all for using iPads and Apps in the classroom, but just like any other technological tool, they must be used effectively to have a positive outcome on student learning and engagment.
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