Integrated Experiences

This chapter discusses the integrated experiences of a group of instructors who are using tablets to teach mathematics to adolescents and young adults. iPad technology offers learners in different educational streams and with different knowledge bases an environment that fosters the growth of a community of learners engaged in mathematical concepts and processes. The authors present an in-depth examination of the design of a tablet-based mathematics education environment and provide a statistical analysis to highlight the full richness of their classroom-based experiments. The results are presented using the five foundational aspects of a conceptual framework for the successful implementation of technology in a K-12 environment.

Challenge-Based Learning Using iPad Technology in the Middle School

Instructional models such as Challenge-Based Learning (CBL) reflect changes in traditional methods of teaching. CBL, developed by Apple, promotes problem-based learning, where collaboration and hands-on learning are key elements in the process (Larmer, Ross, & Mergendoller, 2009). Today's learners must develop information literacy and media literacy skills to communicate by way of 21st century tools, and new instructional models reflect these changes. The integration of technology in the classroom has affected education models in elementary and secondary schools across the nation. This chapter presents a mixed-methods study of a middle school involved in a one-to-one iPad initiative. In order to promote student-centered instruction through the use of technology, the middle school adopted a CBL model of instruction. This examination of teachers' concerns with pedagogy and technology depicts readiness for integration and implications of new innovations. The process of change and technology integration is addressed in this chapter.

A Collective Case Study on Two Speech and Language Impaired Learners with Autism

Various treatment methodologies have been demonstrated to be efficacious in instructing learners with autism; however, there is no universal method of treatment, since no single treatment method has been proven to ameliorate the multifaceted symptoms of autism entirely (Lovaas, 1987). This chapter discusses the results of a qualitative study that investigated the functional validity and instructional implications of the implementation of a potential hybrid Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)/Applied Verbal Behavior (AVB) and Apple tablet technology-infused model of instructional intervention targeting the initial language development of two speech- and language-impaired learners with autism. Research was conducted in an attempt to determine whether the hybrid model was operational and effective in teaching verbal behavior skills. Data collection results and observational anecdotal notes indicate that the Apple iPad-infused hybrid model of instruction was operational and more effective in teaching verbal behavior skills than the traditional paper-based instructional method. Furthermore, participants of the study were able to successfully generalize the hybrid model's Discrete Trial Training (DTT) discriminative stimulus targets in diverse natural settings.

Planning for and Managing iPads in a PreK-4th Grade Independent, Co-Educational Elementary School

This chapter chronicles the planning and classroom management practices of the first-year implementation of a 1:1 iPad initiative in a suburban, co-educational, independent, PreK-4th grade elementary school in the United States that was examined through a mixed methods QUAL ? QUAN case study. Findings demonstrate that the school's administrators and teachers engaged in pre-planning activities prior to the implementation of the iPad initiative, teachers viewed the iPads as tools in the planning process (iPads were not perceived as the content or subject to be taught/learned), and teachers flexibly employed different classroom management techniques and rules as they learned to integrate iPads in their classrooms. Additionally, the findings reveal the need for continuous formal and informal professional development that offers teachers multiple and varied opportunities to share their planning and classroom management practices, build their confidence and expertise in effective integration of iPads, and learn with and from one another.

Teaching Mathematics with Tablet PCs

Declining interest in mathematics and the need to raise the educational standards of youth in this discipline set a critical agenda for the revision of pedagogical practices. Tablet PCs and other mobile devices hold a lot of promise as tools for improving education at all levels. The research discussed in this chapter comes from an ongoing, multifaceted program designed to explore the potential of tablet technologies for enhancing mathematics teaching and learning at the primary school level. The program is taking place within a private primary school in Cyprus and aims at the effective integration of one-to-one tablet technologies (iPads) into the mathematics school curriculum. It has adopted a systemic approach to the introduction of iPads in the school setting that focuses on the broad preparation and on-going engagement of all key stakeholders involved in the educational process. In the chapter, the authors report on the main experiences gained from Phase 1 of the program, which involved the design and organization of a professional development workshop targeting the school teachers. The authors describe the content and structure of the workshop and discuss its impact on teachers' knowledge, skills, and confidence in incorporating tablet technologies within the mathematics curriculum.

From App Attack to Goal-Oriented Tablet Use

There is a need to move from the hype of tablets and apps to the usefulness and functionality of tablets' hypermedia capabilities to engage K – 12 students and teachers. Tablets are dynamic devices allowing students and teachers to construct knowledge multimodally, individually, and collaboratively. With so many different types of tablet devices, it is important to make well-informed decisions around goals and educational objectives. A hybrid theoretical approach is offered in this chapter that offers guiding markers. Considering the “four Cs” of context, curriculum, content, and collaboration as foundational guidance, this chapter offers insights and support when integrating educational technology. Considering these elements offers clarity for which theories and practical pedagogy would be applicable and how they should be applied for successful tablet educational engagement. The need exists to theoretically and practically plot and plan how to use tablets and apps, making the educational teaching and learning practice a rich interactive experience.

The Effects of Interactive Multimedia iPad E-Books on Preschoolers' Literacy

As tablet technology becomes more widely available for preschoolers at home and at school, it is necessary to examine the effects of these tools in early childhood education classrooms. This chapter focuses on the use of iPad electronic books (e-books) and their effects on preschoolers' understanding of vocabulary and story comprehension as well as engagement during reading activities in an urban New Jersey school. The results of this study highlight the positive ways in which iPad e-books can be used to support literacy in preschool classrooms. This chapter also includes recommendations for preschool teachers who may be considering using e-books in their classrooms.

The iPad

This chapter discusses the technology vision of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and shares guidelines for choosing apps that are most appropriate to meet those objectives. Towards this end, a specific rubric for evaluating the effectiveness of different apps is presented. Advantages of existing apps that can be incorporated into iPad instruction to enhance conceptual learning and drill mathematics processes are reviewed. Common disadvantages of existing apps are also highlighted. Specific examples of how to make the use of the iPad most efficient and avoid common pitfalls of some purported learning tools are also discussed. The chapter concludes with areas still in need of further research.

Use of Tablet Computers and Mobile Apps to Support 21st Century Learning Skills

In this chapter, the authors provide examples that illustrate ways in which educators can use tablets and mobile apps to redesign school experience in order to support individualized instruction, development of 21st century skills, and anytime anyplace learning. These examples are generated from a two-year examination of a tablet initiative in a private all-boys school. Using insights from human-centered views of mobile learning, the authors highlight interactions among mobile apps, learners, and peers, while examining issues of pedagogy associated with the implementation of mobile learning. They conclude with implications for researchers, educators, and practitioners involved in the implementation of mobile initiatives.

Mobile Devices and Classroom Management

In this account of a fifth grade classroom teacher embarking with her class into the world of mobile learning, three university researchers collaborated to describe her first year experience using iPads in a one-to-one setting. As Ms. G set out to effectively infuse mobile devices into her classroom pedagogy, the authors detail some of the key decisions that led to her successfully managing the iPads while seamlessly adjusting her classroom management strategies to meet the needs of her students and classroom routines. The exploratory case study findings offer practicing educators and teacher educators, alike, helpful suggestions for introducing mobile devices into their classroom and begin a dialogue about the various practices and classroom management implications for a variety of uses of mobile devices in K-6 settings.