I cannot believe that this class is over. It seems like we just had our first class. I have really enjoyed learning more about all of the different apps and ways to use iPads in the classroom. The options are endless.

One thing that has really stuck out to me from the course is exploring the accessibility features on the iPad. Truly incredible! As we were talking about them in class on day, it was in a quick moment that I realized that these were not just “extra” or “cool” things. The iPad was universally designed. In reference to buying tablets, I have often heard people talk about how iPads were so expensive, and people would wonder why Apple would bother with including all of these “extra” things on their devices. And these features not only are used for people LD, or varying types of disabilities, these features can be used for most people.

I have really enjoyed hearing what my fellow classmates are doing in their classrooms and places of work. It really is cool and encouraging. I have taken so many ideas from this class and used them in my planning and classroom. I am working on trying to get an iTunes U course going that I can use in my classroom for students that are on IPPs. One of the biggest challenges I find is their organization. There are a number of students in my grade 8 English class that miss a fair amount of time. There are a couple IPP students in particular. This only increases the gap as it is often difficult to move on. They can’t always just jump into what we are doing that day, or we are halfway through something and they need the support, especially at the beginning. I think having something in iTunes u would be great. Then they have access to it and can see what they need to do, get any work, and there can be instructions on there. Some will struggle with that, but I see it as being particularly beneficial to the learning centre and resource teacher. She often will take groups of students to do work, but I don’t always have time at the beginning of the class to go into much detail. I think this could serve as a line of communication as well. When students are in her room, they could work on what they need to and can ask her any questions and she will have all the information right there. I really enjoyed listening to how Selena was utilizing it in get class with a couple of her students-- inspiring!

I, like everyone else, enjoyed the presentations and the dialogue that stemmed from each presentation. Each one was well done, and I got some ideas that I will be using. The way Donna used Book Creator was awesome! I thought that was such a great idea.  I tutor a boy in grade three and we are just about to start up again and I definitely want to use this with him. I will also be using I will use that in some ways with some of my junior high students. I think it would be a great place for them to display some of their writing. I look forward to using it in that way-- thanks for sharing how you were working with your sweet granddaughter, Sophie! 

To sum it up, I would have to say this course has changed the way I see assistive technology and how it can be used in the classroom. There is so much potential (if you have access to the devices). I have learned so much from all of you the past couple of months and it really encourages me to discuss with you an see how other teachers are incorporating assistive tech in their classrooms.



I came across this video that reminded me about how quickly things are changing (though sometimes it really doesn't feel like it!).



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EjJg9NfTXos#t=59

Thank you all for a great class!