iAccess Day 1: Exploration & Discovery

Well, just as expected the iPods are a hit with the students. Today we worked on getting familiar with the devices. It was an "Exploration Day" so to speak. I was surprised with the little exposure some students have had with iPods. Some seemed to hold it as if it would break while others dove right in. To sum up our first day, there were definitely a few satisfying and exciting moments.

Here are few-

This student (above) was excited about every single aspect. He wanted to use the "twitter" app to share what he was learning. In fact I think he asked at least 5-6 times today. Sounds like validation to me.

A couple students immediately went to the "Maps" app to search for their house. They found them pretty quickly too.

One student began taking pictures & video of white board drawings in an attempt do some stop motion animation.

Another student wrote a note to wish her older brother a happy birthday via twitter.

For what it's worth it was a GREAT first day. I'm looking forward to more, I think the kids are too.

iAccess- Is That an iPod....

....why yes it is.
This year I decided to purposefully start using iPods in my classes. The main intention for the use of the iPod as an access tool & assistive technology device is as follows:

1. To increase access to content area learning, 
2. To provide a gateway to reading and math proficiency.
3. To assist students in developing strategies for task performance.
4. Create opportunities for self-monitoring, self-reflection, empowerment, and independence 
5. They're pretty cool.
6. ....

As many may know I am a special educator. I teach across content areas, provide intensive intervention in math, reading, social skills (affective needs), collaborate through consultation on behavior, differentiation, accommodation and modification, etc. Reading and math intervention tools such as Corrective Reading, Language!, Math Navigator and others have become tools of the trade for special and general educators alike. Well, sometimes these interventions can come across pretty bland. Lets face it, these tools for intervention, used as a tier 2 or 3 can be cumbersome, dry and lead to continued academic apathy in kids who already have low motivation for school.

Over the course of the year I intend to build interest and motivation related not only to the aforementioned types of academic interventions, but to foster and establish an interest in the ownership of education. I do not presume by any means that the iPod/iPad is a "magic pill" that will eliminate all academic problems. To do so would be naive. I do however believe in the power of access. It is my sincere belief that tools such as the iPod and iPad can impact student achievement, student perceptions of school, the conceptions of self and ability, while providing them tools for independence, collaboration, and preparation for the possibilities and opportunities that await them in adulthood.

As we look at building capacity within our models of schooling and developing effective, sustainable systems of intervention and practice, I feel strongly that these tools can provide not only the intangibles necessary for educational motivation but for content knowledge and academic growth.


So, please stay tuned as we embark on this adventure through a world of possibilities, opportunities, and exploration.