Apps in the classroom

iPad as a Smartboard? 

My last post was about how we must use discretion about when to incorporate technology into the classroom; however, today's post brings about an instance where I think technology is making a great leap, and should be included into the classroom.

For those users with an iPad, there is a new app called Paper.  Paper works similarly to a journal or a notebook.  It lets you draw or take notes.  The article stated that, "one might be devoted to handwritten notes during meetings, a second could serve as your virtual napkin to sketch out drawings and a third can be used to storyboard a new ad campaign."

With all of the different templates that are useable, the potential for this app is infinite!  The reason I wanted to share the news about this app, is because it reminds me of a mini smartboard.  With the tap of a screen, a student can email their notes, share with friends, and on social media.  It takes interactive learning to a whole new level, because now, if you miss a class, you can get the exact replica of a student's notes in an instant.  Students can submit notes to teachers for notebook checks, and can also serve as other formative assessment tools.

To use this, it does assume that every student has access to an iPad or iPhone, and in a perfect world, everyone does.  Some schools provide their students with these tools, and some students are fortunate enough to have one.  As a teacher, it is imperative that we make ourselves familiar with the most innovative, and newest technology so we are not left behind.  Apps like this one, lets us help our students turn recreational devices into tools for learning.  There are a plethora of others apps out there that help students in the academic setting as well, and we as educators can be the link between fun and learning.