The presentation began with Gr3 students showing us some of their work using the iPads. This was most effective as it presented an authentic student voice. I really appreciated this talk being rooted in Philosophy and Pedagogy - this was led by Kent Jamieson. I personally feel that all use of Educational Technology needs to be grounded in this way - there is simply no point is using technology just for the sake of it! I appreciated hearing about the different uses of the iPad in supporting the curriculum, especially in terms of reading assessment. I had not realised that the iPads were student owned rather than school owned. The practical implication of this is that students may have their own extra personal apps, in addition to school required apps. Shauna was candid in telling us how this app peer pressure was addressed in school.
My 'big idea' is grappling with the following question: 'To what degree is this project covering Technology Integration in a way that Collingwood is not, and what are we achieving in Technology Integration that Mulgrave is not? ' My initial feeling is that both approaches are complimentary rather than mutually exclusive.
There is no doubt in my mind that iPads are both engaging and very easy to use. Thus an iPad program is very accessible and able to support the curriculum well. However there are areas that are under-served, for example the lack of Flash compatibility excludes some wonderful activities.
I am still pondering......