Now more than ever, educators must work to capture the attention and appeal to the many varying learning styles of their students in order to facilitate all around success. It is essential as we move forward into the 21st century and are immersed in the age of technology, innovation, and instant gratification, that our teachers and the way in which we approach education does not get left behind.
The upcoming age of students are the first generation of digital natives to pass through the doors of our schools, demanding an education that is fast-paced, interactive, and technologically driven. It is up to us as teachers to utilize the resources of our time, such as the iPad, to create a classroom atmosphere that is both stimulating and effective.
The use of iPads in education can be especially helpful in igniting interest among students that would typically deem a class irrelevant to their lives, such as mathematics. It's no secret that not all students are inherently proficient in, or riveted by the subject of math. However, by introducing the iPad as a tool for learning and mastering material, students will have the opportunity to approach mathematics in a hands on and interactive way.
Having said that, it is imperative that when implementing the iPad in a math class educators pay special attention to whether the technology is being used effectively and efficiently. It is crucial that we, as educators, do not fall back on the use of technology in the classroom just for the sake of doing so. When planning objectives for the students and their iPads, always keep in mind our prominent goal of academic progress and forward motion; technology should never hinder or slow down a lesson plan or learning process in any way.
Questions to Consider Before Carrying Out iPad-Based Instruction:
- Am I an expert in the applications/programs I will be using?
- Have my students had adequate practice on the iPad in order to master the basics?
- Will the use of iPads enhance my lesson plan? (i.e. provide additional practice for students, add an interactive learning component)
- Am I prepared for any technological "hiccups" that may occur? (i.e. a student's iPad dies)
Reflecting on these questions before moving forward with using iPads in the classroom can help to ensure that lessons will reach their full potential in terms of effectiveness and interactivity. Additionally, by choosing applications that are relevant to and appropriate for the content area can help to maximize success.
For secondary mathematics, there are a few fundamental categories for useful applications.
Applications for Calculation Purposes:
The applications listed below would be great tools for students to use during class to assist in calculating. Such applications could be used as a replacement for the traditional calculator, such as the TI-83.
The applications listed below are great tools for students who like to review the material they previously learned. These would be beneficial for review sessions before an exam so students can focus their attention on specific areas they have difficulty with.
Applications for Student Practice:
The applications listed below would be helpful for students during independent study time as they contain an extensive bank of practice problems that help students master the material. Teachers could use this application to assign sample questions for homework assignments or as review for an exam.
For secondary mathematics, there are a few fundamental categories for useful applications.
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| GeoBoard |
Applications for Calculation Purposes:
The applications listed below would be great tools for students to use during class to assist in calculating. Such applications could be used as a replacement for the traditional calculator, such as the TI-83.
- Graphing Calculator HD
- This application has all the benefits of a scientific calculator, such as plotting functions and tracing equations.
- Solve Pro
- A benefit of using this application is that it solves the equation as the student is typing and has memory features for saving previous answers.
The applications listed below are great tools for students who like to review the material they previously learned. These would be beneficial for review sessions before an exam so students can focus their attention on specific areas they have difficulty with.
- Algebra Touch
- This application provides overviews of topics in algebra such as simplification and factorization. Each lesson includes practice problems to ensure that students are understanding the concepts.
- Wolfram Calculus Course Assistant
- This application will guide students through coursework and give step-by-step instruction on how to solve problems, instead of simply supplying the final answer.
Applications for Student Practice:
The applications listed below would be helpful for students during independent study time as they contain an extensive bank of practice problems that help students master the material. Teachers could use this application to assign sample questions for homework assignments or as review for an exam.
- Math Ref
- While working through examples on this application, students can access features such as formula reference cards and definitions of relevant vocabulary.
- GeoBoard
- This applications gives students the power to create their own polygons and determine measurements such as area and perimeter. This would be a useful tool for reviewing concepts of geometry.
Consider incorporating an application from each of these categories to varying lesson plans in order to provide additional resources that students can use to learn, practice and master the material.
References:
GeoBoard [Screenshot]. (2012). Retrieved September 6, 2012, from:
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/geoboard-by-math-learning/id519896952?mt=8
