My Nonprofit Reviews

This year I was able to get iPod Touches and Kindle Fires for use in my 6th grade math class. (I will be able to continue to use them next year with my language arts and social studies classes.) iPod Touches were being used by some other teachers in lower grades, but I was skeptical as to whether the game-like apps would really be useful for 6th grade students and also whether apps that were applicable would engage them. I was pleasantly surprised [after using the iPod Touches (first grant) and then the Kindle Fires (second grant)] as I noticed that students were responding much more quickly, and without counting on their fingers, whenever I would ask students for simple calculations (such as 13-5). Previously at least half of my students had to count on their fingers when asked questions like this. I was also pleasantly surprised at how many students chose to use apps that were strictly practice (i.e.: not gamelike at all) for at least part of their time using the devices. In all, using this technology was more effective than I had hoped. The great thing about EPAK is that you do not have to jump through hoops to get your grant. As long as you get the grant request in on time, give a reasonable explanation for what you are requesting, and get the receipts in on time, you can get some great materials for your classroom. In the past I have gotten other technology and a field trip.

More Feedback