IPads+in+the+Life+Skills+Classroom


 * The iPad in a LIfe Skills Classroom**
 * Author: Janis Greeno**

Elementary Life Skills teachers in Autism.


 * Benefits of iPad use in SE Classroom**
 * Organization of classroom tools.
 * Accessible with touchscreen so very engaging.
 * Be sure to Velcro to the table. Bought an inexpensive stand at Best Buy.
 * Increased student motivation and engagement.
 * A good tool for independent review of skills.
 * Most applications are reasonably priced.
 * Great for sponge activities.
 * Works on motor skills of being able to reach and touch and then they see.

Note: Be sure to buy a stylus for the students to use. There is a short one like a pencil. Was concerned about students throwing But ALL students Are really careful and she has had no incident.


 * Student Success**
 * Improved intelligibility with single words and phrases.
 * Improved handwriting skills
 * Increased participation in teacher directed activities.
 * Demonstration of skills not seen in other activities.

Put sticky notes: this is a __. Used pictures on the iPad. Student would then read "this is a dress." Showed a video of a little girls that was nonverbal prior to the iPad use reading the sentence after sentence.


 * Recommendationfor Applications**
 * Choose apps appropriate for YOUR students.
 * Expensive isn't always better.
 * Try the free version first, use it and purchase full version if app is worthwhile.
 * Ask this question: Are there multiple ways I can use this app.


 * Her favorite apps:**
 * Use ABA in your search.
 * Reading AtoZ allows free downloads on the iPad.
 * Writing program: I Write Words
 * Counting: 123 Count
 * Montessori Crosswords
 * Teacher Resource: Sign for Me - A signing Avatar $12.99
 * Tumble books: six books for $1.99
 * Magnetic Alphabet Board

Groups.google.com/group/iPads-in-education. This is a Google group for sharing ideas. Site is just in it's infancy.


 * Considerations:**
 * The iPad should only be used as a supplemental tool.
 * Students need to be able to generalize skills. Do they really know the concept or are they just able to play the game.
 * Students still need to learn through manipulation of real items. Example they still need to use real blocks and hold real books.
 * Monitor students as they use the applications to make sure they understand the
 * Enable restrictions before allowing students to access the iPad independently. Settings>restrictions.
 * Always have backup activities.