9th-10th Technology in the Classroom.
Technology in a K12 setting is becoming more and more common. Dozens of study apps and note taking tools are available specifically for students, and teenagers are beginning to think digitally. Digital note taking is nearly standard at the college level and seems to be permeating many other fields and careers. To help prepare for the future and keep with current times, 9-10th grade History students are allowed to bring iPads or tablets to class for note taking and projects only. Students may bring their iPads to class every day, but may only use them for note taking or studying unless instructed to work on a specific project.
What devices can I use? At this time, students may only use iPads or tablets. Laptops and phones are not allowed. Do I have to use an iPad/tablet? No, it is not required for students to use iPads or tablets. There is no major advantage or disadvantage to doing this. It is based entirely on your preferred learning style. If you prefer to write out your notes, keep doing that. If you find you type your notes to study anyway, this is perfect for you. Do we start using iPads/tablets on the 1st Day of school? No, we will begin using iPads/tablets in class after the first test. This will ensure that all students have had their devices approved by Mr. Comstock and parents have turned in permission slips to Mrs. Baker. What if I don't own an iPad/tablet? Don't worry! You will receive a printed set of notes instead. During group activities, you will be paired with someone who has a device. What about my other classes? You will need to get specific permission from your other teachers. This is entirely up to them. Your other teachers reserve the right to deny permission to use iPads/tablets in their classrooms. Please don't bug them about it. |
Download the Technology Permission slip to begin using your iPad/tablet in class.
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Requirements
So I am going to bring an iPad/tablet to class. What do I HAVE to have on that device?
Remember, phones are not allowed.
Can I use a keyboard? Yes, several students prefer to use a bluetooth keyboard, as opposed to typing on their device's screen. This is allowed.
- A web browser (Safari, Google Chrome, etc)
- Email (Gmail is free and easy to use)
- A word processor (for note taking, see below) **Must have a feature that allows you to highlight your notes. The Notes app that comes native with iPad does not do this.**
- Cloud Storage (for saving documents, see below)
Remember, phones are not allowed.
Can I use a keyboard? Yes, several students prefer to use a bluetooth keyboard, as opposed to typing on their device's screen. This is allowed.
Recommendations.
The following apps are just recommendations. You are not required to use these specific apps, but these ones work and are great for students.
Notability
This is easily my favorite note taking app. Like MS Word, you can create your notes and start typing or you can download the notes that I provide the class and type on top of those. The highlight and draw features are pretty awesome and notes are easy to organize by subject. Drawback: This app is not free. |
Microsoft Word
This app is super easy to use and compatible with the MS Word you know and love. As a bonus, it is a FREE app. You must have a Microsoft Live account, which is free and requires only an email address. Drawback: You will not be able to use the class notes. You will have to type everything yourself. |
Microsoft OneNote
The great thing about this app is that it was designed specifically for taking notes. It is easy to organize your notes, highlight, doodle, add pictures, etc. As a bonus, it is a FREE app. You need a Microsoft Live account. Drawback: You will not be able to use the class notes easily. You will most likely need to type everything yourself. |
Dropbox
This program works like a digital flash drive. It is a great spot to back-up apps (like Notability) and store any created files. Also if you are working on a project and have some files saved at home, this app will allow you to view and edit the documents at school. A FREE app. Requires an email address. |
Google Drive
This app serves as digital flash drive. Allows you to view and edit documents at school. A FREE app. Requires a Gmail email address. Drawback: Not as compatible with apps as Dropbox. |
iStudiez Pro
Just letting you know about this one for fun. If you hate writing homework in your assignment book, but love using your iPad, this would be a great app to try. It is user-friendly and customizable with your schedule. Fun feature: you can schedule reminders for upcoming assignments. Drawback: This app is not free. |