Successful Ipad Implementation
A Guide for Librarians
Management
App management: Ipad management can be handled in different ways depending upon your district tech policies/preferences. Some ipad carts are managed through Apple Configurator and each app is "pushed" using a Macbook that you keep in the library. Other ipad carts are managed from the district level and all apps and updates are "pushed" from district personnel. There are pros and cons to each approach. One thing I liked about having my own Macbook and pushing my own apps was that I was in control and could find and download apps instantly. The thing I did not like was that... I was in control and had to find TIME to find the app, push it out to all ipads... looking for errors, unattached iPads, etc. The good thing about having someone at the district level in charge of managing ipad content is that you can just send a list of apps that you want and they are pushed out for you. The downside to this method is that you are limited to that person's availability. It could be several days before new content is pushed out. This method requires pre-planning when a specific app is needed for a lesson.
Ipad Distribution: The daily check in/check out of iPads can be time consuming. At our school each grade level is assigned a number of ipads. Each teacher comes in to get them when they need them. Teachers who need to reserve a class set must do so in advance so that I can let staff know the availability for that day. I have a carbon copy book where teachers write their name and the ipad numbers they are checking out for that day. I check them off as they are returned. All Ipads are equipped with the "find my Ipad" feature and it is extremely accurate.
Maintenance/Cleaning: When Ipads travel around an elementary school they return in less than pristine condition to say the least. Apple recommends cleaning with a damp cloth moistened with water... but Apple probably doesn't have to remove boogers. I have found alcohol wipes to be the best way to keep Ipads clean and fresh.
We purchased an Ipad contract from Teachers Pay Teachers to use as our lock screen and wallpaper. This helps keep track of Ipad numbers, helps teachers know which students are using which Ipads and also reminds them of the appropriate procedures for using the Ipad everytime they "swipe".
Pictures of students using Ipads
Students Using Ipads for Math Fact Practice
Students Using Ipads During Read A Thon!
Students Using Thing Link To Create Biographies
Nearpod
Socrative
Touchcast
TouchCast is video production app
that combines the look and feel of TV graphics with the interactivity of the web.
Tips and Tricks
Guided Access
Shellean Green, LMS
Email: shellean.green@laurel.kyschools.us
Website: http://www.laurel.kyschools.us/school_home.aspx?schoolid=9
Phone: (606) 862-4647
Twitter: @ShelleanGreen