iOS Apps in School
These classroom tools are all free in the App Store.
VoiceThread
Example: Students are assigned a project topic which allows them to practice their fluency. VoiceThread also allows for peers to add comments and give constructive criticism. This encourages auditory learning, and collaboration among peers. Editable audio clips that are done on their own time may be better for students who struggle with speaking in front of an audience.
Evernote
Example: When studying for a quiz or exam, students can easily 'search' for the section that they need to use rather than flip through pages and pages in their notebook. The use of technology also allows students to cut and paste rather than having to erase their work to move it to another section of notes.
BrainPOP
Example: If the topic for the next day is complex, teachers can assign videos to students to watch beforehand. Their new knowledge can help guide the discussion and students will be inclined to share the information they learned on their own time.
CamScanner
This app allows you to "scan" documents, posters, and photographs using the camera that is already a part of your mobile device. CamScanner captures and straightens, edits and converts the image into a pdf or jpg file.
Example: Students can draw images on paper that they need for a photoshop project, and capture them with CamScanner. They can edit the image and incorporate it into a web poster than can be distributed online. This eliminates the dangers of copyright, and is much easier for many students than drawing on a digital tablet.
Seesaw: The Learning Journal
Example: As it can be used over an extended period of time, teachers can assign it as a semester project. Assignments that demonstrate students' knowledge can be put into the journal periodically. In the end, students can choose their strongest entry to be assessed. This allows students to demonstrate their understanding in the way that works best for them. This can be especially effective if the individual assignments have a lot of variation.
20lines - Write and read stories
Example: Teachers can give students a prompt for a story, whether it be a quote or an image, and create a channel dedicated to that specific prompt. Students can contribute their own creative writing in the form of electronic books and share them with the other students. Students can comment and chat with each other outside of class, allowing for constructive criticism and peer editing.