SMART boards Interactive whiteboards that combine digital technology with traditional whiteboards that enable user to project computer images onto board and edit these images with a special pen. Pros: -Allow student/student and student/teacher interaction and participation. -Allows students to visualize concepts and see step by step examples -Relates to modern day technology based students way of life Cons: -Expensive, ranges vary but can up to thousands of dollars -May not be practical or applicable to every classroom -Steep learning curve; difficult to learn how to use

Computer Projectors Projectors are devices that allow computer screens to become enlarged onto a wall, usually the front wall of a classroom. This allows students to see a clear representative of the subject and page they are learning in class. Pros: -You can present to a whole classroom, allowing every student to see exactly what is going on -You can use it as a supplemental tool while you are writing on the board or talking about something else Cons: -Takes a while to set up -Cannot write on it and interact with it -It is expensive to buy, and cost money to replace bulbs and parts; mechanical problems are common

Computers In the late 60’s, the first computers in schools appeared in administration offices. During the late 70’s, computers began to be used by students and from there, their importance in education skyrocketed. In 2003, it was reported that 91% of students from age 3 to grade 12 were using computers. In 2011, it was reported that 30% of college students are enrolled in online education programs (Goldman, 2011). Pros:  Computer skills are required in most job settings, having access to computers in school allows for development of those skills  With internet access, computers enable independent learning  With laptops, students are able to do work at home  In college, students are able to take notes, record lectures, conduct research, and even take courses online. Cons:  Providing computers for students is expensive  Especially with recent technology  Possible damages to the computers if taken out of school  Providing internet and computer access could prove distracting for students in the classroom (e.g. online games, social websites, etc.)  Using computers for only academic purposes would need enforcement and could cause inconveniences for teachers.

iPads Essentially, iPads are mini-computers that are lightweight and portable. Due to their growing popularity since their release in 2010, some teachers are considering integration of the device into their classrooms. Pros:  Lightweight and portable, the iPad is easy for students to transport to and from home  iPads are very accessible and even young children are able to work with them  Some children with disorders such as ADHD find some iPad programs helpful  Books can be bought/rented (a feature that has become popular with college students)  Although they are touch screen, they are capable of hooking up to keyboards and other gadgets that allow students to work with them as they would with laptops or desktops. Cons:  iPads, like other Apple products are expensive (average of $329)  They, like other computer devices, can serve as distractions in the classroom (and with its small size, the iPad is easier to conceal)  The iPad was developed with the assumption that the user has internet access so internet access may also be required for students

iTunes Audiobooks Audiobooks are a form of books that are available through iTunes. Students are able to listen to the book while following along to the actual book or listening to different segments of the book more than once. Pros: -You can learn by doing other tasks in the classroom. -Listen to parts more than once to be understood and retained. -You can listen to an audio book while following along to an actual book and help learn words. Cons: -Difficult to follow if you do not have the actual book. -Can only listen in iTunes -Pay for most books.

Video Conferencing Video conferencing in classrooms is another way of learning throughout all grades. People at separate locations can communicate with each other using video and audio transmissions. Pros: -Allows students to take virtual field trips. -Interview experts of different subjects. -Students from different schools around the world can work together. Cons: -Many necessities; camera, microphone, speakers, audio system, and monitor. -Audio/video delays -Internet connection

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