Diffusion of the iPad into the Brandywine School District Leandra Lewis Walden University

What is an iPad? A multi-touch screen tablet device that is about the size of the average paperback and lightweight. The iPad provides users quick access to resources via the internet or through Apple’s App store. The responsive touch screen allows for ease of use and manipulation of tools.

Multi-Touch Screen Multi-touch sensing is able to recognize the presence of two or more points of contact with the surface. With this capability users are able to use such features as pinch to zoom. It also accommodate multiple users simultaneously.

iPad Apps 0 The App Store keeps the classroom at your fingertips with thousands of apps available for download. Students can use apps to take notes, and track assignments, while teachers can give lesson, monitor progress and stay organized. Many apps are available for free, but for those that have a minimal cost, Apple offers a volume purchase program for institutions to help minimize this added expense.

Teaching and Learning at Your Fingertips 0 How students learn has transformed in this digital age and how we teach them needs to be a reflection of this change. With the iPad teachers are able to use a device well known to students to create a learning experience that will engage everyone and extend beyond the four walls of the traditional classroom.

Need: what problem or need existed that gave rise to the ipad? 0 Increase student engagement in the learning environment. 0 Using interactive applications to increase achievement of special education students. 0 Embrace current technology that students are exposed to outside of school. 0 Limited opportunities for students to explore and share their learning with others in the class. 0 Inability of teachers to manage multiple tasks and recordkeeping.

Research: Who met these needs? Today there are many companies that have produced tablets to compete with the iPad. While most of these are less expensive, Apple’s iPad by far provides the most resources that can be used to benefit all learners in the classroom environment. Apple’s products are designed to inspire creativity and hands on learning that can be easily integrated into any curriculum to increase engagement and learning in the classroom.

English Language Arts Students can find an app to master various skills in both reading and writing. Grammar Up HD Shakespeare in Bits How Rocket Learned to Read more information visit:

Mathematics Apple has provided more interactive ways to make learning math engaging and fun for all students. Mathboard Math Bingo For more information visit:

Apps in Science Students will use the Apps to learn more about biology, physics, chemistry, anatomy, astronomy, and much more. Monster Anatomy Star Walk For more information visit:

History and Geography Use these Apps to explore the world from past to present. History: Maps of World Virtual History ROMA AP U.S. History For more information visit:

Language Developement These Apps help students who are learning English as a second language or any other language. These Apps will provide help in reading, writing, speaking, and vocabulary. Intro to Letters by Montessorium For more information visit:

Accessibility There are Apps available to help those with visual and hearing challenges in addition to those with different learning styles. Proloquo2Go Assistive Chat Scene Speak For more information visit:

Possible challenges for implementing iPads into the classroom 0 Requires a wireless environment for use in the classroom. If schools are not currently functioning with wireless capabilities, there will be an added expense. 0 Costs per unit starts at $499. Is the iPad something that you want each student to have or one per classroom? Bundle packages are available for larger orders. 0 For whole group instruction connections to a projector or the use of a document camera is required.

iPad Sales 0 Apple’s iPad was introduced in April Prior to its launch, there was already an interest in how it could be used as a learning tool in the classroom. A 4 th grade teacher from Homestead Elementary School was impressed with the iPad 3 months prior to the launch and said “ personally I wouldn't buy a $1,200 laptop for the classroom, but it sounds like the iPad would not only be useful and portable, but also more affordable” – Ashlee Ritzko 0 Marketing research firm, iSuppli, projected that sales would initially be driven by early adopters but as time passed, others would be attracted to the user interface. This lead them to project sales of the iPad exceeding 60 million by the end of 2012.

S-Curve for iPads The s-curve for the iPad is still in a growth rate after only being on the market for almost 2 years. Sales rates will continue to increase with Apple allowing other retailers to market and sell the iPad. In their last quarter sales, Apple reported 9.25 million iPads sold which was higher than Wall Street projections for overall tablet sales of 8 million. While sales are still on an upward progression, it is unclear how many have been purchased by educational institutions.

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Timeline Knowledge Stage The buzz of the iPad and its many capabilities is known in the education community. Decision Stage April 2010, the iPad is introduced and sales are climbing. Implementation Stage By December 2010, Schools are beginning to pilot using the iPad as a classroom instructional tool Million units sold Confirmation Stage September 2011 – Apple announces that at least 600 K-12 districts across the nation have implemented the iPad in some form. Apple is projected to sell 43.7 million units. By the end of 2012, sales are expected to reach over 63 million units.

Impacts on Education Several districts in states across the country have begun implementing the iPad as an instructional and learning tool. As time passes, the rate of adoption of the iPad into education increases. So we can safely say that the iPad is quickly approaching critical mass.

Impacts on Education 0 Schools have been able to reduce costs by eliminating the use of textbooks and cutting their paper supply. 0 Apple has joined forces with textbook publishers to develop programs for the iPad that match textbook curriculums. 0 Secondary courses such as Music, Art, and Foreign Language can find Apps that can be used in instruction. 0 Students with special needs gain independence that may be not be achieved with the traditional media. 0 Piloted in school districts in New York, California, New Jersey, Arizona, Illinois, and North Carolina.

Ipad as a Management Tool 0 Teachers can organize lessons, record attendance, and manage student grades. 0 Educators can immediately assess student work and provide instant feedback. 0 Ability for educators to collaborate and share instructional lessons with others easily. 0 Data is transferrable to a PC or MAC system with ease. 0 Administrators become more mobile and can provide instant feedback to teachers after observations.

iPad – Instructional Tool 0 Replaces the need for physical textbooks. 0 Opportunity for teachers and student to correspond. 0 Students can collaborate with multiple learners in the classroom. 0 Test preparation. 0 Interactive learning that engages all students. 0 Submit class projects and homework. 0 Students create digital portfolio of their learning.

Decentralized vs. Centralized Approach 0 Implementing the iPad will take a joint effort of those educators who are already familiar with the device and the administrative team. 0 There would be a mixed (hybrid) approach for the adoptions of the iPad. 0 Funding and the Implementation schedule will be centralized by district officials. 0 Purchase of the Apps and learning tools will be decentralized by building. Not all schools (K-5, Middle, and High) will utilize the same Apps because of differences in curriculum and student population.

Change Agents 0 Most educators recognize the need for implementing devices like the iPad into the classroom learning environment. Those who oppose (laggards) this change due so because of the fear that the traditional approach to learning is lost when you begin implementing these digital tools. However, research has shown that these devices bring an added value to all learners in the classroom; visual, tactile, auditory, plus can be used as a tool that benefits students with special needs. 0 To help sway the laggards into adopting this device, they will need opportunities to try the device first hand to see what opportunities it has as an instructional tool. 0 Laggards also need to understand that the iPad is not replacing teaching as they know it, but providing an added value to their current lessons.

Seven Roles of Change Agents 0 Develop a need for change. 0 Establish an information exchange relationship. 0 Diagnose problems. 0 Create an intent to change. 0 Translate an intent into action. 0 Stabilize the adoption and prevent discontinuance. 0 Achieve a terminal relationship.

Create an Intent to Change 0 For years educators have been using multiple devices for auditory, visual cues, and hands on instructional aides. 0 Today, we can still have the use of all of these instructional aides but through one device, iPad. 0 The use of one device that is capable of performing multiple tasks will be easier for teachers to manage during their instruction. 0 Will provide ample time for all learners to engage in the lesson.

Translate Intent into Action 0 Those educators currently using the iPad will play a pivotal role during this process. Teachers who are currently familiar with the iPad and its many capabilities can provide demonstrations on how to use the device and the various tools that are available. 0 Establish peer groups to assist with the implementing and training of the iPad.

Stabilized Adoption and Prevent Discontinuance 0 Continue use of peer groups, possibly broken down by grade clusters, to discuss successes and concerns with use of the iPad. 0 Keep abreast of how other schools are using the iPad in the classroom and look for new opportunities to enhance instruction. 0 Allow students and parents to provide feedback on how they feel the use of the iPad has changed the learning environment.

Benefits of the iPad 0 Technology is transforming the daily practice of administrators, educators, and students. Each year educational resources become more digitized to compliment the latest technology. In addition, most students are already familiar with these devices before they enter the classroom for the first time. Educational institutions must embrace these devices and explore their potential in the learning environment.

Benefits of the iPad 0 School districts across the country have begun using the iPad in their schools to: 0 Cut long term spending on supplies such as textbooks and copy paper. 0 Transform the traditional computer lab into a media center. 0 Provide more time for administrators to be visible in their schools 0 Maximize time for teachers with a device that can help manage their records and be used for instruction simultaneously. 0 Enhance the learning of all students.

Benefits of the iPad 0 Administrators will be able to multi-task with the iPad. 0 The device allows Principals and Vice Principals to become more visible in the classrooms and has tools that can help manage their responsibilities. 0 It is a time saving tool. Administrators can give instant feedback before leaving an observation.

Benefits of the iPad 0 The iPad allows teachers the ability to: 0 Track assignments and student attendance. 0 Easily differentiate instructional lessons with the numerous Apps available. 0 Engage all learners in the classroom with the vibrant screen, audio capabilities, and multi-touch system. 0 Can be used for whole group instruction via a projector or as an independent practice device for students. 0 Create digital portfolios of student work.

Benefits of the iPad 0 Students who use the iPad will be able to: 0 Complete assignments and tasks with ease regardless of learning style. 0 Students will special needs can use various Apps that will boost their learning experience and confidence. 0 Work independently or in collaborative pairs. 0 Interact with teacher during instruction or outside the classroom setting. 0 Actively participate in the learning environment.

Conclusion Diffusing the iPad into schools within the Brandywine District will transform instruction and learning. Administrators, teachers, and students alike will be able to accomplish more tasks in less time and share information when necessary. Most importantly, students will maximize their learning which will lead to an increase in their academic performance. The district will also be ensuring that all students are equipped with 21 st century skills upon successfully completing high school. There is the potential to save money as more publishers have their textbooks available on-line and are working with Apple to created Apps that match the curriculum and standards. Lastly, this diffusion will assist the district in meeting some of the required guidelines as a Race to the Top recipient.

References 0 McCrea, B.. (2010, January). Measuring the ipad ‘s potential for education. THE Journal, 0 McGrath, D.. (2010, October). ISuppli again boosts iPad sales forecast. Electronic Engineering Times,(1590), 8. Retrieved September 25, 2011, from ProQuest Computing. (Document ID: ). 0 McManus, T. (2011, July 14). Richmond County school adminstrators get iPads. Augusta Chronicle, The (GA). Retrieved from EBSCOhost.. 0 Mulholland, J. B. (2011). iPads Strengthen Education. Government Technology, 24(4), Retrieved from EBSCOhost. 0 Seitz, P.. (2011, July). Apple eps up 122% on iPhone, iPad sales. Investor Business Daily, 1. 0 Shah, N. (2011). Special Ed. Pupils Find Learning Tool In iPad Applications. (Cover story). Education Week, 30(22), Retrieved from EBSCOhost.