A Letter to My Wife

My Dearest Wife,

My Introduction to Educational Media class with Dr. Krug has had a serious unintended consequence. We have spend the past six days learning about and experiencing some of the technologies that can support and enhance our teaching and student learning. One such device is the iPad.

We have spent a significant amount of time working with the iPad and I wanted to share with you some of the advantages I have discovered.

• Combined with the power of Google Docs, the iPad makes for a terrific tool for tests and quizzes.
• Using iBook is a great way to encourage students to read.  One of the trends today is digital text books.  Instead of students having to carry five, six or even more heavy text books, these can all be loaded onto the iPad.  With the ability to highlight and take notes and then to see those notes and highlights gathered in one place has the potential for easier studying and longer retention.
• The multimedia and interaction of the iPad is sure to make learning more enjoyable and exciting for the students.
• Most of the literature classics are available for the iPad for free or next-to-free.
• In Rhode Island, Teri Thompson, a 12-year-old student said, “When teachers say, ‘Get out your worksheet,’ I’m like, ‘OK,’ “When they say, ‘Get out your iPad,’ I’m like, ‘Yes! The iPad!’ ” 
•  Some schools are evening offering online classes for either remedial work or advanced placement.
• The iPad makes it possible for students to practice letters, multiplication, or even make music.

Granted, having a iPad doesn't make a bad teacher good, but perhaps it can make a great teacher even better.

Giving the direction things are heading, I'm sure you can see why it is important that I buy an iPad.  Besides, it's only money!!! 

Your Loving Husband,

Jerry