We have compiled a list of helpful resources to get you started. Should you come across other valuable resources, please share them with our AT community by leaving the link in a comment below.
“Whatever we possess becomes of double value when we have the opportunity of sharing it with others.” ~Jean-Nicolas Bouilly
Apple iPad User Guide provides an overview of features, as well as specific information about how to alter and utilize controls and settings. This guide is available in HTML format (viewed in a web browser) and PDF format (viewed using OS X and Adobe Acrobat). You can also listen to the user guide by using the iBooks app.
The Apple Website also provides a collection of resources for using the iPad in an educational setting. Here you will find video tutorials, classroom guides and web pages geared specifically to utilizing this technology. There is also a section titled “Accessibility Resources” tailored to the use of Apple Technologies with students with special needs.
- Additionally, the Apple website contains resources for all major educational Apple devices. Whether it’s Mac, iOS devices, For Leadership, In the Classroom or Professional Development, it’s on there. There are Getting Started PDF files, Learning Labs, etc. It is an excellent resource to have when using the iPad in the classroom.
Apple also features a section featuring “Apple Distinguished Educators (ADE’S)” who they recognize as doing amazing things with Apple technology in and out of the classroom. These educators work closely with Apple to lead innovation in education. They share original content, ways to engage students in new ways, and share their expertise. To read about local (Vancouver, BC) ADE Audrey Van Alstyne, as well as others, click here.
Apple also provides one-on-one training opportunities and free one-hour workshops for the iPad. Click here to see what’s available!
Spectronics is an Inclusive Learning Technology company based out of Australia. Their website includes many useful items including:
- online training and workshops
- support materials
- specific resources for iPads in Special Education
- specific resources for iPads for Literacy Support
- comprehensive introductory materials for iPad use (specifically for special needs students)
iEAR is a grassroots community that has formed to review mobile learning devices and educational apps. This group also provides online resources and links for the use of mobile learning devices in the classroom. When looking to purchase apps to support your student, it is important to do your homework and examine the quality of each purchase/download carefully. Read comments, rating and reviews carefully as quality is not guaranteed (especially with free or inexpensive apps)
On the website Learning In Hand, Tony Vincent has created an online resource about mobile learning. It includes an extensive amount of information on how to use mobile devices for educational purposes. Information is updated regularly.
Only the iPad is a website geared towards locating additional resources about iPad use in the classroom. It includes a link to iPad Communities on Google+, a document on the 15 iPad skills every teacher and student should have, iPad introductory guides and much more.
Apps and Autism provides extensive lists of apps and learning tools geared towards ASD students, as well as resources about using the iPads effectively. The site also provides links to success stories and articles surrounding the use of iPads for special needs students.
iPrep provides links to various audio and video literature study guides. These ebooks can be used with an eReader on the iPad.
The iPad User Group Wiki provides a support for the use of iPod and iPad devices in K-12 educational settings. It features research projects and classroom activities, how-to articles, and video examples of successful implementation
Teachers with Apps is a website set up to specifically help sort through the vast numbers of education apps being released daily. Each app that is reviewed on the site is field-tested with students and teachers and are assessed based on their promotion of deeper learning and alignment with learning outcomes.
Scholastic also has numerous contributing teachers who discuss iPads and apps in the classroom. Angela Bunyi from Tennessee is one of these educators. She has suggested numerous ways to use iPads to support literacy instruction.
Assistive Technology AIU (from Pennsylvania) provides a wiki with a wealth of information about using the iPad as AT. The wiki includes recommended apps and articles of interest.
Simple K-12 is a learning community featuring webinars and professional development opportunities on numerous topics (including iPads)
ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education) offers two “iPad in Education” webinars on their website, as well as numerous additional iPad resources, reading lists, useful forms and documents, and a question and answer forum.