This week my kindergarten class learned how to use ipad apps from my classroom teacher. It was such a fantastic process to watch. Through our STEM technology class students already had the beginning skill knowledge of how to turn on the ipad, and use swiping motions to turn on the actual device. Having those basic steps of familiarity in operating, respect to the care of the device, and not feeling overwhelmed by the new.
Today our students were introduced to the app, BookCreator. BookCreator is not a free app, the iTunes store lists the app for 4.99, although you could sync the app on multiple devices if your school ipads were under the same administrator. BookCreator could be used for numerous possibilities. It is similar to the style of MSpaint in that you can use pen tools, text, and other shape options to create media, as well as adding multiple pages. The app also allows you to add in pictures, media, and recorded sound.
My own classroom will be using this for interactive math journals, letter books, and other content journals. Students will be able to record their own thoughts, and visually see their own progression over time. This helps with quick informal or formal assessments for teachers, as well. Using the ipad for these kinds of activities helps with motor skills, and gives boundless space for their books. Given the kind of media this app allows, students are able to create content that is unique to their individual self, while still learning and using classroom concepts. I personally look forward to see how these skills and usage continues to develop over the year.
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