Locate, review, and discuss in the OnCourse Forum how the following might be used to support STEM subjects: 1. 5 iPad or Android apps 2. 3 whiteboard apps 3. 3 hardware add-ons for iPhones/iTouch/iPads, Android devices, and/or laptops.
Ipad Apps
- Bump for iPhone / can be used on iPads (free) – this is one of my favorite apps in the elementary classroom and widely overlooked for its use. Bump can also be installed on iPads and iPods (as well as Android devices). When students take pictures or videos, work on documents or applications where documentation is created on the iPad/iPod, instead of plugging in the device to take those items off of the device to be used within a project on the computer (turn in, etc.), we use BUMP to transfer all of the items to one device. The teacher or student leader can then plug in that one device to the computer and transfer needed items or the teacher can transfer items to his/her device if needed. This is a great way to quickly transfer items from one device to another. Even personal devices can be used because once the item is transferred, the connection is lost and no hacking, security, or risks take place.
- Screenchomp for iPad (free) – Similar to screenr or Screencast-O-Matic, ScreenChomp allows you to record, sketch, and share a replay-able video that tells your story clearly.
- Songify ($2.99) – students speak into the app (math facts, science vocabulary terms, technology digital citizenship terms, poems, stories, sentences, etc.) then the app turns the info into a song for playback. Great way for the students to remember information through song.
- Science 360 (free) – NSF has provided engaging images and videos on a wide range of topics. Videos and images can easily be saved and used for projects as referenced in the app.
- ScienceHouse (free) – Hands-on science lessons that are great for inexpensive experiments and hands-on learning.
- Virtual Manipulatives (free) – a guided, interactive app for fraction creations. Fraction bars, pie charts, and a whiteboard allow the students to manipulate fractions on the iPad.
- StopAnimator (free) – great for time-lapse video creations within Science. Easy to use, simple design allows this app to be used at all levels.
- QuickOffice / SmartOffice / DocsToGo (prices vary from $4.99-15.99) – these apps allow Microsoft Office files to be edited on the iPad.
- StoryWheel / StoryRobe ($2.99 / $0.99) – Digital storytelling creation apps that can be used to provide movies on any STEM topic.
- FreeAppTracker (free) – Allows you to track, share, or purchase an app directly through the app tracker. I have purchased many free apps when I am tracking a specific app and the price either drops or goes free for a short time.
- SplashTop ($4.99) – This app allows me to control my desktop directly from my iPad/Phone just like you would an Activ or SmartSlate. (A lot cheaper than a slate.) We have many teachers that use this in our district and they love the fact that they can connect to the desktop quickly to show the class a concept while they are at a learning center, or they can interrupt a learning center on the whiteboard to help reteach a concept. The best part is the mobility and option to be “away” from the board and move about the room while still being in control of the interactive whiteboard.
- iTap RDP ($11.99) – This app, if setup on the back end by your Network guru, will allow you to access your network files (eLocker) and programs directly from your iPad. A little setup, but once the network part is setup, the app is purchased, directions are found on our Technology website - http://ww2.bullittschools.org/technology/?page_id=825
- Educreations (free) – This is very similar to Screencast-O-Matic on the computer but I can draw on the iPad and record my narration. The same thing can be done on an ActivBoard or Smart Board, but this affords the ability to post to a social networking site or use as a video on my website. I love this app for the kids more than the teachers because they can SHOW you their learning through action rather than you, as the teacher, only ever seeing the final results in some cases.
- iPad Stylus Pen ($5-$30) – allows more precision touch yet the ability to use a pen tip to draw or write on the iPad screen
- Optoma PK301+ Pico Pocket Projector ($250-$350 / can be found cheaper) – we love this projector because when we are presenting to an audience and need to show something on an iPad while also showing something on the main projector. When the computer is not in use, we use the iPad under a document camera or a VGA dongle, but when both are needed, we use this mini-projector. http://www.focusedtechnology.com/optoma-pk301--projector.html?utm_source=googlepepla&utm_medium=adwords&id=19154206696&utm_content=pla&gclid=CIr53LjFzrcCFZPm7AodhHcAUQ
- iPad VGA Dongle ($25-$30) – Use the iPad Dock Connector to VGA Adapter to connect an iPad to your television, projector, or VGA display. Then see your videos and slideshows on the big screen. The iPad Dock Connector to VGA Adapter connects to your iPad or iPad Dock via the dock connector and to your projector or display using the VGA adapter. This also allows students to connect their device to the projector/computer to use for their own presentation.
- Apple TV ($99) – The normal streaming of Apple TV is great, but we love the ability to show the iPad directly through the projector without connecting and disconnecting cables. Plus, anyone that has the passcode to the Apple TV can take over so it can easily be used for visiting presenters or students with iPods, iPads that wish to add to a presentation or create on their own device.