This course will allow participants to learn the basics of how to use a tablet PC (iPads only in this instance) and explore its use in active learning methodologies, in the context of literacy and numeracy.  Participants will also explore how the tablet PC can be used as a teaching and learning tool.

Course Objectives:

The course will enable participants to:

• Explore the use of tablet PCs to enhance teaching, learning and assessment in the classroom
• Create teaching and learning resources using tablet PCs to support literacy and numeracy development in the classroom
• Explore applications (apps) to enhance teaching, learning and assessment in literacy and numeracy.

Course Content:

Module 1: Getting to know the tablet (iPad) and some apps

This module provides an introduction to using a tablet for novice users, covering navigation and in-built tools such as multi-gesture controls and the integrated camera. Participants learn how to access and use both pre-loaded and new apps. As well as learning about their practical uses, the apps are critically analysed in the context of active learning methodologies.

Module 2: Generating content for literacy and numeracy

This module covers how to create your own teaching resources for literacy and numeracy. It includes maths trails and ways to use tablets/apps for open-ended investigation (problem solving).

Module 3: Literacy apps and bringing our stories to life

This module focuses on apps that can be used to support literacy in the context of key topics to include reading, writing, oral language, vocabulary and spelling. There is a particular focus on the multimedia presentation of stories in this module, such as comics; animations, presentations and short movies.

Prerequisites

Participants should have some experience of carrying out basic ICT tasks (opening, editing, saving, closing files). All participants must have their own/school activated tablet (iPad) for the duration of this course, an individual/school iTunes account and an individual email address.