iPads in the classroom: take 1:

I attempted to use iPads in my French  III class on Thurs.  I encountered several problems.

1)  There are very few apps available for an intermediate level French class.  Hopefully, there will be in the future.

2)  There is very little appropriate reading material available for an Upper School intermediate level French class

3)  The material that I did find was not free.

4)  The translation/ dictionary tool "French reader" is not free either.

5)  Half of the students forgot to bring their iPads

6)  My iPad died halfway through and I was unable to charge it and project at the same time.

7)  Could not get adequate volume on the iPad that I borrowed from a student to replace mine.

8)  Learned that you cannot charge iPads from PCs.


On a positive note,

1)  The students were very excited about the "experiment".  (They've never shown enthusiasm for a reading before!)

2)  The iPad has some engaging apps for Preschool/ Elementary age foreign language learners.

3)  The iPad could be great for AP level French readings.

Have come to the following conclusions:

1)  Can NOT depend on students to bring in their own iPads

2)  Need to be able to log in to iPads using a GFS account. 

3)  Need to have all reading apps and readings downloaded on all iPads before class starts.

4)  Not sure the iPad has much to offer the intermediate level language student but am eager to try again after Spring Break.