Global Digital Citizenship: A Jigsaw Activity (Reflection)

1. In what learning environments would the technology resource I presented be appropriate?
 I chose to present the iPad along with an educational mathematics app. After doing the research during our jigsaw activity, I believe the iPad is a great resource in many learning environments. More specifically, I believe an iPad is a useful resource to have in a classroom for various activities. For example, the iPads can be used for a centers option when the teacher is working closely with small groups. A class set can also extremely useful when children are working on research projects.  Also, this technology can be used in many different ways due to all of the educational apps being created. Furthermore, iPads have been created to address different students needs. This will help most (if not all) students be able to take part in all activities in the classroom. Lastly, the iPad comes with various parental/teacher controls to go along with it's different apps. For example, in order to purchase anything on the app store or iTunes, the students will need a username and password. This will keep students from purchasing any unwanted apps, and will force them to run it by the teacher beforehand.

2. In what learning environments would the technology resource I presented NOT be appropriate?
 Although the iPad is a great resource in the classroom, there are a few different areas where it should not be used. In my opinion, this technology would not be a very good way for students to take their notes due to the device not having a USB port. Because of this, students would not be able to save and take their notes home for easy access. Also, this resource may not be appropriate for "free time" use. When students are using the iPads, they should always be closely observed by the teacher. They should also always have direct and clear instructions on what they are to be doing.

3. How might it be modified to be appropriate?
The iPad may be modified to be appropriate during these times by creating one easily compatible with a USB port. This would make it much easier for students to take, save, and access their notes from in class. It may also make it easier for teachers to collect the students digital notes and journals.