iPad or iPod
As a Formative Assessment tool
By
Michele Thompson OTR/L M.Ed.
iPad/iPod
Runs using the Apple mobile operating system iOS
and a variety of purchased applications
Hand held device
Available to multiple markets
Subjective Premises
Hand held devices demonstrate improvement in
accessing curriculum
Hand held devices improve communication between
students, teachers, and peers.
Hand held devices improve student independence in
community.
iPad/iPod Research
In its infancy, because of the relative new technology.
Some case studies available and positive subjective
articles.
Specific applications on the iPad/iPod have basis in
research such as the Accelerated Reader application
based on the widely used AR programs in schools
Following are a few examples of iPod/iPad
applications in the educational setting
Reading App
Accelerated Reader is a well researched reading instruction
program. An iPad or iPod is only the tool that provides access
for students to take an assessment that has traditionally been
available in a computer lab. Research article can be accessed
from the following site: http://www.renlearn.com/ar/research.aspx
Math App
Rocket Math is a system of timed formative assessments on
numeracy concepts for addition, subtraction, multiplication and
division. Typically students take a timed quiz and progress through
the modules as they complete each assessment in the allotted time. A
research study is available at the following URL:
http://www.rocketmath.net/p/results.html
Special Education Apps
Used to allow students to access the assessments. A literatu review
Is available at: http://proloquo2go.edustudygroup.com/lit-review/
Behavior Tracking
iPod and iPad can be used by instructors to track time
intervals, video model, schedule, or self assess.
Used as a self assessment tool in the classroom to
track behavior. For example,
“findings of this study indicate that using an iPod
Touch to deliver video-based instruction within the
classroom setting is not only effective, but might also
be an easier and more practical means of delivery than
the less portable methods used previously.” (Blood et.
al., 2011, p.1)
References
Accelerated Reader Research – multiple studies
http://www.renlearn.com/ar/research.aspx
Blood, E., Johnson, J., Ridenour, L., Simmons, K., & Crouch, S.. (2011). Using an iPod
Touch to Teach Social and Self-Management Skills to an Elementary Student with
Emotional/Behavioral Disorders. Education & Treatment of Children, 34(3), 299321. Retrieved September 20, 2011, from ProQuest Psychology Journals. (Document
ID: 2413737761).
Prologue2go - Literature review –multiple studies
http://proloquo2go.edustudygroup.com/lit-review/
Smith, C. R., Marchand-Martella, N. E., & Martella, R. C. (2011). Assessing the Effects of
the Rocket Math Program with a Primary Elementary School Student At Risk for
School Failure: A Case Study. Education and Treatment of Children, 34(2), 247-258.
Retrieved on September 19, 2011 from http://www.rocketmath.net/p/results.html