Part D - Findings and Implications

• Formative: Did the project get implemented as planned?

No and yes. I thought I could do more with the iPad. I feel like I have so much more to learn. So yes, I did come up with some great illustrations that lead to greater depth for the students but I want more. I wish I could have used the quizzes available through different apps but that would mean every students would have to have an iPad. I am looking into incorporating some of the quizzes into PollEverywhere.

• Summative: Evidence of success in addressing the problem of practice

My chemistry students were having a hard time seeing the different chemical bonds. The iPad has great graphics with many different colors to explain ionic, covalent and metallic bonding. I was lucky (or unlucky) many of my students were absent so I was able to gather the group around the iPad and explain the bonds. I don't know if its the HD graphics or what but they just seem to like the iPad visuals better and great discussions evolved. I am not giving the test until Tuesday due to scheduling conflicts but am anxious to see the results.

• How would you approach another project of this type differently given what you’ve learned here?

Preparation, preparation, preparation! I really would like to be able to put these graphics on the overhead projector. I enjoy being in front of the class, reading their faces as they learn the subject. I do know until we get an apple compatible TV that I will lose some of the HD quality. I will keep searching for different graphics that illustrate a different angle. I showed the Punnett Square graphics to my biology students. Even though the students had done four practice sheets, it was the graphic that brought it together. I don't know why but if one more illustration cements it in their brain, it is worth it.

• What are the lessons learned that others might benefit from knowing about?

The iPad isn't the answer for everything. It is still in its infancy, just like other computer programs. I would explain that it is another tool. I think if they were in students hands, they could save time and paper with some of the quizzes that are available to email to teachers. Laptop computers can do some of the same things but the iPads ease of use is phenomenal. It really takes a great amount of time to learn everything about the iPad. I read somewhere, it usually takes three months. One of my fellow teachers was amazed that I had already used it in the classroom but thought there were some great science apps. It just takes preparation to use them efficiently.

• In what ways will you endeavor to do the same project again, and what will you change or not do?

I diefinitely will use the graphics that I have found. I wish I had the iPad earlier for many of my classes. As I kept searching, I find more and more. I add more apps and write them down in my planner. It is very important to keep track of where and what apps are available. I will use them expecially when the students review for the semester exams.