Classroom Gadgets Helping Children Learn

To make education more effective, there are new technological gadgets that are being used in classrooms across the country. Over the last decade, there have been great advancements in teaching. Here is a look at a few of the newest tools that are used in schools and how they aid the learning process.

Interactive Whiteboard

An interactive whiteboard, or SMART board, contains a white board, colored markers, an eraser, and back lit projector. It is extremely popular in classroom activity since it allows a teacher to review lessons or make a presentation that is positioned in the best line of sight for all students. It helps students to visualize concepts that are hard to explain on a traditional chalkboard.

Numerous studies have found that using an interactive whiteboard has had a positive effect on education. It has improved students' attitudes towards instruction that is computer driven. This piece of equipment has also allowed special needs children to participate in a regular classroom environment. It has the power to improve language skills and create better participation through higher levels of enthusiasm.

Response Pads

One of the latest breakthroughs in classroom technology is the response pad. A response pad is actually a remote that a student can use to engage in classroom activities. For instance, when a teacher asks a question, a student can use the remote to send an answer. As a means of motivation, a teacher can reward a student for answering questions correctly. It makes learning more fun and encourages a student to listen attentively through class.

From a teacher's perspective, it will provide immediate feedback as to how well the students understand certain key concepts. It also takes the place of manual grading procedures. Tests and quizzes can be given with the use of a response pad and results will be automatically tabulated. This tool is also able to be used by a student in various classes as well.

iPad

Tablet devices have dominated the computer industry for the last few years. Using Apple's iPad in the classroom can enhance learning in various ways. It inspires creativity and hands on learning. A single iPad can take the place of multiple traditional textbooks. It will allow a student to flip through a visually appealing layout that is filled with numerous pictures. It can provide 3D images and a dictionary for any words that are not understood.

An iPad expands the learning process with endless application possibilities. More than 20,000 apps exist to further education including science, math, and reading. Since teachers can coordinate lessons plans on an iPad, a student can stay on top of assignments with ease. This device also allows a student to take notes, track assignments, and study for tests.

MP3 Player/Audio Recordings

Even though these gadgets are not new, teachers are slowly beginning to use them in the classroom. A teacher can play tiny snippets of recordings that deal with current topics. It is also possible to record the class and post it to the web. This will let a student access classroom discussions after being absent. It is also a way to help a student study for a test. Listening to a lecture will help a student fill in missing notes or help to concentrate on topics that were not fully understood in the beginning.

Classroom education is being influenced by the latest technological advancements. New gadgets are being introduced to schools in the hope of enhancing the learning process. It is important to keep on top of the times. The above gadgets are only a few examples of the new things that are changing the education system. In the end, these items will help a student study faster and more effectively. They will also allow a teacher to pique a student's interest like never before.

Author Bio

William Stevens is a writer who creates informative articles in relation to technology. In this article, he describes a few educational gadgets and aims to encourage furthers study with a online masters in education law.

Image credit: Image credit: ShuttrKing|KT on Flickr

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