Handheld Devices

Recent advances in handheld devices have created exciting new ways to use technology in the library and the classroom.  Many factors must be considered when choosing how to spend a technology budget of $10,000 such as price, versatility, and ease of use.  

After researching and considering many different handheld devices, the Apple iPod Touch seems to be the most versatile of all the handheld devices.  The iPod Touch is more cost effective than the iPad and can do almost everything the iPad can do.  The lower cost will allow a greater number of devices to be purchased so that more students will be able to use the new technology.  The 32 GB iPod Touch costs $299, and an entire class set of 30 could be purchased with $10,000.  

The possibilities of how to use the iPod Touch in the classroom are endless.  It can be used to access the internet, as an ebook reader, and there are numerous educational applications available.  The iTouch can also be used to play audio books.  This is a great tool for struggling readers and can help with reading fluency.  

Teachers can create a Google Doc, and the students could use the iTouch to respond to surveys or discussion questions.  Students could post their responses to questions and respond to what other students post as well.  Many students will be more open in this type of discussion than they would in a traditional discussion.  This also allows each student a chance to respond while there would not be time for each student to respond during an oral discussion.