iPod in the classroom

This presentation, by Kern Kelley, is particularly interesting because it addresses the use of the ipod Touch in the classroom. Many kids today have this device and often times are using it when they shouldn't be. Why not take advantage of their desire to use the technology?

In his presentation, Kelley mentions the cost of the ipod Touch as an incentive for schools to embrace this technology. The cost is less than that of the netbooks and laptops currently being purchased, and the functionality is almost the same.

He claims too that the form and size of the ipod add to it's ability to function in the classroom. Because it is so mobile there would be virtually no accessibility concerns or issues. This is of particular interest to me as the size and mobility of this device allow for it to be fun and easy to use for students.

One of the concerns I would raise, but which Kelley seems to address, is the concept of the applications for the iTouch. Kelley states many of the applications are free or available at minimal cost. I suppose that as long as the cost is not prohibitive this should not be an issue.

Will the schools be monitoring use of the iTouch? I'm guessing yes, but this cannot be done 100% of the time. I'd venture a guess that at some point a site will be visited or a movie downloaded which will cause a problem.

Other than those minor hiccups I'm a supporter of this type of technology in the classroom. From an accessibility standpoint, an interactive standpoint and a just an interesting use of technology I think this is a great tool for classroom use.