As we think further about iPad use in the classroom, we must investigate proper applications for this hardware that has the capacity to totally transform education for our students. I found three great articles in Technology and Learning about iPad use in the classroom.Tthe iPad has created a new "niche" that supersedes that of the laptop or netbook because of the power of the device and the plethora of applications being developed daily that support education.

I urge you to read at least one of the three short articles below and post your reactions. 

Read Autumn Kelley's article about iPad use in reading and math
http://techlearning.com/article/37704

Eric Lawson has written an article about iPad use for students with special needs.  His article is found here
http://www.techlearning.com/article/37742

Viki Windmand, also an advocate for students with special needs, shares her favorite iPad apps for this population as well:
http://www.techlearning.com/Blogs/37722

This FREE program allows your iPad to become your bedside clock, alarm clock, and weather station!  This cool program will automatically configure the time, date, and weather from your current location. You can set alarms- an alarm clock for sleeping that can run only if the program is left open at night (use your stand, dim the screen, and you no longer need an alarm clock!) OR you can set alarms to work when Nightstand Central is running in the background. Another cool feature is that you can instantly dim the screen for nighttime by sliding your finger up and down (brighter and dimmer).



Other features are available (such as adding music from iTunes as your alarm) if you purchase the full version for only $2.99. You can have music fade in for a scheduled amount of time to wake you slowly.  Plug your iPad charger in next to your bed, set your iPad on your nightstand, and awake with your favorite song!!  Great for traveling. This app is also available for the iPod touch AND iPhone.  Enjoy!!

So you thought that clicking sound when typing on the keyboard was kind of cool when you first got your iPad, but now it's just plain annoying.  It is easy to disable it without having to constantly turn your volume up and down.

First, go to the "settings" icon on your iPad.

Now that you have used your iPad for over a month, I am sure that you are enjoying learning new things about it.  Although the battery life can last up to 10 hours, at times you might forget a charger cord or need to preserve battery life.  To keep your iPad from being an energy hog, note the power-saving ideas below:

• In the “settings” folder there is an option to turn down the screen brightness. Keeping it down a little won’t ruin your experience and will help prolong life.
• Turn off 3G and WiFi services when they aren’t needed. You’ll only need them when connecting to networks or downloading/browsing data, so turn them off when you can.
• Make sure apps aren’t running in the background when they don’t have to. Turning apps off from the multitasking tray can save you some juice.
• Run the battery out every few weeks. Giving the iPad a full charge will ensure it remains in good condition.

Turn the screen off. When you aren’t using your iPad, then turn the screen off and don’t waste any unnecessary power.

Other energy-saving tips can be found here:  http://www.technobuzz.net/apple-ipad-battery-saving-tips/

Evernote is a really cool iPad app that interfaces with your computer, your iPad, AND your smartphone.  Evernote allows you to take notes that are searchable, and your notes, snaps, etc. are stored in the "cloud" for access anywhere. You must create an account to store your data, then you will be able to store and access your files. Try the "web clipper"- it is an awesome way to "clip" info from the web for safekeeping!

For a change, I am posting a fun iPad app that may be addicting.  This one is for fun and interaction with friends and strangers- and you know that research says that word and memory games help with mental sharpness as you get older!  Most posts will be work-related; however, this one is fun and you can pick it up for a few minutes anytime!

Words with Friends is an interactive Scrabble-like game that you play virtually with others. You can search for random opponents, or you can play with someone you know by posting their "Words with Friends" name.  The app is free (with ads, $2.99 if you don't want to see ads between turns) and is available for the iPad, iPhone, iPod touch and Android platforms.