I am always in the midst of the debate about netbooks vs. iPods for classroom learning. Today I will clarify some beliefs and observations I hold about using these tools in the classroom.
Faster Deployment
I love our school Macbooks. When we brought them in last year, I was charged with setting the policy and testing their use in the classroom. For a tool in class they are great. Once you have to move them around, get them out of backpacks, and keep them charged, they are in another category is usefulness. This can be contrasted with the iPods that can last a full-day of use in school (I know this from my own classroom) and can gain a substantial charge in 15 minutes. In addition to useful time, students pull iPods out of their pockets at a moment’s notice. They enjoy having them at the ready and usually already have them on and connected to their ears at the beginning of class. 
Ubiquitous
In class use aside, students use their iPods day and night. So it only makes sense that if we teach them to use them as learning tools, they will carry the learning outside the classroom. Again, this is something I have seen from experience. (See my previous post )
One of the questions I was asked most when I was researching iPods in the classroom before submitting my proposal was ‘How will you keep the kids on task?’ I love this question because iPods are far more specific use devices than a netbook or PC. I can load the iPod with just the apps that students need for the tasks they are to complete. Also, due to the nature of the device, it takes time to switch apps. If I am walking around the classroom I can see off-task behaviour before a student can hide it. I speak like this actually happens a great deal. It doesn’t. Once students know how we use the iPods for educational purposes, the off task behaviour is nearly non-existent.
Plurality of the Machine for Students
This is my favourite reason to choose the iPod over a netbook or laptop, students have their own uses for the device. (music/media player, web browser, etc.) Why does this matter? Well, if I want to have an impact on my students outside of the classroom and create relevant learning experiences for them, why tie that to a device that they will not sit down with on the bus, with their friends, in front of the TV, etc. If I can help a student get into school and not have to worry about sitting down ‘out of context’ to complete an assignment, why would I choose any other tool.
I’m sure some of this will spark some comments and interest. I want to hear your perspectives, particularly if you think I’m missing something. Let me know!
Thanks for reading, and have a great day!
