Technology Tuesday

Welcome to “Technology Tuesday.” Imagine!’s SmartHomes team has moved fully into the second phase of our project, where we are using the SmartHomes technology in unique ways, taking it into other settings, and sharing it with clients beyond just those living in the homes. We want to share those stories with you. We hope these stories will be short and easy to read insights into how technology is changing the lives of everyone served by Imagine!, not just those living in the SmartHomes.

Imagine!’s CORE/Labor Source has started offering a class for clients that uses iPads to study reading, writing, and math. This class has a ratio of one teacher to five students. Using traditional methods, this could be problematic. The students vary greatly in their skill levels, and without the iPads, instruction would be very slow. With the iPads, however, students are able to self-direct their learning and go at their own pace without needing constant assistance from the instructor.

Additionally, in a traditional setting with a similar teacher to student ratio, individuals in the class may have been more likely to engage in inappropriate or attention seeking behaviors while waiting for individualized instruction, making it more difficult for the entire class to progress. The iPad lessons are very effective at keeping students constantly engaged, lowering the frequency of disruptive behavior.

Just as important, the iPad lessons are fun, making the experience more rewarding for everyone involved.