More iPads on way

Rockingham Lakes Primary School students are set to be at the forefront of technology with a bundle of iPads heading their way.

Deputy principal Todd Clark said the influx would give students more of an opportunity to use the new technology as a learning tool.

Mr Clark said the school received 24 iPads last year for a pilot program, and following to its success 24 more were set to arrive in the coming months.

After watching teachers use the iPads in the classroom in the past year, Mr Clark said they had proven to be a positive way of enhancing teaching programs.

“The early childhood cluster was very excited when the iPads first arrived but now that they have become accustomed to using the technology the novelty is wearing off and they are really starting to use them for learning,” he said.

Mr Clark said the school had also ordered 20 laptops for senior students and four iPads for special needs students.

Year 1 and 2 teacher Kelly Columbus said she used the iPads for lessons in numeracy, literacy, brainstorming and researching.

“I find using the iPads for their reading keeps students really engaged and willing to have a go,” she said.

“The good thing about the iPads is the students can record themselves and listen to themselves straight away and learn what they need to improve on, it gives them instant feedback.

“Numeracy programs used show the process of how the student came to their final answer – it is like we are able to look over their shoulder all the time.”

The Apple products are funded by the Federal Government’s Smarter Schools National Partnership program.