Emerging+Hardware+I+like.

The emerging hardware that can make a difference in my classroom is the use of iPods. Accourding to Mike Blaisdell in the March 2006 editions of the //T.H.E. Journal//, "The iPod is a part of the teaching arsenal that needs to be in every classroom, right along with the computer itself." The important uses of an iPod are:

1. __Playback__ - Students can not only listen to audio of music, podcasts, recordings of lessons, speeches, books, etc. but also video recordings such as slide shows that are even combined with audio (maybe even recorded from the iPod itself.)

2. __Audio Content Capturing__ - There are several accessories that can by added to iPods. One of the most beneficial is the use of a recorder. Students can capture audio that can be uploaded to the internet, used to make presentations, incorporated into slide shows, record lectures and lessons, etc. This could be a great tool for teachers to record lessons and then students could review them on their iPod. This would be especially useful for absent students.

3. __Related Software Capabilities__ - Students can create works such as podcasts, video clips, photos, audio tracks which can then be played back on the iPod. Not only can they listen/watch others works, they can listen to their own.

iPods can be useful for the tactile learner to help them stay focused.

iPods are a bit pricey with one unit costing between $269-$369 with an educational discount. Many students have their own iPods, but others do not. Lower income schools would be at a distinct disadvantage as the school would have to provide the iPods. (We can't even have students buy books at my school.) However, with strong arguments such as the above, a school board could be persuaded.

__I Agree__ I love your ideas about the beneficial uses of iPods in classrooms. I could use them for much of the same things in my 4th grade class! I especially loved Toy's idea of giving them to students who need tests read aloud to them according to their IEP. The students wouldn't stick out as needing special help, but as getting to use cool technology. This could also free up the teacher to move about the classroom during tests. -Karla