4.17.2010

Linking the iPad With Education

Today's technology is being used more and more in the classroom and to aid students in learning. Computer technology, various websites, Wii's and whiteboards are among some of the more common we hear about. Now, a recent article on eschoolsnews.com states that applications for Apple's new iPad include programs to help with science, math, languages, and research. With more than 150,000 application downloads at costs of $2 to more than $15 the iPad is sure to have something for students of all ages.

The educational applications include ones that can help teach periodic table learning in a different form than the one we are used to, as well as language learning apps. The recently released app from Hello-Hello.com offers access to the site’s entire Spanish course and allows access to social networking sites where students can chat with native speakers of the language they are studying. Some company's programs are available for free such as“USA Factbook" which describes the 50 and “States & Capitals" designed for students prepping for a geography quiz or exam.

Some children just learn better through technology. As the world of technology and education continue to integrate, these tools are good to keep in mind as additional supports for kids who have trouble learning the traditional way.






4.05.2010

Kate Winslet narrates "A Mother's Courage: Talking Back to Autism"

April 2nd was Autism Awareness Day and was also the day when HBO premiered a film called "A Mother's Courage: Talking Back To Autism" which looks at Autism through a mother's eyes.

The movie which is narrated by actress Kate Winslet is about a mother from Iceland who does what she can to find out more about Autism and documents follows her efforts to find ways to help her severely Autistic son Keli as well as improve his life. The documentary follows Margret as she travels to places in Europe and ends up in America to be closer to a treatment center in Texas which will prove helpful for Keli.

The documentary not only shares Margret's story but stories of families along the way and gives watchers a glimpse of the daily struggles and frustrations families with children who have Autism face.

HBO will also air the show this Wednesday 4/7, Thursday 4/8 and Saturday 4/10. Since approximately 1 in 110 persons have Autism, the chances of you knowing someone who is affected in some way by this disorder is growing, so perhaps checking out this documentary which runs for a little more than an hour and a half or at least watching the trailer may be a good way to spend some time.