I remember first seeing the iPad on the Apple website in fascination with the product. I wanted to get my hands on one as soon as possible. I even had the intention on buying one. But after a few days I really didn't find myself needing at the moment. I already own an iMac, did I really need another thing just to surf the web?
When I first used the device in class on Tuesday I was hit with the some sense of awe when I first saw it on the Apple website. It was unbelievably ease to use, you didn't even need an instruction manual. I looked mainly at the math apps on the iPad and was amazed. There were apps to calculate calculus problems, graphing cosines and even the fractals.
I definitely can imagine a future where all students have devices similar to this, uploading homework, reading from a school book, watching video, communicating with each other and the teachers, and the possibilities keep on going.
The apps impressed me because they have very different designs gearing toward the audience who would use the app. Certain math games were very playful and colorful for younger students, but the higher level math apps were very professional in appearance.
I also enjoyed the piano app. Although I don't think it's the new way to teach instruments, it is a lot of fun. Hopefully I'll get my hand on it in the future.
-MM
