Podcast Reflection #12: Classroom Dos and Don'ts

            For my final podcast reflection I choose to listen to Tony Vincent’s Learning in Hand.  I listened to podcast #20: Classroom Dos and Don’ts.  This podcast talked about all of the dos and don’ts when it comes to using iPods in the classroom.  There were many that Tony mentioned, but I am just going to highlight a few of the ones that I found extra important. 

            The first Do that Tony mentioned is to sync iPods to one computer.  Teachers should add everything that they want to sync to their iPods to one computer.  If you start syncing iPods to more than one computer you will start to get messages that request you to delete all material form the iPod.  Also when it comes to syncing the iPods, Tony says to make a playlist on the syncing computer.  This way you only sync the apps, audio, and video that you want to transfer to the iPods.  Tony says that it is also a good idea to delete information on the syncing computer that you aren’t currently using.  Teachers can drag and drop that information into another folder on their computer until they need it again.  This way iPods will not get bogged down with unneeded information. 

Another great tip is to name all iPods.  Teachers can engrave a number on the back, use a sticky label, or used color-coded cases so students can recognize their iPod easily.  Tony says that classrooms should purchase a charger cart, case, or tray to charge and store iPods when not in use.  This is of course if you have the money.  If not, purchase power USB hubs, and some other container to lockup iPods so they do not get stolen.  

Three final tips that Toney suggests for using iPods in the classroom are: have procedures for handing out and picking up iPods; purchase inexpensive ear buds for each student; have consequences for misuse of iPods.  Teachers should come up with procedures that everyone is aware of so the class does not waste valuable learning time passing out or picking up iPods.  Teachers should also have consequences that are posted for misuse.  Tony suggests creating an iPod contract that is sent home with students at the beginning of the year.  This contract would be read and signed by parents and the child.

            Finally, Tony mentioned some Don’ts for using iPods in the classroom.  He said not to give students the iTunes account password.  If they have the password, they can download apps that may not be appropriate for school.  Then when the iPods are synced that app could be spread to all of the iPods.  A small problem could turn into a very big problem in no time at all.  Tony also said that teachers should not feel like they need to sync their iPods everyday.  IPods should only be synced when new information needs to be put on them.  This could be weekly or even monthly.  Tony warned to not just use free apps.  You tend to get what you pay for.  Although some free apps are very good, teachers can download really good apps for fewer than five dollars.  An app that is downloaded once can be synced to all iPods for free!  Finally, Tony reminded teachers to keep up with their professional development.  There is always something new to learn in the world of technology.