Fifty Hawaii teachers from nine Catholic schools are learning to better use Apple iPad technology in their classrooms thanks to an Augustine Educational Foundation grant initiated by a Sacred Hearts Academy teacher.
The grant made possible four training programs, called “iTeach: Empowering Catholic School Educators in iPad Technology,” at no cost to local educators, Feb. 13, 20, 27 and March 20.
Technology teacher Christina Smith is leading the training at the Academy. She shows teachers different ways to use the iPad to help students better communicate, collaborate and create new content. The workshops cover the saving of student work online, creating podcasts, videoconferencing, blogging, creating websites and using free resources such as Google Apps for Education.
Smith manages a federal grant that provides STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) after-school enrichment activities for Waipahu schools.
Sacred Hearts Academy technology media specialist Laurel Taylor initiated the Augustine grant application.
“Handhelds devices including iPads and iTouch are increasingly finding their way into 21st century classrooms,” she said. “The iPad is quickly emerging as the tool with the greatest levels of flexibility, portability, engagement, and intriguing productivity applications.”
Taylor said she is excited by the possibilities emerging with integration of Web 2.0 tools, including slideshows, podcast, blogs, photo galleries, videos and eBooks.
Sacred Hearts Academy head of school Betty White said, “Most schools have deployed iPads during the past two years, and there continues to be a strong need for professional training.”
The Augustine Educational Foundation gives tuition assistance to Hawaii Catholic school students with financial needs. It also provides grants to improve teacher and curriculum development.