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Young children expect grownups to have all the answers. The more we attention we focus on their questions, the more they will see themselves as agents of knowledge. That is why we do not teach with textbooks anymore. Research seems like a very advanced process, but iPads come with the perfect tools which young children use rather intuitively: built-ins like cameras, microphones, drawing tablets, QR code readers, photo and voice-activated, safe searches. Because students are investigating answers to their own questions, they are more motivated to read and write about the content they find. These experiences will take the literacy skills to the next level. Besides, the world is changing so rapidly, that learning how to learn is becoming just as important as the knowledge itself. If we believe that children are our future, then we certainly need to teach them well, because they will be responsible for us when we can no longer take care of ourselves. Students will need to develop harmonious synergies to share these highly prized devices in the classroom. This will require a different set of mental and communication skills. Prosocial skills like empathy, listening, patience and turn-taking will be learned though explicit instruction, guidance and practice. Students who can cooperate better will naturally get rewarded more by their peers. Having access to a few iPads will be a powerful catalyst that will enrich my students’ lives and all of our futures.
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