iPad-Is this the future Tool of Education?

I'm Typing this post on the iPad, as the signature suggests. I've been using an iPhone since the first generation came out. The interface of the iPhone has been addictive and natural to me.

The screen always seemed a little small.

Now, I have my hands on the iPad. When it was first announced, I thought I was looking at a big iPod Touch. Then, the reviews started pouring in on release day. I decided I had to get my hands on it.

I have been using it for a little under a week now and have been enjoying every minute of it. Many people wonder what space this device fits into in the world of computing. I feel it fits into the lives of people who desire the best experience in the consumption of media on the planet.

Yes, it isn't a full-fledged computer. It doesn't multitask with third party apps, (Yet!). However, the simplicity of the device and the speed and grace of the interface make it the device I reach for to hop online, read e-mail, and enjoy my multimedia collection.

I have taken it to school the past two days. I've taken attendance on it. I've taken notes on student assignments on it. However, the big deal is, I've shown it to the kids. They are amazed and thrilled when they see this device. They also, and more importantly, instantly know how to use it. I see the education potential of this device to be limitless.

Imagine, all the content necessary in the classroom such as textbooks, videos, calculators, drawing tools, word processors, presentation tools, and other educational applications on one 1.5 lb. device that has an all day battery life. Think of the simplicity of managing one school tool instead of many different and often incompatible systems. Think of a walled application source where any applications used in the school environment are vetted and tested by one of the largest and most successful technology companies in the world before they are ever available for use.

I believe the iPad and other similar future devices are the mobile, technology rich classroom of the future. Schools and school districts only need to have the courage to reach out, take a chance, and embrace it.

Have a great Friday.

CKH


-- Post From My iPad

Location:Lubbock, TX

Mama making cookies

Mama's making cookies! Being all domestic.


-- Post From My iPhone

Fried Chicken

My in-laws are in from Pennsylvania. I made fried chicken last night. Lots & lots of fried chicken. Grandaddy Son's recipe


-- Post From My iPhone

Moving to a New Place

We are still in the maddening process of moving into a new rent house. There is stuff everywhere. I am cutting flooring and putting it down. It will look nice and neat. Someday. Not today.





These pics were taken last week. A tiger lily in our front yard and a little lady flirting with Aslan. How hospitable of her. I've never been to home improvement stores this much. Ever. Back to work. Have a great week.

-- come to Lubbock. We have wind!

Yay. The best 2 months begin!

School's out for summer! We graduated the class of 2009 last night. Now I have all this free time!

To tell the truth, I don't really like summer break. You begin to feel disconnected. I have the same feelings about it as holidays. I'd rather be working. In the summer, I'm home and often trying to find things to do.

Also, graduation is depressing. I have to say goodbye to students I have enjoyed watching and working with for years, and now I will only see them occasionally, if at all. It's like going to a funeral. Oh well, that's the only constant in life. Change. Congratulations class of '09. Now you are not seniors anymore. You're freshmen. Ain't life grand?




-- come to Lubbock. We have wind!

Never Argue with a Woman

My wife sent me this message. I think it's her in a boat. It was too funny, and I had to post it. Enjoy.

Never Argue with a Woman



One morning, the husband returns the boat to their lakeside

cottage after several hours of fishing and decides to take a nap.



Although not familiar with the lake, the wife decides to take the boat out. =20


She motors out a short distance, anchors, puts her feet up,

and begins to read her book.

The peace and solitude are magnificent.

Along comes a Fish and Game Warden in his boat.


He pulls up alongside the woman and says, 'Good
morning, Ma'am. What are you doing?'



'Reading a book,' she replies, (thinking, 'Isn't that obvious?')


'You're in a Restricted Fishing Area,' he informs her.

'I'm sorry, officer, but I'm not fishing. I'm reading.'


'Yes, but I see you have all the equipment.
For all I know you could start at any moment.
I'll have to take you in and write you up.'



'If you do that, I'll have to charge you with

sexual assault,' says the woman.



'But I haven't even touched you,' says the Game Warden.



'That's true, but you have all the equipment.
For all I know you could start at any moment.'





'Have a nice day ma'am,' and he left.


MORAL:
Never argue with a woman who reads.


It's likely she can also think.

Matt's Interview

Matt's interview with Evan Onstot went well. I think he had fun, and it appeared that Evan had fun as well.

It will air on KLBK news in the next few weeks. I look forward to seeing how it comes out.

Wow. It's hot today.


-- come to Lubbock. We have wind!