Tavernspite CP School already recognises that the use of mobile technology such as iPads plays a key role in re-sculpting educational practices and experiences by moving from the 'sage on the stage' model of learning to a new model in which the pupils become resourceful and dynamic learners.
The school has been using iPads to enhance children's learning for some time, but recently has become one of the first schools in Pembrokeshire to install an exciting product from Apple called Apple TV which connects to the class projector and transfers content over the wireless network between other Apple devices.
Apple TV's mirroring feature allows the teacher to 'mirror' their screen with the board so that the pupils can see what is being shown on the master iPad's screen, allowing presentations to be done remotely and wirelessly. Apple TV also enables the teacher to take an instant picture or footage of a pupil's work so that it can be shared with others in the classroom.
Additionally, the Apple TV set-up allows pupils to share content with the class from their own seat! Imagine a child has used a new app as part of a class session and has experimented to intuitively discover new features or strategies that others could learn from. In this scenario, the pupil is now a potential educator: equipped with new knowledge and skills. Via the Airplay feature the pupil can then lead a class demonstration from their seat to share skills and learning with his/her peers. This flipped classroom dynamic is a very powerful learning tool and will lead to far more advancements in learning in comparison to a rigid chalk and talk model.
Pupils are encouraged to pursue their interests, advance their knowledge, and hone their skills outside of school by using familiar platforms and apps as vehicles for learning.
The possibilities and applications of such technologies are continually emerging as web based and software advancements evolve.
"We are in an era of exciting change in education and at Tavernspite CP School we are keen to embrace this change and reach out to technological advancements to raise our standards of teaching and learning within this rapidly evolving world," said Adam Lopez, ICT co-ordinator and e-learning manager at the school.