When I first started using the iPad with my students 5 years ago there was not the array of solutions we now have for assessing the work. The first few weeks of using iPads I was writing post-it-notes on the iPads to provide feedback. Schools just starting their iPad deployments certainly have the benefit of hindsight and also have many options for assessing iPad work. However, schools using too many tools can confuse both staff and students of where to put work and resources. Here's what we use:
For EYFS, digital profiling can certainly save teachers lots of time. It also allows teachers to quickly capture the children's learning and match with EYFS. iPad apps such as Tapestry http://tapestry.info/ or 2Simple Build a Profile https://www.2buildaprofile.com/ are good examples of this.
In Key Stage 1 and Year 3 (Ages 5-8) we have this term been using SeeSaw www.seesaw.me. It is a free app that allows the teacher to, in essence create a private class blog that the children post to. I really like the fact that the students log on by scanning a QR Code which certainly saves time. The app includes simple features that allow the children to reflect on learning by uploading images, videos and drawings then annotating them with text and audio. The teacher can then moderate the work, approve them and comment. Very simple and nice way into using tools such as www.showbie.com
We use Showbie with our children aged 8 and above. It is widely used as a way to provide individual feedback to pupils and capture their progress across a task/project. The assignment structure means teachers do not have to create folders for students. We use Showbie to provide resources for students, comment on their work and it is our main iPad assessment and evidence tool. Other features such as the built-in e-reader and annotation tools have also been popular.
A problem with iPad evidence is linking the digital media the students create to their exercise books. We have recently started using Aurasma app to embed videos into the books. For example, a science experience could be recorded, edited in iMovie and attached to the physical work in the student's Science books.
A similar thing is done using QR Codes where we put them on display with the children's work to link to the digital files. Apps such as My Story Maker and Hopscotch programming app allow the user to create a web-link which can then be attached to QR codes. For example, My Story will display eBooks the students have created on a web-page so parents can view them on any device.
We are also looking at Foldr, www.freeyourfiles.co.uk as a way to save iPad work and files from any device at home or school to our school network. iTunes U now has Showbie-esque assessment tools that have really enhanced that solution. Particularly with ability for students to submit in their own work and be graded/receive feedback. http://www.apple.com/uk/education/ipad/itunes-u/
There are now lots of options for assessment and storing iPad work and it is worth testing as many as you can because it is not as simple as one size fits all.
We have updated the Assessment and Evidence section of our iPad Teacher Guide app, more details at www.ipadteachers.com
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I learned three new things about my iPad from this post. And I joined STAFFRM. Unexpected!