Saturday, July 2, 2011

Ebooks on iPads: fad or future?

Mindful Learning Mindful Teaching Ning have put together a very good post on using ebook apps in learning: 'Digital Reading on the iPad: Fad or Books in transition'.

They quote Kristen McLean (online, 2009) who suggests that ebooks are potentially highly effective literacy learning tools allowing young readers to : control the story, absorb information visually, immerse themselves in an alternate world, scroll back and forth, touch and point, anticipate developments, and ask thoughtful questions. This creates great analytical skills and an empowered reader, the kind of reader that will hopefully go on to ask better questions of all media, and make thoughtful decisions about what is worthy of their attention.

However they point out that just like traditional print books 'quality matters' for ebook apps.
They suggest you look for books which have engaging narratives, with well developed story lines, strong characterization, contemporary themes as well as rich use of language.

Read more at the Mindful Learning Mindful Teaching Ning. If you are not a member of this Ning you can ask to join when you go to the site.

Some ebooks we can recommend are:

Bartelby's book of buttons (uses the interactive features of the ipad to make this a highly engaging experience)

A Christmas Carol by Padworx - an abridged version of Charles Dickens Classic (steam punk animation brings this beautiful classic alive to a new generation)


Wonkey Donkey (engaging, fun, repetition of words reinforces learning)

Animalia (the beautiful artwork is replicated in this app as well as search for hidden objects.


Rockfords Rock Opera (a unique musical story around the topic of ecology, ecosystems and extinction)

Angelina Ballerina's New Ballet Teacher (includes read to, read by myself, video, a puzzle.)

Cozmo's Day Off (great animations, includes activities)

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