There's more to the story. I also spoke with some 1st grade teachers in my building about their favorite game apps to use with their students. They have 6 iPads to use in the classroom. I have to say that the top 1st grade choices don't fit the criteria for encouraging problem solving or logical thinking, they encourage students answer quickly, beat their time or score, or in the case of Math Duel - another live player. Some, like Geoboard, can be used to discover and explore mathematical concepts. However, it is safe to assume that no intense, student-guided learning is occurring.
I would argue, however, that this isn't all bad news. I agree that are better ways to use technology, but if this is free choice or 15 minutes spent at an iPad center I'm okay with it. Students are learning their way around technology, they are practicing as they would on paper but it is saving a few trees and most importantly, the teacher gains a few precious minutes to spend with students who need individual assistance. One of the advantages of flipped or blended lessons is that students are self-guiding so the teachers can do something else. At the very least these apps provide that opportunity.
My students want to be engaged active learners. I want them to be creative, innovative learners, problem solvers prepared for the future. I don't want to see the school district literally buying into the hype of edutainment. But I'm not ready to condemn 15 minutes of free choice just yet. Sometimes we all need a little Math Duel....
I would argue, however, that this isn't all bad news. I agree that are better ways to use technology, but if this is free choice or 15 minutes spent at an iPad center I'm okay with it. Students are learning their way around technology, they are practicing as they would on paper but it is saving a few trees and most importantly, the teacher gains a few precious minutes to spend with students who need individual assistance. One of the advantages of flipped or blended lessons is that students are self-guiding so the teachers can do something else. At the very least these apps provide that opportunity.
My students want to be engaged active learners. I want them to be creative, innovative learners, problem solvers prepared for the future. I don't want to see the school district literally buying into the hype of edutainment. But I'm not ready to condemn 15 minutes of free choice just yet. Sometimes we all need a little Math Duel....