Elise Grimes
Last year the Education Committee tutors started an experiment using iPad tablets to help fourth and fifth grade students learn math. They found that using the traditional methods including flash cards to teach multiplication and division in groups of nine or 10 students was not progressing very well. Working with the school administrators and teachers they developed a program where they moved the kids into the library and started using tablets loaded with approved free math programs.
The program included games and competitions. One of the 5th grade classes had an end of the year NCAA basketball type competition. The kids loved this new format, and their progress was incredible. Other math skills were also taught using the tablets with the students showing the same level of progress.
The Education Committee is looking for donations of used or unwanted iPads that are in good working condition so we can expand the math tutoring program. We are asking that the tablets be erased of all personal information. If you are unable to do this, Messabyte “The Computer Store in SaddleBrooke,” has generously volunteered to erase the tablets of all personal information before they are loaded with the math apps and assigned to the students.
The tablets may be dropped off at the SBCO Office at 63675 E. SaddleBrooke Blvd., Suite L, Tucson, AZ 85739 Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. If you have questions please contact the Education Committee vice presidents Elise Grimes at [email protected] or Steve Groth at 333-4262.