The iPad as Mobile Teaching Device: Multimedia Database Access in a Classroom Context

Abstract

The problem presented in this action-based research paper is “How can a multimedia database be utilized as a teaching and learning technology in the classroom?” This paper describes uses of the iPad as a mobile handheld delivery device for multimedia database components. Teaching strategies, utilizing the iPad as a teaching and learning tool, benefit from several key affordances over previous iPod generations: ease of interaction (touch screen), increased screen size, controllable multimedia playback, significant volume, and WiFi access. The teaching strategies described in this paper include the leading of mobile small group demonstrations, leading large group demonstrations, and student-directed playback-and-practice activities. An overview of the processes used to create a video database on an iPad is presented as a component of successful use. Further research exploring iPad utilization in other educational contexts is needed.