What is an iPod?

The iPod, designed and marketed by Apple, Inc., is a portable media device.  The original iPod was primarily used to store and play music files, but later versions like the Video iPod, and the iPod Touch could store and play other media types and applications as well.  in addition to music, later generation iPods could store and play, videos, photos, audio books, podcasts, and vodcasts.  Users of iPod devices can through the use of the iTunes application and the Apple iTunes store, purchase and transfer media files, podcasts and applications to their iPod.  

How can an iPod be used to increase student communication and learning?

The iPod would be an extremely helpful device for any student taking a course taught by a teacher using podcasts or vodcasts. Students could subscribe to the teachers pod/vodcast and it will automatically download to their computer. When the student plugs the iPod into their computer to charge, it will automatically download any new pod/vodcasts to the device. Then the students will be able to listen and/or watch the teachers lectures or other students presentations at their own leisure. 

Teachers can assign audio books for students to listen to on their iPods to improve literacy and/or to support content area.

Literacy

1.  Improve listening skills – headphones will help block out distractions and allow the student to focus on listening to the story
2.  Increase comprehension and vocabulary- students listening to the professionals reading the story will hear how they emphasize words and use vocabulary that may not be a part of the students normal day
3. Visualization – visualization helps the students to make meaning of the text
4. Fluency – following along with the book will help build fluency

Content Area

1. Teacher can assign audio books that go along with the classroom topics.

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