It's a glimpse of what the learning environment in Rock Hill schools could become as the district embraces mobile devices.
About a dozen high school students are already testing the iPad. Soon middle and high schools will each get 60 iPod touch devices.
Superintendent Lynn Moody wants to replace older computers with the latest handheld technology, which she calls "student engagement devices."
Teachers got a look at the future Friday when Apple representatives demonstrated the devices' educational potential. The demos were part of the school system's annual Student Engagement Conference, when educators from across the district gather for workshops and training sessions.
Technology is a continuing theme.
Among other topics, the day-long conference included sessions on creating and editing educational videos, using Google Earth in social studies and safely surfing the Web.
Moody, who often says "we're preparing students for jobs that don't even exist yet," has made keeping pace with changing technology a priority.
"These students are 21st century learners," she said. "I can't imagine teaching without technology. It's the way they learn."
Over the last three years, nearly every classroom has been outfitted with a $5,000 interactive white board system, a digital touch screen, roughly the size of a chalkboard, that can play video and surf the Web.
Over the summer, principals received iPhone devices loaded with an application that stores student records and photos, providing instant access to critical details.
In addition to the iPad and iPod, the district plans to install a wireless network at several campuses. This will allow students who already have the devices online acces in class.
During Friday's demonstrations, Apple salesman Jeff Rummel showed teachers how to download hundreds of educational applications. Some are aimed at teaching children to read. Others offer math problems with video tutorials. There are testing programs and virtual field trips.
Rummel showed how instead of passing papers back to students, a teacher can send them electronically as she walks around the class.
Apple Ipod Reviews
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