Blog Post 2- Handheld Devices

With a $10,000 budget for handheld devices, I would like to split the money between two types of devices: MP3 players and E-readers.

First, I would buy 50 mp3 players at $50.00 each.  Checking on Amazon.com, you can get mp3 players that range in price from $23.00 - $60.00, the differences are features like FM radios built in.  The $50.00 range did not have built in radios and had more memory.  Many dyslexic and learning disabled students can comprehend reading on a higher level than they can process. Students with reading and learning disabilities would be able to check these out of the library with their textbooks already loaded, since most textbooks come with audio cds.  This will allow them to listen to the textbooks.  As they have reading assignments, they can have audio books loaded as well. This will allow them to do grade level work without the frustrations caused by their disabilities.  Audio books will also help the ELL students increase their language acquisition by allowing them to hear natural language more often.

Second, I would buy 75 E-readers at $100.00 each. Again I checked Amazon.com and they have used and refurbished Kindles for $85.00 - $100.00.  By getting them used and refurbished they are cheaper and less likely to get stolen.  I have found that reluctant readers will try new books and read more when technology is involved. Also, avid readers would loose less classroom time checking out new books every few days.  When the latest favorite book is released, it is difficult for every student, who wants to read it, to gain access.  E-readers would give students access to books that have limited availability on the shelves, and access to more books at one time. If students need to do research, they have access to many books, and can even highlight text and make notes. Librarians can gauge student interest before purchasing books as well. E-readers have free samples of books. Librarians can have students read the sample and critique what they read, then use this information to determine if there would be enough interest to purchase one or more copies of a book.

Policies would have to be created to protect the handheld devices, and the students ability to use them.