Managing Individual Education Programs (IEP) on the iPad

Individual Education Programs (IEP) can be difficult to put in place at the best of times. IEP's are sometime a source of concern and frustration. The more informed people are about the IEP process the better the IEP can be. Parents will normally work with teachers to develop a plan to help the students succeed in school. The IEP assists this process by describing the goals the whole team sets for a student during the school year, as well as any special support needed to help achieve them. Here are a number of apps that make managing and collecting data for the IEP Process just that little bit easier.

IEP Checklist: FREE
IEP Checklist is a tool for parents and teachers to consider as they develop the IEP. Not every item on the checklist is required by special education regulations. For more information, consult the Federal regulations and other information that can be found at http://idea.ed.gov. The IEP Checklist is sponsored by The Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center (PEATC). http://www.peatc.org.

http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/iep-checklist/id348702423?mt=8


Prologuo2Go: $199.99 AU
Proloquo2Go is for anyone who cannot afford spending thousands of dollars on an AAC device and yet wants a solution that is just as good if not better. SLPs, teachers and parents recommend it for children and adults with autism, cerebral palsy, down syndrome, developmental disabilities, apraxia, ALS, stroke or traumatic brain injury.

http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/proloquo2go/id308368164?mt=8


My IEP: $5.49 AU
myIEPmeeting helps parents and guardians effectively participate in their student’s Individualized Education Program process. Organize and gather information, Monitor child’s progress and Give Access on a mobile device to help maintain support. Tools include: Before, During and After checklists and questions to help gather and organize information for your IEP meeting; Behavior Tracker and Monitoring

http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/myiepmeeting/id479474205?mt=8


First Then Visual Schedule: $9.99 AU
Designed to provide positive behavioral support for those with communication needs. This application provides an affordable and convenient audio-visual prompting tool for use on the iPhone or iPad. The portability and ease of use of the of the iPhone and iPad make it perfect for use at school, home or in the community. Visual schedules also help individuals transition to other activities quicker and more efficiently.

http://itunes.apple.com/app/first-then-visual-schedule/id355527801


Goal Tracker on the Go: $2.99 AU
Goal Tracker helps you focus on daily tasks. It can be used to track good behavior, a set of chores, a daily routine, or other personal daily goals. You can also set goals for improving eating habits, taking medicine, drinking enough water, or whatever you choose. You can adjust your goals to make it more challenging. You'll visually see your accomplishments, and you can setup rewards for when you complete your goals.

http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/goaltracker/id363497991?mt=8&affId=161837uo%3D4


Behaviour Tracker Pro: $31.99 AU
An app to track behaviors and automatically graph them. Dramatically improves the process of teaching and treating children with Autism! Supports unlimited number of children and observers! Optionally record video of behaviors or interventions for later review. Upload your data to our secure Team Portal for advanced online charting, team collaboration, video messaging, document management and more!

http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/behaviortrackerpro/id319708933?mt=8


ABC Data Pro: $29.99 AU
A multi-mode data collection App made to assist professionals and students in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), special education, school psychology, and clinical psychology, as well as researchers conducting observational studies. ABC Data Pro is an unobtrusive data collection tool for behavior and/or event counting, partial interval recording, full interval recording and ABC (FBA) recording.

http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/abc-data-pro/id349426906


Autism Track $49.99 AU
AutismTrack is a journaling tool that empowers caregivers to easily track interventions, behaviors and symptoms. Checkboxes allow daily recording of any therapy, medicine or diet. Simple “sliders” allow rating of any behavior or symptom (e.g., eye contact, aggression and echolalic speech). Daily log screens provide a snapshot of any particular day’s interventions and behaviors. Users may also graph symptoms and monitor compliance over periods of time.

http://itunes.apple.com/app/autismtrack/id391660393


Skill Tracker Pro: $31.99 AU
Skill Tracker Pro automates ABA therapy instruction for children with Autism. STP allows unlimited clients and observers, optional video capture and charting/export of all data. STP has a built in library with hundreds of skills and targets that can be assigned to the clients’ curriculum. During cold probe data collection, skills and targets are automatically randomized, or the user can choose which target to probe, one at a time.

http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/skill-tracker-pro/id398058644


Conversation Builder: $10.49 AU
ConversationBuilder is designed to help elementary aged children learn how to have multi-exchange conversations with their peers in a variety of social settings. The auditory pattern of conversation is presented in a visual format to help students recognize and master the flow of conversation. Students will learn when it is appropriate to introduce themselves, ask questions, make observations and change the subject of the conversation.

http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/conversationbuilder/id413939366?mt=8


iPrompts $51.99 AU
iPrompts is a picture-based prompting app for the iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad It is used by parents, special educators and therapists working with Autism, Down syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, and apraxia of speech. The app includes picture schedules with a visual count-down timer so an individual knows how much time is left for a specific activity and choice prompts so an individual can choose the item they want.



iReward $5.49 
Behavior analysts often use tangible rewards when working with children. For example, when a child earns a certain number of stars for behavior you want repeated, they are rewarded. You can choose the behavior you are trying to reinforce, choose your reward, and then choose the number of times the behavior needs to be completed before the reward is earned.



Teacher's Assistant Pro: $7.49 AU
Teacher's Assistant Pro allows teachers to keep track of student actions, behavior, infractions, and achievements in the classroom. Communicate quickly and easily with parents and your administration by documenting student classroom habits and behaviors and sending reports via email or making a call right from your iPhone. Designed by a teacher, and used by thousands of teachers across the world. Includes PIN code security.





Discovery Learning: Games Designed to Let you Fail

Games can sometimes provide us with opportunities to fail. It is this failing that allows us to learn. This is necessary in order to improve our next attempt and our next, until we get it right. Some of the most interesting games come without any instructions at all and mean that the very nature of the game itself needs to be discovered. This fits in perfectly with how kids use and embrace new technology - no one read the instructions - they just press the buttons until they work out what they all do. Here are some great games that allow kids to fail and in the process learn to learn.

Feed the Head: $1.99 AU
This has to be my all time favourite game. Prod the Head. Tug the Head... but most importantly, Feed the Head. Like a living cartoon, the Head will unfold and transform in surprising and hilarious ways. I won't give away too much, it is guaranteed there is no other iPad app quite like this one. Trial and error without any instructions. It is fascinating to watch a student with this app. Why can my students do this so much easier than me?

http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/feed-the-head/id415138546?mt=8


Where's My Water: $0.99 AU
Swampy the Alligator lives in the sewers under the city. He is a little different from the other alligators — he’s curious, friendly, and loves taking a nice long shower after a hard day at work. The other alligators have damaged his plumbing and disrupted the water flow. Help Swampy by guiding water to his shower! Great ability to retry both the develop solving skills and to improve score.

http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/wheres-my-water/id449735650?mt=8


Room Break: $1.99 AU
Room Break is an adventure game about escaping. The purpose of this game is simple. Users will be detained to certain situations and they need to open the door of each room and escape. Obviously, users need to figure out how to open the doors. Maybe, there are some unexpected tricks hidden. But, it is not difficult at all, if you pay attention a little bit more, you will be able to find out all the hints.

http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/roombreak-escape-now!!/id463700550?mt=8


Crossfingers: FREE
A unique game which challenges you to combine solid pieces in a gigantic tangram puzzle. You will need to exercise your brain, imagination and - unique for a puzzle game - your reflexes and dexterity to complete all levels. The full version contains 390 levels,  for unlimited replay, the Arcade Mode, which puts you in the middle of a frenetic machine where the challenge is to survive and beat the top score.

http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/cross-fingers-free/id337490783?mt=8


Doodlefit: FREE
The task in Doodle Fit is simple: fit the given sets of blocks into the given shapes. Drag the blocks into positions in search for the layout that covers the whole shape. A level is complete when all blocks have been used and there is no more space free in the shape. Once you start playing you won't be able to stop! Many levels with different shapes and even more different solutions in total for replayability.

http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/doodle-fit/id392912231?mt=8


Drainworks: FREE
Splash into the world of Drainworks! 48 unique levels await you, challenging your dexterity and your puzzle-solving skills. Drainworks boasts realistic water physics, an original soundtrack, Game Center leaderboards and a host of achievements. Twist, touch and push your way through 4 distinct worlds to collect runaway water - do it quickly and without losing a drop for maximum scores.

http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/drainworks-lt/id401793044?mt=8


JellyCar: FREE
JellyCar is a driving/platforming game for both iPhone and iPod touch. The game is about driving a squishy car through squishy worlds, trying to reach the exit. JellyCar features soft body physics for all of the objects in the world. Also your car can transform for a limited time to aid progression through the level. So hop in, start your jelly engines, and find the stop sign!

http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/jellycar/id293886459?mt=8


Geared HD: $0.99 AU
Geared is a radically new and innovative puzzle game; a unique addition to its genre. The first and only Gear-based game with absolutely no snap-grid. Geared delivers complete and total freedom to the player, bestowing every puzzle with a near infinite array of choices. Pit your intellect against 200 uniquely designed levels, original to this game. 200 levels of addictive gameplay.

http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/geared-for-ipad/id368624362?mt=8


7 Little Words: FREE
If you enjoy crossword puzzles, word finds, and anagram games, you're going to love 7 Little Words! Each bite-size puzzle consists of 7 clues, 7 mystery words, and 20 letter groups. Find the mystery words by deciphering the clues and combining the letter groups. 7 Little Words is fun, challenging, and easy to learn. You've never played anything like it before. Give 7 Little Words a try today!

http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/7-little-words/id431434152?mt=8


Touch Physics: FREE
Draw shapes with a crayon that come to life. These shapes interact with the wheel, causing it to move according to physical laws. When it reaches the star, the level is complete. Are you up to the challenge? Touch Physics Lite is an innovative game that allows you to be in control of the wheel's destiny. Change the laws of physics to suit your game! Beware, this is not as simple as it sounds!

English Apps for Middle School

English is one of the major components of the curriculum. For any 1:1 iPad program to be really successful appropriate apps need to be sourced that will not only meet curriculum outcomes but also address the learning needs of your students. The following is a list of apps that have been researched and evaluated specifically for use in the Middle School English course. This extensive list was compiled by @ShireenRichards

Reference:

Must Have:
Dictionary.Com: (Suitable for Years 5-8) 
Essential dictionary and thesaurus for students 
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/dictionary.com-dictionary/id364740856?mt=8




Reading and Reading Strategies:
Must Have Apps:

iReadItNow FREE (Suitable for Years 5-8) 
At last - a reading log that is suitable for the Middle School age range!
(otherwise could use Pages or blogs/forums instead)
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/ireaditnow/id349773058?mt=8      

Professor Garfield Fact or Opinion: FREE (Suitable for Years 5-6)
Teaches students how to identify fact vs opinion in text 
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/professor-garfield-fact-or/id401257010?mt=8

Professor Garfield Forms of Media: FREE (Suitable for Years 5-6)
Teaches students about persuasive forms of media
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/professor-garfield-forms-media/id401257299?mt=8




Recommended Apps:

English Idioms Illustrated: FREE (Suitable for Years 5-8) 
Provides a pictorial explanation of the meaning and origin of idiomatic sayings
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/english-idioms-illustrated/id413057971?mt=8
Best Books for Tweens: FREE  (Suitable for Years 5-6) 
Lists and reviews suitable books for students in this age group to read 
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/best-books-for-tweens/id431558984?mt=8





Spelling Utilities/Vocabulary/Word Games:
Must Have Apps:


Chicktionary HD: FREE (Suitable for Years 5-8) 




Recommended Apps:


Flashcards+ : FREE  (Suitable for Years 5-6) 
A useful app for students to learn spelling words (could use the free version and put up with ads)
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/flashcards/id408490162?mt=8

Words with Friends HD: FREE and $2.99 AU  (Suitable for Years 5-8)
Great for students to compete against one another (could use the free version with ads!)
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/words-with-friends-hd/id364140796?mt=8


Blanks: FREE  (Suitable for Years 7-8)
Teaches students correct word meaning and expands vocabulary
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/blanks/id286883373?mt=8


The Opposites: $2.99 AU (Suitable for Years 5+) 
Teaches students opposite words in context via games, starts easy and gets quite difficult
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/the-opposites/id480194638?mt=8



Writing Tools:
Must Have Apps:


Toontastic: $1.99 AU  (Suitable for Years 5-6)
Must have as it uses cartoon writing to teach students about narrative structure
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/toontastic/id404693282?mt=8



Storykit: FREE (Suitable for Years 5-6)
A simple way to create picture storybooks or illustrated stories
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/storykit/id329374595?mt=8



Creative Book Builder: $4.49 AU (Suitable for Years 5-8, particularly 7-8)
Create and publish ebooks
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/creative-book-builder-create/id451041428?mt=8



Sock Puppets: FREE (Suitable for Years 5-6) 
Students can create mini dialogues between 'sock puppets'
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/sock-puppets/id394504903?mt=8



Kids Write Text Types $0.99 AU (Suitable for Years 5-6)
Outlines all required text types, complete with examples, blank planner templates and posters. Very useful for Year 5
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/kids-write-text-types/id480079925?mt=8



The Guardian Eyewitness: FREE (Suitable for Year 5-8)
This is a daily gallery of distinctive and provocative photographs that are great for use as writing stimulus
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/the-guardian-eyewitness/id363993651?mt=8




Recommended Apps:


StoryRobe:  $0.99 AU (Suitable for Years 5-8) 
A mobile digital storytelling app that provides a simple way to record story readings with illustrations or photos. 
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/storyrobe/id337670615?mt=8


Penultimate: $1.99 AU (Suitable for Years 5-8) 
A useful and very quick scrapbook/journal creator.
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/penultimate/id354098826?mt=8



Mad Libs: FREE (Suitable for Years 5-6)
A classic that enables the user to input words that are then used to create a 'mad' story. Usually very popular with students and a bit of fun that enhances knowledge of grammar and provides reading practice. 
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/mad-libs/id326885152?mt=8

Haiku Poems: FREE
This app provides a range of poems based on the seasons. It also has instructions on how to compose within the Haiku structure. Students can send their own compositions for inclusion in the app. Useful for year 6 poetry unit.
http://itunes.apple.com/app/haiku-poems/id451144568?mt=8

Grammar:


Must Have Apps:

iTooch English: $5.49 AU (Suitable for Grade 5)
This really is a must have app that could potentially replace the use of a grammar text book. Currently on sale at $2.99 but will be $5.49. This app explains the concept, provides practice and then tests understanding. Hopefully the app will be available for year 6 in the near future. 
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/itooch-english-grade-5/id423779711?mt=8

Grammar App HD: $1.99 AU (Suitable for Years 5-8) 
Provides lessons, reference information and practical applications of all aspects of Grammar. Also reinforces learning through games, quizzes and tests. Very useful. must have
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/grammar-app-hd-by-tap-to-learn/id379790077?mt=8




Recommended Apps:
Grammar Games $0.99 AU (Suitable for Year 5-6)
This app has lessons followed by reinforcement using simple but quite challenging and fun games which require the user to 'fly' the words into the appropriate parts of speech airport hangars. 
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/grammar-games/id434660444?mt=8

Other interesting Apps 
Mobile Mouse: $2.99 AU 
Enables the use of the iPad to remotely control laptop - very handy when laptop is connected to IWB! 
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/mobile-mouse-remote-trackpad/id363573369?mt=8

eClickerHost $10.49 AU
The eClicker apps provide the opportunity for quizzing students whereby students individually log their responses.
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/eclicker/id329200145?mt=8



eClicker: FREE 
The eClicker app works in conjunction with the eClicker Host paid app to provide opportunities for quizzing students whereby students individually log their responses.
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/eclicker-host/id329199509?mt=8




Rover: FREE 
Enables user to play flash games - have yet to test on a school network! Would be useful for students to access 'Spelling City' games.
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/rover/id483262612?mt=8

iSwifter $5.49 
Enables users to play flash games and movies. Would be useful for students to access 'Spelling City' games at home.
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/iswifter/id388857173?mt=8