e-Reading Ideas

Basic Ideas

Students can read a range of books using an electronic device rather than a traditional book

Students *may* be able to take the devices away from the classroom in order to continue reading

Students can write their own stories or edit stories on a computer, export as an eBook and view/read them on the device

Students may be able to write reviews or complete associated tasks on the device

Students can share stories

Students *may* be able to play an MP3 version of the story whilst reading

Students could annotate their stories - potentially useful specifically in English

Potential for purchasing text books in this format, and annotating for later revision

Devices

PDA/Smartphone

Advantages, Can add other curriculum software (e.g. SUMSonline), Multi-function device. If allowed to take home then device becomes more frequently used., Can get a good deal @ £50 per device, Broad range of software and file formats

Disadvantages, Can add other non-curriculum software (e.g. games), If a smartphone, students could stick their own SIM card, Small screen - could put some students off

eBook Reader (e.g. Sony)

Advantages, Specifically engineered for reading, Larger screen, longer lasting batteries, Single purpose - so no confusion over intended use, Harder to lose

Disadvantages, Most expensive solution, Bulky, so not as portable, Possible DRM/filetype restrictions (need to investigate further)

PSP/DS

Advantages, Range of learning products available, Quite cheap (< £100 new), Students already familiar with and able to engage with

Disadvantages, Games could be a distraction, Desirable items - possibly likely to go missing, May be seen as too gimmicky or toy-like for parents/governors/SMT, Small screens, Possible DRM/filetype restrictions

UMPC

Advantages, May be able to source form Science due to upgrade cycle, No filetype/DRM restrictions, Mid-sized screen, Range of other applications available, Many students already familiar with them, Easy to network, Keyboard included for any related tasks

Disadvantages, Bulky due to size, Potential for distraction due to other applications, Students (may) already associate them with work

Useful Links

Rising Stars: http://www.risingstars-uk.com/

Rising Stars 'Extraordinary Files' http://customerimages.education.co.uk/rising_stars/EXFILES.pdf

SUMSonline PDA offer http://www.sums.co.uk/dellpda.htm