[LM_NET] TARGET: Using iPods for Literature Circles

["Wenzel, Donna" <DWENZEL@PAPLV.ESU3.ORG>]

I have previously posted queries about the use of audio books in the
classroom and researched this for almost a year.  I am now ready to take
the plunge and need some confirmation.  I have a $500 grant (which I
need to spend by end of month) to purchase audio books for use on MP3
players in 7th grade reading classes.  I have looked at Follett's
Playaway which seems really easy to use, but not many titles yet
(although I am sure they will add more soon).  Audible.com does not have
a school plan yet, but I can put the monies in their Platinum plan (and
they have agreed to let me download to all 5 devices with one plan)
which will get me approx 52 books for my $500.00.  I will have up to 1
year to use my credits and I am sure they will continue to add more
titles.  They already have an excellent selection.
 
We are waiting for the new iPod shuffles to come out, thinking we can
download audio books onto them and have 5 students in a lit circle
"reading" the same book.  Actually, students will be required to read
along with the audio to strengthen their reading skills.  Then we will
use a video iPod with TuneTalk that we already own to record group
discussions.
 
Does anyone see a "red flag" with this plan based on their experiences
with this type of thing?  Or suggestions for a better way? Or better
sources for book titles?  Or suggestions on security measures?   I will
take all the advice I can get.
 
Donna Wenzel
Media Specialist
La Vista Junior High
La Vista, NE 68128
dwenzel@paplv.esu3.org
 

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