- BE VERY PREPARED - OVERPREPARED - So that you are fully competent in what you are teaching and you are able to relaxed and be very aware of how the individuals are receiving your instruction.
- Rehearse your use of the technology and know ahead of time what your back up will be if your technology fails you (i.e. the projector goes out because it's overheating, the wifi is overwhelmed and you keep losing connection, etc.)
- In our situation, I am preferring to connect to a mobile wifi unit that only I am connected to, while the others are connected to the wifi available in our building. That way, as an instructor, I have the strongest connection because I'm not sharing with 15+ others.
- Break down the introductory skills into components with one-step directions allowing for observation of modeling and immediate opportunity to practice (Ex. This is how you connect the cord to the iPad... now you try it.)
- If using video demosntration, from Youtube for example, use brief clips (less than one minute) because more than that is too much information to take in and try to apply. Alway follow the video with a live demonstration narrating the steps you are taking to accomplish that skill. (There are wonderful resources on the internet, such as videos on YouTube that walk users through iPad basics. However, these videos cover information way too fast for this population. For example, most iPad basics videos cover in 5 minutes what I covered in an hour of training.)
- Have volunteers available to provide one-on-one modeling and assistance with those who need it in close proximity with modified instruction.
- Be interesting and animated with your verbal instructions. Auditory learning is difficult for many and your voice can get boring really fast so gain attention by varying your voice.
- Be purposeful in controlling the amount of stimuli in the environment, as the louder it gets, the more difficult it is for individuals to focus, filter, and cope. Be aware when the room is getting overstimulating, gain everyone's attention to quiet it down once again, and even model taking 5 deep breaths at breaks if needed.
- Recognize and state that learning a new skill, especially technology, is challenging and that it's okay to feel a little anxious. Provide A LOT of encouragement and reassurance.
- Break up the learning times with movement breaks, or interesting videos or demonstrations.
- Have "learning reviews and checks" (i.e. "Okay, so we just covered how to use the home button. Who can tell me what the home button does?"
- Be purposeful in using the individuals who already have the skill to provide assistance and mentoring to those friends who need the help. This is an important social skill, to help, and it is empowering for these individuals to feel like leaders.
- Break up whole group instruction and utilize small groups or stations as ways to provide more individualized attention.
- Introduce the camera app early on in the trainings. This is VERY FUN and it gives them an opportunity to get up, walk around, socially interact, and feel a sense of accomplishment.
- If using powerpoint/prezi presentation slides, make them MOSTLY VISUAL with minimal text. (see examples in picture) Many of these photos I got from doing an image search on Google.
- Use airplay mirroring when modeling on your iPad so everyone can seeyou navigate your iPad on a large screen. I also have found it critical to have a laser pointer so I can bring attention to the features that I am talking about. (Otherwise, they have no way of seeing what icon you are touching.)
- Hold onto your original vision that the iPads will be life-changing for these guys, even in moments of slow learning or frustration. It will take time but it's all worth it, and it will become more intuitive as skills are applied to apps that the individuals find meaningful and exciting.
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