EdTech Apps that aren't

I know there are thousands of iPad apps out there for education. I thank TCEA every day for posting their list of free ed apps on twitter. I go through the list, check them out on the App Store and download the ones that look interesting. They're free so no harm done if they turn out to be...less than stellar!
In my quest for apps that are useful for the multisensory dyslexia program that I teach, I have discovered some apps that I'm sure were never intended for 2nd & 3rd graders to be using than in an elementary school classroom! Anyone who knows me, however, shouldn't be surprised that I took something and made it work for me and my kids.
The apps I refer to are: Sign 'n' Send (free version) and DocScan. DocScan does just what you might expect - scan a document by taking a picture of it. DocScan looked for edges, cleans up the keystone effect and then you can save your document. Sign 'n' Send is designed to be used for annotating documents or putting a signature to a document that you get, for example, as an email attachment without having to print it, sign it, scan it, and re-send it.
Here's how we use it in class. I "scan" reading activities (integral to the MTA program) with DocScan and after straightening them, send to Sign 'n' Send where the students can then do their coding/reading practice on the iPad. With my MacBook pro and the Reflection program which enables wireless mirroring, we can see the pen strokes on the board while the students pass the iPad around the group.
Benefits: high interest, immediate feedback, opportunities for collaboration and group discussion of concepts, differentiation, etc.
I am aware that this is just a high tech way to do the same type of activity, but my program is pretty structured and specific tasks must be completed in a specific way. Doing these activities on the iPad just help spark an interest and provide motivation. Motivation to do more MTA reading and coding and also motivation to explore other ways of using the iPad and different types of activities.
So...not all apps that are designed for education work as planned and apps not designed for education may be just what is needed to provide a new way of looking at the "same old reading practices".
Just a thought...

Trying to Be Tech Savvy

I really am trying to integrate technology with the curriculum for the dyslexia program that I teach.  Like most things, the ideas in my head are much better than they actually turn out.  The best use of technology integration, so far, is my SMART Board.  It is ideal for a multisensory program!! No brainer, it's a keeper.
Now I'm trying to sort out my other options.  I have been to workshops and conferences where I've learned about Edmodo, Google Docs, LiveBinders, iPads in the classroom...the list goes on and on.  I am such a techno-nerd that I am excited about every one of them!  The problem is, do they all really have a practical purpose in my classroom?  That's my goal for the summer - find the best 2 or 3 tech tools for my students and my program.
This year has been a year of discovery and next year will be a year of implementation!
Wish me luck!!