Getting+Started

Engraved numbers on back of each device, serial number recorded for each device, WCS bar code sticker, plastic cases
 * Initial Inventory Process:**

We use a syncing case that holds 20 devices, but I have found the more you have plugged in at one time, the slower the syncing process becomes. I plug in one side of the cart, sync those, then unplug them and repeat the process on the other side.


 * Adding Apps to Our iTunes Library and iPods: **

We have been using all free apps. But you must be careful, if you play some apps long enough you will notice ads begin to appear. Educational apps usually don't contain inappropriate ads, but this is not 100% true all the time. So, just because an app has a good review iTunes, or looks good at a first glance, make sure someone on your team uses it for a while before installing it on student iPods. Take a look at the resources page on the left for some app lists to get you started or simply do a Google search for educational apps for iPods.

Installing numerous apps can take a while. Everyone is looking for a short cut to speed the process up. For me, the quickest method has been to create a master image by setting up one iPod touch with all apps and restrictions we want in place, such as removing You Tube and iTunes, and not allowing them to delete apps. I also make sure I sign out of my Apple ID on the device or students will try to guess the password and lock the account, which requires a device restore and additional time. Next, I actually erase and reset each iPod before plugging it in. I reset because if I don't, it will create a back up of the iPod before it begins to make the new updates I am trying to add and that is wasting 15 to 20 minutes per device. Once the device appears in iTunes, I simply right click and restore from my back up. This puts the "image" on the device. Now, keep in mind, you will not have different names for your devices anymore if you do this. Since it is an image they will all share the master image's name. The nice thing about images though is that you could have an elementary, middle and high school image depending on who was getting that particular set of iPods and the apps would be relevant to that particular grade level.

**Teacher Training:** Summer Sessions Activity Building Lesson Plans App Exploration and Requests Notebook & Forms Calendar