16 August 2017
Apple has made an entry into Singapore’s education system via its new initiative, Apple Teacher, which is a programme designed to support educators who utilize Apple products, such as the iPad or the Mac, as part of their instructional materials.
Apple Teacher provides resources for teachers to improve their technological competency as well as guides on how to deploy technology in the classroom setting. There are starter guides that help teachers use Apple software and products for class presentations and interactions as well as organise their lesson plans.
The School of Science and Technology and St Joseph’s Institution Junior are currently enrolled with Apple Teacher.
Apple Teacher was first launched in the US last year when Apple unveiled the new iPhone 7 and Apple Watch 2.
Other tech companies like Microsoft and Google are also offering similar professional learning programmes. For example, Microsoft’s professional learning programme for teachers in Singapore, the Microsoft Innovative Educator programme, offers both learning resources as well as work attachments for teachers to have stints within the company.
There are currently 84 educators in Singapore who have gone through the Microsoft Innovative Educator programme, and another 18 who have completed the more advanced MIE Experts programme.