Wireless Headset Broken Receiver Solution
(Added 4/14/21)
XIAOKOA Wireless Headset
(Added 10/7/20)
I found myself in need of a wireless headset, so I went over to Amazon to see what they had available. The ratings for this model you see to your right were very good, so I gave it a shot. So far, so good. I connect it to my Ion Block Rocker. Very good range (Over 60 feet away). It comes with a cord that charges both the headset and receiver. You will need a USB charger block to plug in to charge. I use a 5 watt iPhone charging block and it works fine.
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iPad Tripod Mount Floor Stand
(Added 8/17/20)
Before I did a review on this, I really wanted to use this a ton to see if it would stand up. Well, it has. As you can see it attaches on the top and bottom (or sides if you're holding it vertically) by way of spring loaded clamps. One thing to keep in mind, the case I have is one of those thin cases with the cover that allows for the iPad to "sleep" when closed. The bottom feet can be positioned close together or wide apart. The fact that it has 3 knobs for raising and lowering allows the iPad to be positioned at multiple levels. You can spin the iPad to make it go from horizontal to vertical easily. Also, it has a hinge to allow the iPad to point towards the floor too. Great buy.
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ipad pro 11 Inch (2020 Model)
(added 4/30/20)
I have long been an iPad fan. From my first iPad (iPad 2) to the current one, there is no other device that has allowed me to be as creative as I can be. That said, when the newest iPad came out (iPad Pro 2020 version) I knew I wanted to explore getting a new one. My last iPad, the iPad Pro 9.7 inch was approaching 4 years old. In my experience, getting a new one every 4 years is completely justified seeing the amount of time I use one. All my videos, all my Comic Life creations, all my animated GIFs are made on an iPad.
The newest model is amazing. As you can see from the picture to the right, it is not much larger than the 9.7 inch pro (the iPad on the right is the 9.7 inch). The bezel (the border around the outside) is much smaller allowing more of the tablet space to be used. I chose the 11 inch version (There's also a 12.9 inch version which my son has which has the screen size of a small laptop). Keep in mind that with any brand new Apple device, there will be a few new things to get used to... 1. There is a new type of charger that will only work with this new iPad line - USB-C. 2. There is no longer a headphone jack which means that if you want to listen to music you'll either have to get an adapter for headphones, or use bluetooth enabled headphones. See below for picture of each... |
What I love so most about Apple devices is the way they make it so easy to set up a device. I regularly back up my devices to iCloud. When I was setting this new iPad up, I had the choice to either set up as a new device, or choose a backup from another device. I chose to backup from the iPad 9.7 inch which I was using. In about 1 hour, I had EVERYTHING that was on the 9.7 inch on my new iPad Pro 11 inch. I mean everything. All my Comic Life files, all my photos, all my apps, all my music, all my iMovie projects. Talk about easy and well worth the money I spent. Apple products...they just work.
Mpow H7 Bluetooth Headphones
(Added 4/30/20)
First off, I never buy headphones. They have never been something that I collect or even think about collecting. I usually use the headphones that come with my iPhone or iPod and I'm good with that. When I purchased my new iPad (above) there was no headphone jack. I regularly make videos and listen to music so I knew I had to get something. I bought the headphone adapter for the iPad (which was $8) on the Apple website. Knowing I wouldn't be able to charge my iPad and listen to music at the same time (the adapter I bought and the charger use the same port) I decided to search for some headphones on Amazon.
My son has a set to Beats headphones which are expensive. I didn't want to pay that much. This pair that came up was official "Amazon's Choice". After reading the reviews I decided to give them a try. After all, they are only $25. But I was thinking, how good could a $25 pair of Bluetooth headphones be? Well, they are good, Very good. Super easy to pair and they fit perfectly. The sound is as good, if not better, than my iPhone headphones AND they cancel out the outside noise very well. They also include a small microphone on the unit itself providing adequate microphone usage. In addition, they come with a cord that has a 1/8" headphone jack that you can plug in to your compatible device if you desire. Click on the link to the left to go to Amazon.com to check them out. |
Play Impossible Game Ball
(added 11/28/19)
This product is definitely not new. It's been out now for a couple of years. Here is a description form their website...
The Play Impossible Gameball is an active game system that gets you moving, laughing, and showing off your skills with a smart ball that connects to your favorite iOS device, Apple TV or select Android devices. The free Gameball app comes loaded with single player and party games bringing people of all ages together with fun and challenging movement based games built on the power of play. Connect, compete and win Instantly connect to your iPhone, iPod, iPad or Apple TV using Bluetooth™ and then challenge yourself and your friends in games that emphasize hand-eye coordination, agility and creative thinking! Single player games include Impossible, a platformer that begins easy and gets progressively harder with ever-increasing heights, RPM’s and airtime challenges to test your ball skills. |
Unruly Splats
(added 2/19/19)
UPDATE (6/24/19): I WON THE GRANT!!!
30 SPLAT TILES READY FOR NEXT SCHOOL YEAR...
30 SPLAT TILES READY FOR NEXT SCHOOL YEAR...
I first learned of Unruly Splats when someone from our school district emailed me to let me know that...
1. What they were 2. Our district has grants available for projects just like this So I explored them and was like, HELLO!!! Coding!? Movement!? iPads!? Yeah, right up my alley. As of this writing I am impatiently waiting to hear if the grant I wrote for 30 of them will be approved. I do have 2 that I've been playing around with and I have to say, they are very well made and super easy to use. Below is a short video explaining what they look like and how fun they are. Click on the button to go directly to their website. |
Scotch Thermal Laminator
(added 7/10/18)
After hearing about home laminators for a couple years now, I decided to take the plunge and but one myself. In talking with a few people on Twitter I decided to go with the "Scotch Thermal Laminator" from Walmart ($18). First off, $18!?!? I was skeptical that something so cheap would work so well. Well, it does. The one I purchased came with various sized laminating pouches. I purchased an additional 50 laminating pouches at Walmart for $12. After that I purchased 100 pouches off Amazon for $12. Helpful tip: If you want to laminate paper, go with 5 MIL thickness. If you want the same thickness, print on cardstock then laminate with 3 MIL thickness.
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Dinofire Wireless Presenter Remote Control
(added 5/20/18)
I stumbled across this remote control on Amazon. I had a remote control for my slideshows (See review of one below), but I didn't like the "feel" of it. No easy way to have it handy when I needed it. Enter the Dinofire Wireless Presenter. Not only does this remote do everything...
-Advance Slide Forward
-Go Back To Previous Slide
-Laser Pointer (Which Can Be Seen From 50 Feet Away)
-Volume Control
-Pen Style Clip So You Can Wear It Like A Pen On Your Shirt
...but here's the best part...it was $12. FAR LESS than the one I reviewed below. Watch the video to see how easy it is to use.
-Advance Slide Forward
-Go Back To Previous Slide
-Laser Pointer (Which Can Be Seen From 50 Feet Away)
-Volume Control
-Pen Style Clip So You Can Wear It Like A Pen On Your Shirt
...but here's the best part...it was $12. FAR LESS than the one I reviewed below. Watch the video to see how easy it is to use.
Epson Ecotank Printer
(added 2/2/18)
I'll tell you right off, I hate buying printers. What I hate the most is this...Do I buy a cheap printer because of the price and then pay through the nose for ink? Or, do I pay a bunch for a printer hoping the ink lasts for a long time? After seeing this printer advertised as a great affordable printer whose ink lasts for up to 2 years I was curious. I purchased one of these in May of 2016 for my son for college (Almost 2 years). We have yet to add ink. I'm not kidding. This printer is so good, I purchased one to use for school too. If you ever do need ink, they come in convenient bottles that are easy to use. It also uses WIFI printing ability (See my review of another printer that uses WIFI printing below on this page).
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Targus Wireless USB Multimedia Presentation Remote
(Added 2/2/18)
Our district recently switched from MacBooks to HP laptops. The previous MacBook that I was using had an infrared sensor that worked flawlessly with the remote that came with my Apple TV. I was able to advance slides on PowerPoint, increase of decrease the volume of videos, and start and stop movies.
Therefore, I needed a remote that could do most of that with the new PC I was given. After some research and recommendations from people on Twitter, I bought this Targus Remote. Two words: It's Awesome. This one also comes with a laser pointer built in which has become very useful in class. Great product that also works with MacBooks operating both Keynote and Powerpoint. Very slick. |
Top 5 Tech Devices That Have Transformed My Teaching
(added 8/16/17)
Ion Block Rocker
(added 10/10/16)
After hearing about this product for a couple of years I decided to purchase one after being forced to teach outside due to the book fair being in the gym. Watch the video below. A great product!
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epson 570 Ultralite ultra short throw projector
(added 3/27/16)
I have been using a projector in Physical Education classes for the past 6 years. Over the years I have used many different kinds of projectors (See below for a review of one I purchased earlier this year). Out of all the projectors I have used, I have to say the one you see to your left is the best one out there. If you teach in a small gym or would like to save some floor space, take a look at the video below.
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Etekcity Wireless Bluetooth 4.0 Receiver
(added 2/19/16)
I have been using Bluetooth technology for the past 3 years in class. I connect my iPod via Bluetooth to my stereo system. (See video on the bottom of this page to see how I connect to my stereo system). From my iPod, I can play any of my music (2000+ songs) while walking around the gym. The device you see to the left is awesome. Not only does it work from anywhere in my gym, but with the newest technology (Bluetooth 4.0), my battery last twice as long as opposed to using a Bluetooth 2.0 adapter (Like the one I reviewed below). Oh, did I mention it was only $20 on Amazon? Awesome.
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benq short throw projector
(added 10/4/15)
Back in August I purchased this projector to use in my gym. I needed a short throw projector because my gym is relatively small. The closer I can get the projector to the wall, the better. After researching several projectors online I came across this one on Amazon. After using it now for over a month I have to say I am very impressed with it. Click on the video below to see more.
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WIFI DIRECT PRINTING
(ADDED 10/4/15)
So what is "Wifi Direct Printing"? Isn't it the same thing a "Wifi Printing"? Yes, and, no. You see, with "Wifi Printing" your device and printer must be connected to the same Wifi network in order to work. That involves connecting to the internet. With "Wifi Direct Printing" you do not need the internet. The printer transmits a Wifi-like signal that your device (iPad/iPhone) detects as a Wifi signal and the two devices are connected directly. Thus, no need to depend on the internet in order to print. Watch the video below to learn more...
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interactive health technologies
(added 2/16/15)
I had the pleasure of attending two IHT sessions at the SHAPE Eastern District Convention in Springfield, Massachusetts in early February, 2015. The first session gave an overview of the program. The second session gave participants the opportunity to wear the heart rate monitor and see the actual heart rate results across several fitness activities. If I was able to order a program that tracks students heart rates, this would be the program. Teachers have the ability to collect data and email student's results to each student, and to their parents. A great way to see the effectiveness of your program based on real numbers based on student's heart rates. The whole thing is just awesome!!! Click on the button to go to the IHT website for more information.
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fitstep pro pedometers by gopher
(added 2/15/15)
First off, thank you to Mike Graham and Ben Pirillo for their help with this product review. I cannot tell you how impressed I am with this pedometer and the technology. Most pedometers count steps, calories burned, and measure MVPA (Moderate To Vigorous Physical Activity). But what makes this pedometer unique is its ability to get uploaded to a computer database for each student. Included with this pedometer (if you buy a class pack) is the docking station that connects to your computer via USB. One at a time, students put their pedometer in the dock and within 2 seconds (I'm not exaggerating here) all data from that pedometer gets uploaded to the database on your computer. A whole class (depending on size) can do this in a couple of minutes. I LOVE THESE PEDOMETERS. Data collected can be used to chart student's activity time in class, or be able to let a teacher know that they can maybe do a little less talking (I think you know what I mean here).
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swivl
(added 10/5/14)
A big "THANK YOU" to Collin Brooks for letting me know of this device. I asked Collin to write up a review and here it is:
"The Swivl is an amazing tool for a physical education specialist. It is a very versatile robotic videoing accessory that follows and records an individual using their mobile device. The Swivl works by utilizing Bluetooth technology and can be used to help analyze and reflect on your own teaching practices. The Swivl application also allows you to record presentations and embed slides from a Keynote or PowerPoint presentation into the recording. This is great for digital presentations. Below is video demonstration I created that shows the range of the Swivl and its features." |
TV armor flat screen tv protective case
(added 9/21/14)
This is not really a P.E. device but it does protect one. I found out about this one from someone on Twitter. It is a protective shield for your flat screen TV. When you order one (I ordered from Amazon), you need to find out your TV size first. The protector comes in a large box that was packed very nicely. It attaches to the TV by way of velcro straps that go around the back of the TV. It took me about 5 minutes to attach it. I have to say, it looks awesome. I no longer have to worry about a stray hula hoop or basketball damaging the TV in the gym. When it's on, you can hardly see it. Click on the link to go to the TV Armor website.
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iographer ipad case
(added 6/20/14)

I use my iPad all the time to record students performing skills, making skill based movies that students can follow along to, and various other movie related school projects. The iOgrapher iPad case that I have is very cool. First, let me say that it does not come with everything you see here. The light, microphone, and zoom lens are separate. At the bottom of the case there is a threaded opening to attach to a tripod. And as you can see on the case itself, there are slots to attach a whole host of movie making devices. Very easy to put your iPad into the case, and very easy to get out. They make cases for the iPad mini as well as the iPhone too. Click on the link below to go to their website.
ipod touch 5th generation
(added 1/26/14)

I have to say, a while back I reviewed the iPod Nano 7th generation (See below). At the time, it was my favorite way to play music in class. I have since changed my mind. The newest iPod Touch is absolutely incredible. When I pair it with my Logitech Bluetooth Receiver (Again, see below) I have all my music in my hands. Instead of running back and forth to change CDs or using a remote control to change tracks, I have all my music in my hands. Also, you can use apps in class like "Scoreboard HD", "Team Shake", or "Spin It" (See P.E. & Health Apps section on this website for more info on these apps). Make sure you get either the 32 GB or 64 GB model as the 16 GB model does not have a rear facing camera. Very portable and super powerful device!!!
Polar GoFit Heart Rate Module
and gofit app
(added 11/18/13)

First, let me a say big "Thank You" to the kind folks at Polar for their help with this review. Right out of the box this looks like any other heart rate monitor. But it is not! Here is a description from the Polar Web Site:
"Polar GoFit app is an easy way to follow your students' heart rates online during a PE lesson. You can define a certain target zone for each lesson and see whether your students achieve the target. During the lesson you can guide them to stay within the correct zone and see their accumulated time within each zone. You can view this data for individual students or collectively from the entire class. The app allows you to alter the structure of your lesson in response to instant feedback from your students.
It's an easy and fun way for students to learn about the health benefits on staying in different target heart rate zones. The students can collect badges and motivate one another, giving a new dimension to their activity.
You can see summary data after the lesson and compare all ongoing courses you have. The data is saved automatically to polargofit.com for later analysis and evaluation.
All you need is an iPad with the Polar GoFit app, an Internet connection, a user account to polargofit.com web service and H7 Bluetooth Smart heart rate sensors for the students."
I have to say, this technology is amazing. Having my students' heart rates right on my iPad is awesome. I highly recommend this product. Below is the app icon on the app store. Click on the button below to go to the Polar Website to see a short video and more about this great product. Go get it!
"Polar GoFit app is an easy way to follow your students' heart rates online during a PE lesson. You can define a certain target zone for each lesson and see whether your students achieve the target. During the lesson you can guide them to stay within the correct zone and see their accumulated time within each zone. You can view this data for individual students or collectively from the entire class. The app allows you to alter the structure of your lesson in response to instant feedback from your students.
It's an easy and fun way for students to learn about the health benefits on staying in different target heart rate zones. The students can collect badges and motivate one another, giving a new dimension to their activity.
You can see summary data after the lesson and compare all ongoing courses you have. The data is saved automatically to polargofit.com for later analysis and evaluation.
All you need is an iPad with the Polar GoFit app, an Internet connection, a user account to polargofit.com web service and H7 Bluetooth Smart heart rate sensors for the students."
I have to say, this technology is amazing. Having my students' heart rates right on my iPad is awesome. I highly recommend this product. Below is the app icon on the app store. Click on the button below to go to the Polar Website to see a short video and more about this great product. Go get it!
USB MICROPHONE
(added 10/26/13)

Although not a true "P.E. Device" that you use in class, this can definitely be used to create audio recordings that students can exercise along to as warmups and fitness activities. I use the program called "Garageband" on the Mac computer. The microphone you see to your left is great and priced at $40 on Amazon, the price was right (CAD Studio Condenser Microphone). Click below to "hear" some of the audio creations I've created.
walk 4 life 3d pedometer
(Added 9/4/13)

At first glance this pedometer looks like any other one out on the market. It has the same functions like step count, distance covered, and calories burned. The difference with this pedometer is that it has an accelerometer inside of it. Read this description from the company: "The "3D Sensor" allows for 360 degrees of motion giving the unit freedom to be positioned anywhere accurately recording for all body shapes and users, making it nearly 100% accurate". I placed the pedometer in my pocket and went off to play some tennis. After 2 hours it did indeed track all of my steps!!! I'm very impressed with the technology. To find out more info or to buy one of your own, go to the Walk4Life website by clicking the button below.
ipad to vga adapter
(added 7/18/13)

If you want to connect your iPad to a projector and you do not have an Apple TV (see below), then you need this adapter. The one on the top is for the older iPads with the 30 pin connector. The one below is for the new iPads with the smaller flash connector. Again, this is for a VGA projector. If you have a projector with an HDMI input (the newer kind), this will not work.
sportime pulse bar
(added 7/18/13)

This nifty little device is held like a handlebar of a bike. The sensor reads your pulse and it is then displayed on the readout. Simple and easy. I use this as a station during my Jump Rope For Heart event to teach about heart rate. Is it 100% accurate? No. Is it close? Yes. My kids love to see if they can get "into the zone". I bought this one through Sportime:https://store.schoolspecialty.com/OA_HTML/ibeCCtpItmDspRte.jsp?item=2014773&minisite=10206
Apple TV
(added 2/20/13)

Connect your Apple TV up to your projector (see below) and have the ability to wirelessly stream anything from your Ipad or 5th Generation Ipod Touch through the projector to a screen. Obviously works on regular TVs too to do the same thing. In order for this to work, you must have both devices (EX: Apple TV & Ipad) connected to the same wifi network. (Note: If you have an older VGA projector and not an HDMI projector, you will need an additional adapter. This is reviewed below.)
Kanex VGA/HDMI Adapter
(added 2/20/13)

This device is needed if you want to connect your Apple TV to a VGA projector.
Projector
(added 12/23/12)

An essential part of any PE program. I didn't name any specific projector here because there are so many that would work. Connect your computer or Ipad to the projector (A discussion for another time) and play Just Dance Videos from Youtube for whole class warm-ups, or show students videos of a new sport and how it's supposed to "look" before the practice to play it. Be sure to connect the projector to an audio system as most projectors are not loud enough.
Talk Block
(added 11/8/12)

I came across these while looking through an elementary catalog (Not sure which one). You are able to record your voice (up to 30 seconds) and with the push on a button, it plays back what you just said!!! Great for station work and for students who need verbal reminders to stay on task. When a student gets off task I simply say, "Touch The Talk Block And Listen!!!". You can even pop off the top plastic cover and insert an index card, picture, or whatever you want (See the "N" card at the left). I put a card with numbers 1-5 on them and then give each student a die to roll. I am number "6". Students roll the die, run to the talk block and perform the exercise that I pre-recorded. If a student rolls a "6", they run to me and I roll the "Make Dice" app (see app section for that description). I love technology!!! Price is @$60 for 5 of them. Well worth it seeing you can customize them over and over again. Each takes 3 AAA batteries.
Ipod Nano 7th Generation
(added 11/8/12)

I've had iPods since they first came out over 10 years ago. This little guy is probably my favorite. First, it stores 16 GB of music for a mere $150. Not bad seeing that other ipod models like the ipod touch 8 GB start at $180. If you want nothing but a music player that can also play podcasts, iTunes U content, and movies, then this is the iPod for you. The other thing this model has that previous iPod Nano models do not is Bluetooth technology. Sync this up to the Bluetooth receiver below and you have music in your hands all class long. I wear mine around my neck with a lanyard so it's easy to operate. You will need a rubber silicone case to protect it. I bought one on amazon.com for $4.
Logitech Bluetooth Receiver
(added 11/8/12)

Have an newer iphone, ipad, or ipod touch? Then this device is one you need. It enables you to have the music in your hand (by holding the iphone, ipad, or ipod touch) and then pick the
song(s) you want instead of holding a remote control and aiming it at the CD / Ipod player. All my music in the palm of my hand!!! Very cool device. It connects via bluetooth (which takes seconds) and connects to any powered speakers. I can walk around in my gym anywhere (30 to 40 feet away from the receiver) and it still works. This is the same concept as airplay from Apple at about 1/2 the price. Bought mine at Radio Shack for $40. Also available online through Amazon.com You will need a set of powered speakers to plug this into. Click on the button below to go to Logitech's web site.
song(s) you want instead of holding a remote control and aiming it at the CD / Ipod player. All my music in the palm of my hand!!! Very cool device. It connects via bluetooth (which takes seconds) and connects to any powered speakers. I can walk around in my gym anywhere (30 to 40 feet away from the receiver) and it still works. This is the same concept as airplay from Apple at about 1/2 the price. Bought mine at Radio Shack for $40. Also available online through Amazon.com You will need a set of powered speakers to plug this into. Click on the button below to go to Logitech's web site.
Satechi Bluetooth Remote Control
(added 8/31/12)

Just purchased this for my iPad 2 so I could control music that is on my iPad. First, this remote is small. 3.5 inches long and 1.25 inches wide. Small, but powerful!!! You must link it via bluetooth to your ipad (Instructions are included). It has a good range (Around 30 feet which is good for most gyms). Can be used even if you don't point directly at the ipad. I even used it in my condo where I went in another room and was able to control the ipad through and around walls. Priced around $45 but well worth the money. Buttons control play/pause, volume up/down, track up/down. It will even control video as well. Click on the button below to go to Satechi's web site for more information.