Vancouver Schools Testing iPods for Learning

I was really interested in the article about Vancouver schools using ipods in three third grade classes to test for learning. The school used grant money to cover the expenses of the ipods for the classes. Each student was assigned to an ipod to use for the class, which allowed students who don't have access to technology at home to practice.
With many students already owning or experiencing ipods, there was not a lot of training that had to take place. Students were able to use the ipods to reinforce math drills, play educational games, look up countries that they were learning about, and use applications to assist in individualized instruction. I am not surprised by the outcomes that the article highlighted. Students were more attentive and interested in participating as well as having an improvement in attendance during the class. The instruction became centered around the student instead of the teacher. Students that were more advanced were able to work ahead and complete other games and drills.
With the development of new applications on the ipods and phones, students would be able to access help in various subjects and work at their own pace. Activities and drills can be repeated without students feeling embarrassed about not understanding and 'getting it' the first time.
I like the idea of using new ways to engage students. It makes me wonder would this be possible to do in an entire school? and what type of professional development is out there in this area?