rhythmbox refusing to recognise ipod

I have an iPod shuffle (2nd Gen, Blue 1GB). The first time I connected it to my computer it recognised it and allowed me to play the songs stored on it through rhythmbox. Since then every time I connect the iPod to the computer it pops up the screen asking me whether I want to open it in rhythmbox but refuses to do so. I have tried restarting the computer, multiply ejecting and then reattaching the iPod but nothing happens except as listed above. I do not wish to alter the songs on the iPod, but would like to be able to play them. The only thing that rhythmbox shows me is an "import error" with the listing of where the iPod is mounted. Is there anything that I can do to remedy this situation?