New technology in the classroom

Ipads in the classroom...

Some classrooms are under the impression that students can use iPads in the classroom and it can be a good thing. One school is making students purchase iPads for the classroom. They are using the iPads for their textbooks and other school related task.

The Bad...

Obviously the bad in having students purchase iPads is that they are expensive. There will always be some students who struggle to find the funds to have a luxury like this. The other bad is that when you give students with in the ages of 9 and 10 the temptation of messaging others or playing games while school is in session.

The Good...

The first thing to notice is that these students do not have to buy text books. Instead the books they use are able to be downloaded to their iPads. I find this to be beneficial because of all of the complaints of students carrying heavy textbooks. Another important factor is that students are so involved with technology and have been raised with smartphones, HD TV, and computers in their households. The biggest benefit is that students should feel comfortable with the technology and staying acclimated with what they already know. The fact that the books are on the iPads is huge. This means that when the curriculum is changed, it is much easier to get newer versions of books or a different book altogether. It also means students can take quizzes and play games related to the material covered that day in the classroom.

My opinion...

I am not a huge fan of having a ton of technology in the classroom for fear that someone isn't going to be able to use it. In this case I support it though. If every student is on the same page, they wouldn't need the instruction from me to get help, they can simply ask their neighbors. By having iPads it also eliminates two primary excuses from the classroom. The first one being I forgot my homework, this is no longer a problem if they can submit in through their iPads. The second excuse of I forgot my book. Even though there is the temptation to be distracted, students would be more distracted by not having assignments or a textbook too. Times are changing, and I am glad that the classroom is keep up with it.