Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Ellen Graves - Will iPads Replace Traditional Textbooks?



Will iPads Replace Traditional Textbooks?
With the release of the iPad 2 in March, many people are questioning whether the need for traditional textbooks in the classroom is necessary. Several schools have already implemented an iPad policy in the classroom.
More people are realizing the benefits of replacing traditional textbooks with iPads. For many, the convenience the iPad offers is unmatched by textbooks. Instead of carrying around several bulky books, the iPad is a sleek, thin alternative that can hold thousands of books. Also, the interactive apps available provide another learning tool for students in the classroom. The iPad has 5,400 educational apps available with almost 1,000 that are free. Students are even able to take notes and highlight with an iPad. The iPad allows multiple platforms for the student to learn the subject.
College students are often faced with extremely high textbook costs. For only one semester, textbooks can cost up to 500 dollars. The iPad costs 500 dollars but this is a one time payment. Generally, some textbooks can be found cheaper for the iPad and the variety of textbooks being offered is growing. In the long run, buying an iPad for textbooks could be cheaper and save the student money. School districts can save money on paper and supplies by opting to use the iPad in the classroom.
IPads also offer a more eco-friendly version of textbooks. Millions of trees are used each year to provide paper for textbooks across America. The iPad eliminates the need for paper and in the process helps the environment. Ole Miss literature professor Dr. Adetayo Alabi states, “I think iPads are good for the environment. It would be a lot easier for students to get textbooks on the iPad. It would save time and space.”

Read the full article at www.jour.blogspot.com

Other resource: A poll option for the reader asking "Should the iPad replace traditional textbooks?"

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