Are iPads Really Helping to Improve Education?
There appears to be no evidence as yet that indicates students learn better while using the iPad. While there are many advocates of the device, there are also a number of educators who point to its downfalls.
Critics point to the significant cost of equipping a classroom with them or supplying the entire student body with one. Then there are the ongoing costs of maintaining networks and upgrading hardware and software. Some schools have ‘bring your own device’ policies, which then shift the financial burden to students and their families, who may not be able to afford them. Some schools may also try to mitigate the costs of implementing the technology by diverting funding away from other proven beneficial programs such as music or arts.
There is no denying the enthusiasm of students towards iPads in the classroom. iPads are highly interactive and studying a subject can be more stimulating when preparing a PowerPoint presentation or video clip rather than a written essay. However enthusiasm does not necessarily lead to learning. Students may spend more time and effort on presenting the topic rather than researching it. Electronic texts also often do not allow for highlighting or making notes and are harder to browse than a written copy. And although the capabilities of iPads are vast, the actual materials developed for them are still limited to what’s on the market. Plus, as with any technology, the iPad will eventually lose its novelty for students and teachers will still need to engage their pupils.
The iPad has made it easier than ever to access information, but it also offers quick access to games, email and websites that distract students from their work. A study undertaken in Canada found that students who completed tasks on their laptops performed significantly worse than those students who completed them using paper and pencil. Surprisingly, the effect even reached to students sitting near laptop users. The technology can also lead to students being exposed to inappropriate materials online.
Furthermore, teachers need to constantly maintain their computer skills, taking time away from being able to train in their subject area.
Education has seen new technological crazes come and go and only time will tell whether the iPad will be a success story or just another classroom fad.
