Bring Us to the Digital Age with iPads

IPads+provide+the+best+option+for+student+devices%2C+as+they+have+the+most+value+and+versatility+for+the+educational+purposes.

Lauren Pappert

IPads provide the best option for student devices, as they have the most value and versatility for the educational purposes.

Staff Editorial

Administration is considering the introduction of a one to one technology policy for the students. One to one is the practice of every student having a piece of technology for schoolwork. If the one to one policy is enforced, we should base the decision on the quality of the technology we are receiving, and not purely off of cost.

The best option would be through the form of the iPad. An iPad provides the most positives out of any other piece of technology.

While computers are large and clunky, an iPad sports a sleek and slim design that can easily fit in a book bag. The portability of the iPad is much better and can be easily transported anywhere.

IPads provide more compatibility than any other form of technology. They connect easily with Bluetooth for information presentations. They also have the Airdrop feature which allows users to share information and documents with others nearby or to a saved contact. IPads would increase the ability to communicate, especially between students and teachers. With iPads, students are more likely to check their e-mail and remain informed because it is in an application and easily accessible.

IPads also have strong battery life. Most iPad batteries last 10 hours, which is even with other leading computers.

Another positive of the iPads is their competitive pricing. Prices for iPads are consistent with the prices of their competing levels of laptops and other tablets. IPads also could be insured with Apple Care. Apple Care would pay for repairs and replacements for issues that arise with a student’s iPad.

A big issue with products other than Apple is the lack of versatility. Chromebooks and other similar products are limited to only the google applications. Not only is this an issue with versatility and providing different options for students, but if you are enrolled in a college course, you have to use Microsoft Word.

If the device assigned to all students were limited to only google applications, then students would have to have another device to complete assignments in their college classes that use Microsoft software. This makes the purchase of the school distributed device a waste.

IPads provide the most choices of applications for quality educational use and learning growth. Most students are always already acquainted with Apple products and are comfortable with the user-interface, making the transition smooth and easy. Many teachers are also acquainted with Apple Products, allowing them to troubleshoot with students who are having issues using their device.

Chromebooks also break easily and have poor longevity. IPads have much better longevity and much more durable. The iPad can also be paired with an Apple Pencil which would allow students to take notes and draw sketches on their iPads, and cutting out wasted paper.

All in all, an iPad is the best choice for a student device. They are cost-efficient, durable, portable, and very versatile. If the district decides to go to the one to one policy the iPad should be the chosen device.