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= iPads in the Classroom =



In the increasingly hi-tech age of the 21st century, technology is becoming progressively more important in the classroom. On a daily basis, students use smartphones, laptops, cameras, and other devices to complete tasks. This frequent use has caused today’s students to become very comfortable using all sorts of new technology. Due to many students’ common understanding of technology, the possibilities of its uses in schools are endless. Incorporating iPads into the classroom sparks many of these new possibilities. The iPad allows students to easily access unlimited amounts of information instantly. This article will discuss what the iPad is including its history, the advantages and disadvantages of using iPads in the classroom, and the future of iPads in schools.
 * Introduction: **

An iPad is a tablet computer that was designed by Apple Inc. This tablet was designed to be used as a platform for audio-visual media, this media includes books, music, movies, web access, presentations, games, and news. This device combines the most desired features of a netbook and iPod touch in one package. The iPad is ultra-thin and does not weigh much at all, it is said to be "light-as-a-feather." This tablet has 10 hours of battery life and has a 9.7 inch LCD-backlit Multi-Touch screen.
 * What is an iPad?: **

**History of iPad:**

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Since 2010 there has been another advance in technology. This advance is the IPad which is now present in many school classrooms. Below is when each version of the IPad was release, as well as what features are on that version of the IPad.=====
 * =====On April 3, 2010, the fist Apple IPad was released. This IPad includes features such as: Apple A4 processor, a 9.7inch “touchscreen display screen, capability to access Cellular networks, plays music, sends/receives emails, browse the web, play games, and GPS navigation software.=====


 * =====On March 11, 2011 the Apple IPad ll was released. The intention of this IPad is to be a platform for audio-visual media, which include books, news, movies, music, presentations, games, and web content. The battery can last up to 10 hours and now has a dual core Apple A5 processor. It also has a 720p rear camera designed for FaceTime video calling.=====


 * =====On March 16, 2012 the Apple IPad lll was released. This IPad has many useful features. The IPad now has Retina display, the Apple A5X chip with a quad-core graphics processor, a 5 megapixel camera, HD 1050p video recording, voice dictation, 4G, and Siri. This is all in addition to the intention of the IPad ll as well.=====


 * =====The latest release of IPads from Apple is the IPad Mini. This is a mini tablet with a 7.9 inch screen. This IPad contains the same features as the regular sized IPad, but just in a smaller form.=====

As we can see, there are many versions available. Who knows what will be the new feature on the next IPad.
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There are many reasons why iPads are beneficial in the classroom. The first reason being, it keeps students engaged. Today's students are growing up in the technology era; students find them easier to use, than computers according to //10 Big Benefits of Using ipads in Schools//. Another reason they are beneficial in the classroom is, they can eliminate textbooks, e-books save both money and heavy book bags. The iPad is also a new way to communicate for students. Teachers can post questions and students can answer them in a less pressured manner. Another way iPads are beneficial are they create a new way to organize work. Students no longer have the options of losing their homework. All documents and assignments are kept in one safe place, on the iPad. A final way, iPads are beneficial in the classroom are they allow sick children at home, to still participate in class, via video chat.
 * The Advantages: **

**The Disadvantages:** There are also multiple disadvantages to using iPads in the classroom. The first being, they are expensive, not every school can afford to buy sets of iPad. Also there is no USB port on iPads, therefore students cannot use their jump drives to transport their work to other devices. Another disadvantage of iPads in the classroom is that you cannot have multiple windows open at one time; therefore you cannot multi task. There is also the possibility that students will become distracted by the use of iPads. They might be tempted to use other apps or search the web. A final disadvantage to having iPads in the classroom is that it is harder to type on. It is harder to type homework assignments or write emails. According to, //17 Pros and Cons of Using Ipads in the Classroom//, students prefer to type on regular keyboards compared to on the iPad. media type="custom" key="24066350" align="right"

= = = Future of iPad in Classroom: = The iPad seems to be a major part of the future classroom. As of right now there are many schools that already are using the iPad’s in the classroom and more and more schools will be going to use iPads. The iPad’s lets students be hands on and keep students engaged. Also as time progresses there will more and more apps that are user friendly that will help students with special needs to be able to be as independent as possible. With this being said iPads have an endless possibility in the future and will be around for the long haul.

= Conclusion: = In conclusion we believe that the iPad will be in the classrooms for many years to come. The iPad has many uses for all students, especially students with disabilities. The uses on the iPad with all of the apps that they have and what you can do with them in the classroom, the opportunities are endless. There are many free apps that can benefit students and enhance their learning. All in all the iPad will be an effective teaching technology that allows students to be hands on and involved with education.

= References: =

Apple Inc. (2013). Apple launches ipad. Retrieved from http://www.apple.com/pr/library/2010/01/27Apple-Launches-iPad.html