Mlearning Article #8 iPad

“iPad or Netbook?”

Some schools are wondering which is the better choice for them-- iPads or netbooks? There is some confusion over the difference between these devices. Netbooks are lighter, cheaper, less powerful versions of laptops. They use the same applications as laptops, and they have internet access. However, it is difficult to work with audio and video on them. The iPad is different in form, encouraging users to hold it close to them rather than putting it on a surface. This is an important difference, causing people to think of more like their phone-- like an extension of their body rather than a separate device. This could mean that students will look after their iPads and be more careful with them than they would a netbook. Also, with an iPad eye contact is more easily maintained because of the lack of an upright screen. IPads run on an operating system which is specially designed for them, rather trying to run a desktop OS. Netbooks are still reliant on huge software developers, while iPads run apps that were made for mobile devices. These apps take into account factors such as location, battery drain, and screen size. They are creative and quickly developing, while netbooks are somewhat static in comparison. Another thing to take into account is how tactile iPads are. Using your finger rather than a mouse or keyboard can make using the iPad an engaging, direct, and flexible experience. Netbooks offer a more mobile version of what a desktop already does, while the iPad offers new methods of learning. It is a transformation of technology similar to the switch from command line input to a mouse.

I felt like this article read somewhat like an advertisement for Apple, although all of the things he said about the iPad are applicable to almost all tablet devices. I think most of these concepts are applicable to the Kindle Fire or the Samsung Galaxy, for example. I like the idea of a tablet because I feel like it is less of a wall between students and teachers. For one thing, it is easier to see what they are doing! I also like the tactile aspect of the iPads, which I think is particularly important for young learners. I agree with the author that iPads are a better choice for schools than netbooks, but I don't think he was fair about the downsides of iPads. One thing I found myself struggling with when using one in class is trying to get it to a good angle where I can see the screen and type at the same time. Also, I find typing on it slower and more difficult than on a keyboard because of the smaller keys and lack of physical buttons. Using your finger tip can be difficult when trying to draw or do other things that require some finesse. I think a mouse or stylus is better in those situations. I think these things will be worked out in time, but for now I see several downsides to iPads that are somewhat of a concern in a school setting.