Benefits And Drawbacks Of Ipads In The Classroom
Wed 18 May, 2016
Benefits and drawbacks of iPads in the classroom
It is becoming more popular for schools to introduce the 1-1 initiative, one iPad for every person, to encourage the use of technology in the classrooms. iPads are an exciting way to use technology in the classroom, and many teachers don’t realise the many applications it can have. At the same time, it’s important to be aware of the drawbacks as well to make sure you make the most out of the technology.
Benefits
- Easier feedback and class participation
iPads allow for a smoother transmission of materials between teachers and students. Instead of stacks of papers, which require time and resources, you can exchange work digitally. This reduces the amount of time spent grading papers. There are also many apps that run electronic quizzes and regulate submissions. Some apps score quizzes and post the results themselves, and submission apps allow teachers to see which students have submitted assignments and watch their progress in their work.
- Better organisation
You don’t have to worry as much about students losing paperwork or hand outs as it is available on their iPads at all times, especially helpful for disorganised students.
- Good for research and group work
iPads are very helpful for student research. Students can collect and organise research electronically and can collaborate on shared documents and apps, both in the classroom and at home.
- Free books online
Many free books are available online, saving students and teachers money, and with an electronic book you don’t have to worry about them getting lost or worn. Also, many electronic books and files have marking features which use electronic pens and text that allow students to annotate digitally. This means that students’ annotations are electronic and all in one place, in often a much neater format.
- Wealth of resources
iPads open up a huge range of resources and apps for any type of activity or subject, whether it is an app, online tutorials, videos, etc.
Disadvantages
- No cohesive system
Just like non-digital teaching there is no ideal way or singular resource that incorporates all aspects of teaching on an iPad. It normally requires multiple apps and for some this creates just as much work as doing it the traditional way.
- Wifi issues
The use of iPads in classrooms relies on the wifi speed at the school. The more devices, the slower the wifi, which can be disruptive to lessons. However, this is an use that we can help fix with our wifi solutions.
- Distraction
iPads are a great tool for learning but they can also be distracting, making it easy for students to play games or message their friends.
- Technology for the sake of it
You don’t need to rush into using technology if you feel like you are an effective teacher without it, and you shouldn’t start using it without a plan. Make sure you learn about the different apps and tools available and consider how an iPad can best enhance your teaching
Our iPad solution specialists are ready to give you clear, straightforward advice about how best to deploy iPads in your school. Call us today on 0845 094 8492 and we’ll be happy to answer your questions.