The aesthetics of this product are very well thought out; it looks lovely to me. However, not everything is about looks. I cannot say for sure whether I approve or disapprove of this tablet because I have yet to use one, I am withholding judgment until then.
Although I do not have an opinion about the use of this product, I do believe that it might revolutionize schools and classrooms. Having the technology of this sort, where books and other print is available at your fingertips, can allow for lessons to be more engaging. Students can look up newspaper articles and other resources more easily in the classroom. This can enable a teacher to incorporate current events into the curriculum, which is something I feel all individuals should be informed about. I'm sure that other individuals will be able to think of more uses for an iPad within a classroom and that will only add to the potential of this becoming an educational tool.
There are many possible ideas that sound fantastic. However, I cannot help but wonder how will this all work out? How can a school safely incorporate such technology into their classrooms? How will the schools monitor the applications and functions of these iPads? Will they block certain websites like they do on library computers? Is that even a possibility on an iPad?
On paper the use on an iPad to enrich classroom learning sounds great, but it does not sound as feasible in reality. There are so many school districts that are facing tough budget cutes and multiple states are announcing cutes to education funds. In the current economic situation, how will schools be able to afford Apple iPads when they are starting at $499 each (http://www.apple.com/ipad/)?
Don't get me wrong; I am completely open to the idea of using an iPad in my future classroom. I just want to make sure that I have thoroughly researched this product and have developed a way to appropriately utilize the iPad so as to enhance the curriculum rather than take over the curriculum. I do not doubt that this product will begin to make its way into classrooms across America in the near future because this is a remarkable tool that schools can take advantage of. However, I am still skeptical as to the true opportunity that the Apple iPad presents to myself as an educator.
