Read the following article about tablet computers, and then answer the questions on the opposite page.
Tablets in the Classroom
This is the age of the tablet. These book-sized computers can provide all sorts of opportunities simply by touching a screen. Now the education world is taking a great interest in them. More and more schools are looking forward to the day when all students have their own tablet computer.
Teachers realise that their students must be highly skilled in the use of computers to get good jobs in the future. A few of the many benefits students will experience if they work with a tablet are listed below.
Computer Skills
The world is run by computers and it is important that students become skilled at using them. Having a tablet in the classroom for each student guarantees that they will not suffer any disadvantages if they do not have a computer at home. As well as gaining general computer skills, students can also use fantastic tools that can teach computer programming, which will be of benefit in the future.
Music
Students can write their own music and record their own songs. They can download music history encyclopaedias that provide facts, with interactive songs and music. They can even use special applications to learn how to play an instrument on the tablet without having to buy the real thing.
Geography
For years, teachers have encouraged students to broaden their knowledge of the world through things like pen pal programmes and field trips. With video connections as a standard feature on most tablets, students can interact with a class anywhere in the world. It is an affordable way to see the world without having to leave the classroom.
Writing
Putting words on paper can be a lonely and boring experience for some students. However, instead of writing a book review that only your teacher will read, you can write a blog about the book you are reading, and invite feedback from your classmates. Instant responses and comments can provide motivation.
Direct Communication
Tablets provide an instant and secure connection between parents and teachers. It may be easy for students to lose a handwritten note or assignment, but it is not so easy to lose a tablet. The tablet goes between school and home, so teachers can contact parents and parents can monitor students’ assignments. If students are away from school for any reason, their teacher can keep them up to date.
Eco-friendly
Tablets enable huge savings to be made for the environment because they do not use paper. Imagine how many trees would be saved if students completed 12 years of schooling using a tablet for all their e-books, assignments, projects and studies.