Tablets in K-12 Schools - JR Jackson

Ever since the release of the iPad, computer tablets have become more and more popular across the world. The features and capabilities of tablets has started a debate on whether we should reevaluate the way we educate students in K-12 schools. The idea would be to switch from print textbooks to digital textbooks on tablets. People for the use of tablets claim that they have the support of most teachers and students, citing that they are more convenient and improve test scores. In addition, the cost of a digital textbook is cheaper than the cost of a print textbook. Opponents of tablets believe that tablets are too expensive and distracting for students. It is a lot easier to break a tablet than a text book, and the implications with technology would increase the excuses for students not doing homework. Emerging technology would make heavy investments in current tablets obsolete in years to come.

Personally, I have somewhat of an experience with this debate. The year after I graduated, my high school implemented a tablet program for their students. My brother, who is in the grade below, told me about his experience with the tablet system. He agreed with the fact that they were very distracting and said they were mostly used for his own entertainment. So in the early stages of this tablet use, he believed it was ineffective. With that said, I do believe that it makes so much more sense to carry around a tablet than 5 heavy textbooks. Technology is cheaper than ever and is improving to where we can make tablets more durable. And if the core function of the tablet is to be able to read it like a textbook, should obsolete technology really even be a concern? I think the use of tablets in K-12 systems should be implemented, but only after considering ways to cater to some of the opponents’ valid concerns.