Increased Test Scores
Publisher Houghton Mifflin Harcourt tested an interactive, digital version of an Algebra 1 textbook for Apple’s iPad in California’s Riverside Unified School District. Students who used the iPad version scored 20 percent higher on standardized tests versus students who learned with traditional textbooks.
Lower costs than textbooks
On a tablet, eTextbooks can be updated instantly to get new editions or information. Schools will not have to constantly purchase new hardware, software, or new physical copies of textbooks. FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski and Secretary of Education Arne Duncan said that “too many students are using books that are 7-10 years old with outdated material.” Tablets are especially beneficial for subjects that constantly change, such as biology or computer science.
Lighter Backpacks=Healthier Backs
Seeing a child carrying a backpack that is their size is ridiculous. Not only is it bad for their backs and proper alignment during their own developmental years, It is also very demotivating having to carry it around. In contrast a tablet is lightweight, holds enough information for their entire K-12 Education but it also is more likely to engage them to learn new materials.
Increase Student Engagement
81% of K-12 teachers believe that “tablets enrich classroom education.” The survey of technology in the classroom by the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) also concluded that 77% of teachers found technology to “increase student motivation to learn.”
Save Time Grading & Easily Assess Students
An educators time should be spent developing their lessons to connect with their students and make a difference. Spending time grading and assessing is not the most productive use of their time. With digital technology these tasks now take minutes rather than hours.