Are iPads in the Classroom Doing More Harm Than Good?

More and more schools are handing out tablets, such as iPads to students to help improve the learning process in today's age where technology is king. However, is this expensive new learning aid truly helpful in the educational setting? Recently, Los Angeles distributed iPads to 50,000 students in the public school system as part of a pilot for a $1 billion citywide initiative. The L.A. Unified School District expressed financial concern over the $1-billion plan to give an iPad to every Los Angeles student and teacher. According to the district, the tablet plan could prove to be difficult to provide due to finances after about three years based on their calculations.

Aside from financial concerns, there is also concern that the tablets may be misused as more than just a learning tool. In another recent article, the same Los Angeles school system found that high school students were quickly and easily able to "hack" the district-installed security filter, allowing them to access banned websites such as Facebook and YouTube.

While the idea behind integrating technology into the educational process sounds good, the reality is that these tablets can do more harm than good. These tablets allow students to become distracted during class time and concentrating more so on the technology provided to them than the subject matter at hand and could therefore, hinder the learning process.

While some believe that the tablets offer a positive impact on teachers and students, there are still many parents and tax-payers that oppose tablets in school districts, saying that the large sum of money should be spent on other upgrades rather than iPads; more teachers, new school furniture, and updated computer labs were among the many improvements needed on the list.

Do you believe that tablets in the educational setting are doing more harm than good? Should the money spent on tablets be better spent elsewhere?

Classroom Tables with Purpose

Classroom tables are there for very utilitarian purposes and should reflect that, unlike household furniture that is usually chosen at least in part for its decorative properties. When surrounded by objects that remind them of their purpose, students are more equipped and motivated to concentrate on the task at hand and succeed at it.

Consider the following factors in your selection of tables that are geared toward learning and achievement:

Age Appropriate Learning Tables

A group of preschoolers have different needs than high school students when it comes to classroom tables. Knowing the difference can give you a head start on what type of features will work for a particular task. Table tops with rounded edges are safer for young ones, plus low legs will allow more comfort for smaller students.

Importance of Science Lab Tables

Science lab classroom tables should be designed for working with a variety of chemicals. Table tops that are scratch and chemical resistant guarantee longevity. Look to steel or solid wood for dependability, and always use a rubber mat or boots on table legs for sturdiness. Microscopes and other science equipment will work best on a level surface, and many tables have a manual or self-adjusting mechanism.

Computer Tables

Ergonomics is a term that is often used when looking for tables and chairs for computer equipment. Sitting at a classroom computer table for hours in an unnatural position can place strain on muscles and nerves. Tables that are adjustable, sturdy, and placed at the proper height can help students avoid having to hunt for the right angle, as well as eye strain.

There are many types of classroom tables that can aid a student in performing tasks to the best of their ability. Drafting tables that have adjustable tops and convenient drawers or Art/CAD tables with arms for flat screen computers and truss bars for non-tip solutions will keep students from worrying about having a steady, durable surface for work. The purpose of the furniture should be the main focus when selecting the right classroom tables. Height, width, and length are important factors for different age groups and curriculums, but never forget about other factors, as well. A smooth aesthetic appearance and sturdiness will keep students better focused on studies, as well.