The idea of technology in classrooms is one that has thrilled educators for years. Duke University gave iPods to students in 2004, Abilene Christian University gave iPhones to incoming freshmen in 2008 and now Faulkner University is introducing a program that will give every student an iPad.
Technology is quickly making its way into education and I think that we, as college students, should learn to thrive with technology rather than sitting by and watching others innovate as we fall behind.
Faulkner introduced its new program, which will provide each student with an iPad, just days after officials at Apple Inc., announced the iBooks 2 electronic textbook plan.
“We want our students to enter the workforce prepared to meet the expanding demands of technology, and the use of the iPads, apps and e-texts are just a few of the tools in our Eagle iAdvantage technology initiative,” said Dr. Billy D. Hilyer, Faulkner University president.
According to Ben Kissinger, a former Harding student who now attends Faulkner, the student body at Faulkner responded positively to the announcement. Kissinger said the university plans to adopt many iBooks and to use applications for students to turn in assignments.
“Faulkner was definitely in need of a technology upgrade,” Kissinger said. “The student body here, unlike Harding, is not as iPhone-friendly … so it will be a much-needed transition for the student body for sure.”
The iBooks are expected to save students hundreds of dollars on textbooks. The price of the iPad, which is about $500, will be tacked on to initial tuition costs. Electronic textbooks will cost about $15 apiece.
Harding officials in the information systems and technology department, however, stand firm in their decision not to hand out technology to students.
Some Harding officials believe that no significant educational benefits can be offered through iPads yet, although many educators disagree.
Researchers at ACU concluded that the iPad increases student engagement, enables collaborative learning, improves student technology competency and reduces faculty back-end effort. Also, a technology program at Freed-Hardeman University, started in 2008, has been successful in adapting and upgrading to keep up with new trends in emerging technology. FHU will provide Fall 2012 freshmen with iPads.
I respect Harding’s decision in this situation but I can’t help but disagree. In a world dominated by the latest technology, Harding needs to keep up if it wants to stay relevant.
