Apple iPad – Is This the Future of eLearning?

Have you been craving an Apple iPad? Here's yet another reason to love it: knowledge! Whether you're a college student or a working professional who loves learning, the iPad lends itself to knowledge delivery.

From a purely text-based perspective, the iPad serves up textbooks and eBooks on par with most eReaders on the market. Rather than lugging books back and forth, carry your iPad with you and enjoy anytime access to your books and study guides. With Internet access, the iPad also makes for a more pleasant reading experience than a laptop or PC for text-heavy websites and learning portals.

However, the iPad offers much more than a standard eReader such as the Amazon Kindle. Yes, you can read eBooks and textbooks on both devices but the Kindle goes further with its multimedia capabilities. Imagine watching full motion training videos on a handheld device or participating in course activities via apps. With the iPad, these options are a reality.

One of the most important aspects the iPad offers as far as eLearning goes is its intuitive interface. Trainers and teachers can spend less time teaching the technology needed to access their courses and more time focused on the actual material. The iPad is so easy that even young children are able to pick it up and begin using it. A recent article featured on AdAge.com, How the IPad became Child's Play – and a Learning Tool explored how toddlers are using the iPad.

The iPad has won the hearts and minds of consumers, too. Recent surveys show that amongst college students and general consumers, the iPad tops the list of preferred eReaders. A survey released by Student Monitor showed that the iPad was preferred by 46 percent of surveyed college students while the Kindle was preferred by 38 percent. Widespread adoption and popularity could make the iPad the logical platform for both self-directed learning and supplemental learning. With all of its capabilities, the iPad is the perfect tool for contextual and participative learning. Its portability ensures that reference material, textbooks, and videos are always close at hand.

While the iPad brings dazzling possibilities to the educational arena, it does have a few limitations. For example, the device does not have USB slots or memory card slots nor does it have a built-in camera or phone. As the iPad and e-learning courses developed for the iPad evolve, these limitations will most likely be solved.

The Apple iPad could become more than just a gadget; it could become a full blown learning device.

About CBT Planet:

CBT Planet is a leading provider of computer training products including courses on DVD, online courses, and live remote classes. With a huge selection of titles covering everything from IT certification and business soft skills to Microsoft Office training, CBT Planet offers knowledge delivered to your desktop.