Do we see our kids going to schools with Tablet PC's

Very interesting topic to discuss. People who are closely following the recent trends in tablet PC evolution, might get this question in their mind.

This is not something new in developed countries, various pilot projects were conducted and many schools in these countries are encouraging students in using tablet PC's for accessing text books. In US the Washington think tank had come up with a proposal called "A Kindle in Every Backpack". This is about using eTextbooks in American schools, from KG to high school offered using Kindle or similar electronic devices.

There are many people who believe that education market holds the real potential as a consumer of this kind of technology. Textbook publishers may get into this path very soon. Kids can hold a library in their hand instead of just few text books. The in built applications like text to speech conversion will help kids to listen to the books instead of just reading. These devices use high-resolution display technology with configurable fonts and expected to provide the appearance and readability of printed paper. There are also very interesting other features like taking notes directly onto a page, highlight topics and mark it for future reference.

As a parent if you are worried about your kid carrying backpack with many books may be you can offer a tablet PC and your kid is all set. Of course you can offer this device once the books as such are available in electronic form. One tablet PC and one lunch box is all what your kid takes to the school...

As technology evolves may be kids can take notes as if they are taking it on their books using a stylus, and can share the notes with others. May be schools can conduct exams on these devices. In addition to the existing text books developing new content with audio & video support will improve the learning. Using Innovative Software applications it is quite possible to engage kids while learning which may not be that easy to do in a traditional classroom environment.

It is very interesting to study and explore opportunities in developing countries like India the induction of tablet PC's improve
a) The Quality of education.
- With innovative and interactive content may be this is realizable.
b) Increase the reach.
- If Govt can sponsor one tablet PC at a reduced price to poor families education reach can potentially increase.
c) Are these devices supplementing the traditional mechanisms, or do they have potential in completely replacing the existing mechanisms.
d) The technology side effects ...