Seems to me though, that at least the IDEA of the iPad and its potential in education, is one quite pregnant with possibilities.
This first iteration leaves a lot to be desired, but the very fact that the shortcomings are so obvious bodes well for the appearance of at least some of them in pretty short order (and if not by Apple then somebody else, like Asus or its Taiwanese competitors).
For right now, I choose to look on the bright side and see the great opportunities to make computing a lot more simple and intuitive for a great many more people -- and yes, the iPad has got to become much more of a platform for user creativity and not just a passive viewing/listening device. Otherwise, it's just a very expensive ViewMaster.
Sort of along the lines of this conversation, just wanted to pass along a couple of videos that I find most interesting to view and contemplate:
1. Singapore 2015, produced by the country's economic development agency in March 2007 I believe.
http://www.ida.gov.sg/About%20us/20070903145526.aspx
Given that it took probably 6 months to produce, it's fascinating to think that the conceptualization behind it is probably 3 and half years old now. Some prescient thinking here! I really like the design of the tablets in this piece.
2. What Happens When You Give a Class of 8 year olds iPod Touches?
http://www.l4l.co.uk/?p=835
Best wishes,
Jim Lerman
Kean University
Director, Progressive Science Initiative
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