At its October 23 media event, Apple wanted to emphasize that its products are the best in class – literally. Before unveiling the latest iPad and iPad mini models, Apple CEO Tim Cook shared some examples of the value the iPad offers in education.
“One of the things that is so rewarding and so amazing to us is how quickly the iPad has been embraced in education,” he said, according to CNET.
Cook discussed the usefulness of iBooks Author, Apple’s textbook creation software, explaining that it allows for embedded mathematical expressions and multi-touch widgets in e-books. He noted that iBooks textbooks are now available for 80 percent of the U.S. high school core curriculum and are used in more than 2,500 schools across the country. Cook emphasized the value of iBooks in helping publishers update their books, as well.
Education Week noted that the high price of iPads is likely holding back adoption of 1-to-1 device programs in schools, despite the slight discount Apple offers. The iPad mini’s lower price point may encourage more schools to adopt tablets. And with iResQ’s 1-to-1 iPad repair program, schools can rest easy knowing that they can fix broken devices in bulk at a reasonable price.